Best solar export tariff rates UK this week (whole-of-market)
Compare the latest UK solar export tariff rates for homes with solar panels (SEG). We’ll match you to eligible export deals based on your postcode, meter type and usage—then help you switch.
- Whole-of-market comparison for UK household export tariffs
- Check eligibility for SEG payments (smart meter or export meter)
- See fixed vs variable export rates and estimated export earnings
- Fast quote—no obligation to switch
For UK households. Rates change frequently; we show what’s available to you this week based on eligibility and supplier availability.
Compare UK solar export tariffs available to you this week
If you’ve got solar panels at home, the right solar export tariff can pay you for each unit of electricity you export to the grid. Export rates can move quickly, and availability can depend on your setup—so we compare whole-of-market options based on your details.
Use the form to get a tailored comparison for your address. We’ll consider common eligibility factors like your smart meter, whether you’re on SEG (Smart Export Guarantee), and whether your supplier requires you to also take an import tariff.
Tip: The “best” solar export tariff rate isn’t always the highest p/kWh. Some export deals have conditions (like needing the same supplier for import), and the best value can depend on how much you export and when.
Already exporting? Switching may still be possible—many households can move to a new export tariff if they meet the supplier’s requirements.
What you’ll get from EnergyPlus
- Tailored export tariff shortlist based on postcode, meter and eligibility
- Clear comparison of fixed vs variable export rates and key conditions
- Switch support for UK households (no business energy)
- Options for import + export if that unlocks better export rates
Get your export tariff comparison
Complete the form and we’ll show the best available solar export tariff rates for your home.
Why we ask for postcode: Export tariff availability and network considerations can vary by supplier and region. Postcode helps us show accurate options.
Why solar export tariff rates change “this week”
Export tariffs can move week-to-week because suppliers adjust pricing, eligibility, and product availability. Some tariffs track wholesale markets (or are reviewed regularly), while others are fixed for a period but can be withdrawn to new applicants.
Supplier availability changes
Some export tariffs open and close to new customers. A deal you saw last month may not be available now—or may require you to also switch your import tariff.
Variable vs fixed structures
Some export tariffs are variable (rate can change), while fixed deals offer certainty but might start lower—or include specific meter requirements.
Metering and settlement rules
Eligibility commonly depends on having a smart meter configured for export readings or an export meter. If your meter setup changes, your options can change too.
Benefits of choosing the right UK export tariff
The best export tariff for your home depends on your system size, household usage patterns, and whether you’re happy to switch import and export together. Here’s what households typically gain by comparing properly.
Higher export earnings
If you regularly export surplus (especially spring/summer), a better p/kWh rate can materially improve annual SEG payments.
Clearer terms and fewer surprises
Comparing side-by-side helps you spot conditions like “must take import tariff” or specific meter/reading requirements.
Better import + export pairing
Some households do best by optimising both sides: a competitive import rate plus a solid export rate can beat chasing export alone.
Works with battery and EV setups
If you have a battery or EV charger, your export profile may be different. We’ll surface tariffs that suit your setup where available.
Faster decisions
Instead of searching multiple supplier pages, you get a tailored shortlist based on the factors that usually block applications.
No-cost comparison
Checking your options is free. If you decide to switch, we’ll guide you through the next steps.
How solar export tariffs work in the UK (SEG)
Most modern UK export payments are made under the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). Licensed electricity suppliers with enough customers must offer an export tariff, but the rate and terms vary—so comparing matters.
-
You generate electricity at home
Your solar PV produces electricity. Your home uses what it needs first. -
Surplus electricity is exported to the grid
When generation exceeds household demand, the surplus goes out to the grid. -
Your export is measured (usually via a smart meter)
Export readings are taken automatically or submitted, depending on your setup and supplier. -
You’re paid per kWh exported
The supplier pays you based on their export rate (p/kWh). Payments are commonly credited to your bill or paid separately.
Fixed export tariff
The export rate stays the same for a set period (subject to the tariff terms). Useful if you want predictability for export earnings.
Variable export tariff
The export rate can change. Sometimes it tracks wider price movements. It can be competitive, but you’ll want to keep an eye on changes.
What to look for in the best solar export tariff rates
When people search “best solar export tariff rates UK this week”, they usually want the highest p/kWh. That’s important—but you’ll also want to check the terms that affect whether you can actually get the rate, and how much you’ll receive over time.
| Rate factor | Why it matters | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Export rate (p/kWh) | Directly impacts what you earn for each unit exported. | Is it fixed or variable? Are there rate reviews or withdrawal clauses? |
| Import + export bundle | Some suppliers only offer their best export rate if you also take their import tariff. | Do you need to switch your import tariff too? Any exit fees? |
| Meter requirements | Accurate export readings are typically required for SEG payments. | Smart meter capable of export readings, or export meter accepted by the supplier. |
| Payment method and frequency | Affects cashflow and how quickly you see the benefit. | Bill credit vs bank payment; monthly vs quarterly; estimated vs actual readings. |
| Eligibility rules | Some tariffs require proof of MCS or specific documents. | MCS certificate (or equivalent), DNO notification, installation date, ownership/tenancy status. |
Quick reality check: If you export very little because you use most solar generation in the home (e.g. daytime usage or battery), chasing the very top export rate may matter less than choosing the best overall import + export package.
Solar export tariff eligibility (UK household checklist)
Most UK export tariffs (SEG) have similar requirements, but details vary by supplier. Use this checklist before you apply, then run a comparison to see what’s available to you this week.
You’ll usually need
- Solar PV installed at a UK residential address
- A suitable meter (often a smart meter configured for export readings)
- Proof of installation standards (commonly MCS or equivalent)
- Your system registered/recognised by the relevant network process (varies)
- Bank details if payments are made outside the bill
Common reasons applications fail
- Meter can’t provide export readings (or export not enabled yet)
- Missing paperwork (certificate/commissioning documents)
- Trying to apply for an export tariff that requires the same supplier for import
- Supply address details don’t match (name, MPAN, meter serial)
- Tariff withdrawn to new customers before completion
Not sure what meter you have? Choose “Standard meter (not sure)” in the form. We’ll guide you on the typical next steps to enable export readings.
How much can you earn from a solar export tariff?
Your export earnings depend on how much electricity you export (kWh) and the export rate (p/kWh). The simplest estimate is:
Estimated export earnings = Exported kWh × export rate
Example: exporting 1,500 kWh/year at 10p/kWh would be around £150/year (before any supplier-specific terms).
What increases exported kWh?
- Lower daytime home usage (more surplus to export)
- Larger solar PV system capacity
- Seasonality (spring and summer typically export more)
- Battery strategy (some households export less by storing more)
Accuracy note: Some households underestimate export because they focus on generation alone. Your export is what’s left after home usage and battery charging—so comparing tariffs is most useful when paired with an estimate of your exported units.
Common mistakes when choosing an export tariff
Only comparing the headline p/kWh
The top rate may be tied to an import tariff that costs more overall. Always check the combined impact on your bill and export income.
Assuming you’re automatically eligible
A smart meter is common, but export readings may need enabling. Missing documents can delay or prevent SEG onboarding.
Forgetting payment method and timings
Two tariffs with the same rate can feel very different if one pays quarterly as bill credit and another pays separately.
Solar export tariff FAQs
What is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)?
SEG is the UK scheme where electricity suppliers pay households for renewable electricity exported to the grid. Each supplier sets their own export rate and terms, so it’s worth comparing.
Do I need to be with the same supplier for import and export?
It depends on the tariff. Some suppliers allow export-only customers; others require you to also take their import tariff to access specific rates. EnergyPlus checks this when we match options to your details.
Can I get an export tariff without a smart meter?
Some households can use an export meter, but many suppliers prefer smart meters for automatic export readings. If you’re not sure, submit the form and we’ll explain your likely pathway.
Will switching export tariffs affect my FIT payments?
Feed-in Tariff (FIT) is a legacy scheme. Many households searching for SEG export tariffs are not on FIT, but if you are, your situation can be different. Tell us in your notes when we contact you, or include it in your supplier details, and we’ll help you understand your options.
How long does an export tariff switch take?
Timescales vary by supplier and whether your meter needs export configuration. If your meter and documents are ready, it can be straightforward; if not, it may take longer while readings/export setup is confirmed.
Is EnergyPlus a supplier?
No—EnergyPlus.co.uk is a UK comparison service. We help households compare whole-of-market solar export tariff options and understand key conditions before switching.
What households say about EnergyPlus
We focus on clarity: rates, eligibility, and the small print that affects whether you’ll actually be paid for export.
“Finally understood why the top export rate wasn’t available to me without switching import too. The comparison saved me hours.”
— Homeowner, West Midlands
“Straightforward form, no pressure. I got options that actually matched my meter setup.”
— Homeowner, Greater Manchester
“Helpful explanation of SEG and what paperwork I needed. Made the supplier application smoother.”
— Homeowner, Kent
Trust: We compare whole-of-market options where available and present key terms clearly, so you can make an informed decision for your household.
See the best solar export tariff rates you can get this week
Get a tailored shortlist based on your postcode and meter setup. Compare export rates, key conditions, and whether switching import as well could improve your overall outcome.
- Whole-of-market comparison for UK households
- Clear eligibility checks and next-step guidance
- No-obligation form—takes a couple of minutes
Prefer to read first? Jump to what to look for in rates or eligibility.
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