What is a solar export tariff (SEG) and how does it work?

A solar export tariff (often called SEG in the UK) pays you for the electricity your solar panels export back to the grid. Your export is measured by a compatible export meter (often a smart meter). The rate you earn is set by your chosen supplier and can be fixed or variable, depending on the tariff. If you want to compare current options, use the guide on https://www.energyplus.co.uk/solar/best-solar-export-tariff-rates-uk-this-month.

Who is eligible for a solar export tariff in the UK?

Eligibility typically includes having a qualifying renewable generator (e.g., solar PV) installed at your property, a suitable export meter (commonly a smart meter), and MCS certification (or equivalent evidence accepted by the supplier). Requirements can vary by supplier and tariff, so it’s worth checking the latest eligibility notes when comparing rates: https://www.energyplus.co.uk/solar/best-solar-export-tariff-rates-uk-this-month.

Do I need a smart meter to get paid for solar export?

In most cases, yes—suppliers often require a smart meter (or another approved export meter) to accurately measure exported electricity. Some tariffs may use deemed export in limited situations, but smart metering is the most common route. If you’re unsure what setup you need, the comparison page explains what to look for: https://www.energyplus.co.uk/solar/best-solar-export-tariff-rates-uk-this-month.

How much can I earn from exporting solar energy to the grid?

Earnings depend on (1) your export tariff rate (p/kWh), (2) how much surplus electricity you export, (3) seasonal generation, and (4) how much you self-consume at home (using more yourself usually reduces export but can lower your import bills). To estimate potential earnings using current UK rates, use the up-to-date information on https://www.energyplus.co.uk/solar/best-solar-export-tariff-rates-uk-this-month.

Is it better to choose a fixed or variable solar export tariff?

A fixed export rate can make earnings more predictable, while a variable (or tracker-style) rate may rise or fall with market conditions. The best choice depends on your risk preference, expected export volume, and whether the supplier requires you to bundle import and export. Compare the pros and cons alongside current rates here: https://www.energyplus.co.uk/solar/best-solar-export-tariff-rates-uk-this-month.

What information do I need to apply for a solar export tariff?

You’ll commonly need your MCS certificate (or equivalent documentation), details of your solar PV system (capacity in kWp), your electricity meter details (including whether it’s a smart meter), and your MPAN. Having this ready can speed up approval and payments. For guidance on choosing and applying, visit https://www.energyplus.co.uk/solar/best-solar-export-tariff-rates-uk-this-month.

How do I choose the best solar export tariff rate this month?

Compare the export rate (p/kWh), contract terms, whether the supplier requires you to switch your import tariff, payment frequency, meter requirements, and any caps or exclusions. The easiest way is to use a current comparison that summarises key conditions and highlights top UK options: https://www.energyplus.co.uk/solar/best-solar-export-tariff-rates-uk-this-month.

Do I need to switch my import electricity supplier to get a good export tariff?

Some suppliers require you to take their import tariff to access their export rate, while others allow export-only arrangements. Always check the eligibility rules and compare overall value (import + export) before switching.

How do I calculate solar export earnings?

Estimate your exported energy in kWh for a typical month, then multiply by the export rate (p/kWh). Convert pence to pounds by dividing by 100. Repeat for each tariff to compare expected monthly and annual income.

What documents are needed for a SEG export tariff?

Most suppliers request your MPAN, export meter details, and proof your system meets eligibility requirements (commonly an MCS certificate or equivalent documentation).

Best solar export tariff rates in the UK this month

Q: Can I switch export tariffs without switching my import electricity supplier?

Sometimes. Some suppliers allow export-only customers, while others require you to also take your import tariff with them. This is a key factor when choosing the best export rate for your home. For the latest supplier rules and rate comparisons, see https://www.energyplus.co.uk/solar/best-solar-export-tariff-rates-uk-this-month.

Compare whole-of-market export tariffs for your home solar panels and find a great rate for every unit you export. Tell us a few details and we’ll match you to export deals you can actually switch to.

Whole-of-market comparison for home export tariffs (not just one supplier)
See options for SEG export and (where available) smart export tariffs
Designed for UK households with solar panels and an export-capable meter
Quick online form—no obligation to switch

Compare export tariffs Jump to rates & how they work

Rates change frequently. We’ll show what’s available for your postcode, meter type and export setup, and explain eligibility before you switch.

Compare UK export tariffs for your home (whole-of-market)

If you generate more electricity than you use, an export tariff pays you for the units (kWh) you send back to the grid. The best solar export tariff rate depends on where you live, your meter setup and whether you can join a smart export tariff or a standard SEG export plan.

EnergyPlus.co.uk compares export options from across the market for home energy. We’ll highlight:

High pence-per-kWh export rates (where available for your setup)
Fixed vs variable export pricing and what it means in practice
Any common requirements (for example, a smart meter or compatible export meter)
Whether you need import with the same supplier or can export-only

Tip: Some export tariffs offer a very high rate but are only available if you also take an import tariff with that supplier or meet smart requirements. We’ll help you compare like-for-like.

Get matched to export tariffs

Fill in the form to see export deals you may be eligible for.

Postcode

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Do you have solar panels?

Meter type

Check eligibility

By submitting you agree to be contacted about your home energy comparison. We’ll always explain your options and you can opt out at any time.

Already exporting? If your export rate is low, switching export (or import + export together) may significantly improve what you earn per kWh—subject to eligibility and tariff terms.

What is a solar export tariff in the UK?

A solar export tariff pays you for electricity generated at home and exported to the grid. In Great Britain, export payments are commonly made through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). Suppliers set their own export rates (pence per kWh) and terms.

SEG export (standard)

You’re paid a set export rate (fixed or variable) for each kWh exported. Good if you want simplicity and predictable terms.

Smart export tariffs

Some suppliers offer higher or time-based export prices when you have a smart meter and eligible technology. Great for households with batteries or flexible usage.

Export-only vs bundled

Some export tariffs require you to buy your import electricity from the same supplier. Others allow export-only. We’ll show both where available.

Best solar export tariff rates UK this month (what to look for)

Because availability and pricing can change quickly and can depend on your home setup, the most accurate way to find the best export tariff rate is to compare tariffs you can actually join. Use the guide below to understand what makes an export rate “good” for your household, then compare export tariffs for your postcode.

Important: EnergyPlus.co.uk is a comparison service. We don’t set tariffs. We help you compare whole-of-market options and understand the terms before you switch.

Rate type	Typical suitability	What “best” often means	Watch-outs
High fixed SEG rate	Households wanting stable export payments	Strong p/kWh for all exported units, clear terms	May require import with the same supplier; eligibility checks
Variable SEG rate	If you’re comfortable with changes over time	Competitive vs other variable offers; transparent review schedule	Rate can move up or down; compare exit options
Smart/time-based export	Solar + battery, EV owners, flexible households	Higher export prices at certain times, optimisation potential	Often needs a smart meter + half-hourly data; may be bundled with import
Export-only tariff	If you want to keep your import supplier	Decent export rate without forcing an import switch	Fewer options; some offers only work with certain metering setups

What makes an export tariff “best” for your home?

Export rate (p/kWh): higher rates usually mean higher payouts, but check eligibility and whether it’s fixed or variable.
Metering requirements: you may need a smart meter or export meter to get paid for actual export rather than deemed export.
Payment method and frequency: monthly vs quarterly payments can affect cash flow.
Import tie-in: if a high export rate requires a particular import tariff, assess the combined effect on your total bill.
Contract terms: exit fees, minimum term, and what triggers rate changes on variable tariffs.

How to get a better solar export tariff rate

Use this simple process to improve your export earnings without guesswork.

Check what you’re on today. Find your current export rate (p/kWh), whether it’s fixed/variable, and how you’re measured (smart/export meter vs deemed export).
Confirm your setup. Note whether you have a smart meter, battery storage, and your solar installation certification (commonly MCS) or equivalent evidence.
Compare export deals you can join. Eligibility rules vary. A tariff that looks “best” online might not apply to your meter type or may require import with the same supplier.
Consider import + export together. A top export rate can be offset by an expensive import unit rate. Always compare your total position.
Switch with confidence. Make sure you understand the payment schedule and what happens if the rate changes.

Want it done quickly? Use the export tariff comparison form and we’ll narrow it down based on your postcode and meter type.

Export tariff eligibility checklist (UK homes)

Most export tariffs in Great Britain require you to meet certain criteria before a supplier will pay for exported electricity. Here’s what usually matters.

Common requirements

Eligible technology: solar PV (and sometimes battery storage), installed at a domestic property.
Proof of installation: often MCS certification or equivalent documents (requirements vary by supplier).
Export measurement: smart meter/export meter reading export, or an accepted deemed export method.
Grid connection paperwork: evidence your system is connected correctly (supplier may ask for DNO confirmation).

Things that can limit “best rate” options

No smart meter: some smart export tariffs require half-hourly readings.
Export limit: some suppliers set caps or have specific export arrangements.
Import tie-ins: high export rates can be restricted to customers also taking a particular import tariff.
Moving home / recent switch: timing can affect when payments start.

Common mistakes when chasing the best export tariff

Comparing export rate only

If the export tariff requires switching your import too, an expensive import unit rate can outweigh the export gain.

Assuming you’re eligible

Some “headline” tariffs need a smart meter, specific hardware, or proof like MCS. Always confirm eligibility before applying.

Not checking payment terms

Export payments may be monthly or quarterly and can require meter reads. Knowing the schedule helps you plan.

Solar export tariffs UK: FAQs

Are export tariff rates the same across the UK?

Not always. Some suppliers offer the same rate nationally, while others vary by region, meter type, or whether you have an eligible smart setup. Your postcode can affect what’s available.

Do I need a smart meter to get the best solar export tariff?

Many of the highest-paying smart export tariffs require a smart meter and may use half-hourly readings. However, there are still competitive SEG export tariffs that don’t rely on advanced smart features. We’ll show options for your meter type.

Can I switch export tariffs without switching my import electricity?

Sometimes. Some suppliers allow export-only, but many require import and export to be with them. The right choice depends on your total costs, not just export income.

How do export payments work?

Typically you’re paid a rate per kWh exported. Payments may be monthly or quarterly and can be made by bank transfer or credit. Some tariffs pay different rates at different times if you’re on a smart export plan.

Does a battery help me earn more from export?

A battery can help you control when you export, which may benefit households on time-based smart export tariffs. It can also reduce the amount you import. Whether it’s worthwhile depends on your usage pattern and tariff terms.

If you want personalised guidance, use the comparison form and we’ll match your home to suitable export tariffs.

Why homeowners use EnergyPlus.co.uk

Whole-of-market view

We compare across the market to help you find export tariffs that suit your home—not just a shortlist from one supplier.

Eligibility explained clearly

We flag common requirements like smart metering and documentation, so you don’t waste time applying for a tariff you can’t join.

Home-focused switching support

Built for UK households. We’ll help you compare export-only options and import+export bundles based on your priorities.

What UK households say

“We didn’t realise our export rate was so low. The comparison showed a better option we were eligible for, and the steps were clear.”

Homeowner, West Midlands

“Helpful explanation of smart export vs SEG. We chose a tariff that worked with our smart meter and payment schedule.”

Homeowner, South East

“Quick form, no pressure. It was useful to see which export deals needed an import switch and which didn’t.”

Homeowner, Yorkshire

Ready to find your best solar export tariff rate?

Tell us your postcode and meter type. We’ll compare whole-of-market export tariffs for your home and show options you may be eligible for.

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Updated on 28 Dec 2025