Best solar export tariff UK 2026: compare & switch
Compare whole-of-market solar export tariffs for your home in 2026. Tell us a few details and EnergyPlus will match you with export rates that fit your meter, payments preferences, and switching timeline.
- Whole-of-market comparison for UK homes (not just a limited panel)
- See key differences: export rate type, eligibility, and payment terms
- Free, no-obligation recommendations based on your setup
For domestic customers in Great Britain. Availability and eligibility depend on supplier rules, meter type and your installation documentation.
Compare the best solar export tariff in the UK for 2026
A “best” export tariff isn’t the same for every home. It depends on how much you export, whether you have a smart meter, if you have a battery, and whether you want a fixed export rate (simple and predictable) or a variable/export-linked rate (can be higher at certain times).
EnergyPlus compares whole-of-market export tariffs and highlights the practical details that affect real payouts, such as metering requirements, minimum generation paperwork, and how/when suppliers pay you.
Quick 2026 checklist (what we’ll match for you)
- Export type: Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) vs supplier-specific export add-ons
- Rate style: fixed p/kWh vs variable/market-linked export
- Metering: smart meter and export reading method
- Eligibility: MCS certificate (or accepted equivalent), DNO notification, commissioning date
- Payments: monthly/quarterly, minimum payout thresholds, bank transfer rules
Ready to see options for your home? Fill in the form and we’ll show export tariffs that match your setup and switching preferences.
What “best solar export tariff” means for different UK homes
In 2026, most export options still fall under the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) framework, but suppliers set their own export prices and terms. Use this section to understand what typically delivers the best outcome for your setup.
If you export a lot (daytime away from home)
A higher p/kWh export rate matters most. We’ll prioritise tariffs with strong export pricing and clear payment schedules, while checking for caps or minimum payout thresholds.
If you have a battery
You may be able to export at more valuable times. We’ll flag tariffs where export pricing varies by time or is linked to market conditions, and confirm any metering requirements.
If you want simplicity
A straightforward fixed export rate can be “best” if you value predictable payments and minimal admin. We’ll highlight the cleanest terms and easiest eligibility routes.
Tip: The “best” export tariff can change depending on when you export. If you’re unsure, choose “Not sure” on the form—your matches will include both predictable and potentially higher-paying options where suitable.
How solar export tariffs work in the UK (2026)
A solar export tariff pays you for electricity your home generates and sends back to the grid. For most households, this sits under the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG): suppliers with enough customers must offer at least one export tariff, but the rate and terms vary by supplier.
You’ll typically see
- Fixed export rates (simple p/kWh)
- Variable export rates (can change over time)
- Time-based export (varies by time of day on some tariffs)
- Supplier-linked conditions (e.g. must also take import supply)
Your payment depends on
- Exported kWh recorded by your meter
- Export rate in p/kWh
- How you use energy (self-consumption vs export)
- Supplier admin (billing cycle, thresholds, documentation)
What you’ll need to join or switch export tariffs
1) Export-capable meter
Usually a smart meter configured to record exports (or another compliant export metering method).
2) Installation evidence
MCS certificate (or accepted equivalent) plus key system details (capacity, commissioning date).
3) DNO notification
Your installation should be notified/approved by your local Distribution Network Operator where required.
4) Supplier account details
MPAN/meter details and bank details for export payments.
If you’re missing paperwork, don’t worry—tell us in the form notes during follow-up and we’ll point you to export tariffs that are more flexible (where available) and explain how to obtain duplicates from installers or schemes.
What to check before choosing an export tariff in 2026
Export rates get the attention, but the terms decide whether a tariff is genuinely good for your home. Here are the most common “gotchas” we check when we compare export tariffs for you.
1) Do you need to take import with the same supplier?
Some export tariffs are only available if your import electricity comes from that supplier too. That may be fine, but you’ll want to assess your import unit rates and standing charge as well.
2) How are export readings collected?
Most suppliers prefer automated smart readings. If readings are manual or intermittent, payouts can be delayed. We’ll confirm the reading method and typical payment frequency.
3) Are there minimum payout thresholds?
Some suppliers only pay once you reach a minimum export credit amount. If you export small amounts, a tariff with simpler monthly payouts can be better even at a slightly lower p/kWh.
4) Exit fees and contract length
Export tariffs may sit alongside import deals. If your import tariff has exit fees, switching could cost more than you gain. We’ll help you compare the net benefit.
Comparison table: what we review for every export tariff
Reality check: The best export tariff for you may be the one that pays reliably and works with your metering, even if another supplier advertises a higher p/kWh with stricter conditions.
Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) in 2026: eligibility and essentials
SEG is the main scheme behind most UK home solar export payments. In practical terms: qualifying households can be paid for exported electricity, but suppliers set their own rates and rules within the framework.
You’ll usually need
- An eligible renewable generation installation (commonly solar PV)
- Evidence such as an MCS certificate (or accepted equivalent)
- An export meter that can provide readings to the supplier
- A UK bank account for export payments
Common eligibility blockers
- No export readings available (meter not configured)
- Missing installation documentation
- Supplier-specific restrictions (e.g. must be their import customer)
- Delays confirming DNO notification/approval where relevant
If you’re unsure what you have, that’s normal—many homeowners inherit paperwork when they move. Fill in the form and we’ll help identify what’s needed to start earning export payments.
Regional considerations across the UK
Export tariffs are usually available across Great Britain, but your local network and metering situation can affect timelines. We ask for your postcode to check practical requirements and supplier coverage.
England
Most suppliers offer broad coverage. The key is confirming export readings and matching import+export value if a supplier requires both.
Scotland
Tariff availability is generally good. We’ll still check metering compatibility and payment terms, as these vary more than people expect.
Wales
No special action for most homes beyond standard SEG eligibility. We’ll focus on value and payout reliability.
Northern Ireland: Export arrangements can differ. If you’re in Northern Ireland, submit the form and add a note—our team will confirm what’s available for your address.
Common mistakes when searching for the best solar export tariff
Comparing export rate only
A high p/kWh can be offset by poor import rates (if bundled), payout thresholds, or admin delays. Our comparisons consider the overall outcome.
Assuming your meter is already exporting readings
Some smart meters need configuration to record export properly. We’ll help you identify if this could affect eligibility or payment accuracy.
Not checking payment frequency
Monthly vs quarterly payouts can matter. If you prefer steady payments, we’ll prioritise suppliers with consistent schedules and clear statements.
Missing paperwork after moving house
It’s common not to have certificates to hand. We’ll explain what you need and which tariffs may still be workable while you retrieve documentation.
If you want a fast answer: Start with the form. We’ll narrow down the export tariffs you can actually join in 2026, then sort by value and practicality.
FAQs: best solar export tariff UK 2026
Can I have an export tariff without a smart meter?
Often, suppliers expect smart export readings, but requirements vary. If you don’t have a smart meter (or you’re not sure), we’ll show options and explain what changes may be needed to start exporting reliably.
Do I need to switch my import electricity to get the best export tariff?
Not always. Some export tariffs are open to non-import customers; others require you to take import with them. EnergyPlus compares both the export terms and the impact on your import costs before recommending a switch.
How long does it take to start getting paid for exports?
Timelines vary by supplier and by how quickly metering and documentation are confirmed. It can be quicker if export readings flow automatically and you have certificates ready.
Is a variable export tariff better in 2026?
It can be, especially if you have battery storage and can shift exports. But variable rates can fall too. We’ll show fixed and variable options (when available) so you can choose what suits your risk preference.
Does exporting affect my electricity bill?
Export payments are typically credited or paid out separately depending on the supplier. Your import bill still depends on what you buy from the grid, your import unit rate, and standing charge.
Can I export if I moved into a house with solar panels?
Usually yes, as long as you can provide the required evidence and have compliant export metering. If you don’t have paperwork, we’ll tell you what’s typically accepted and how to recover it.
Still unsure? Use the comparison form and we’ll guide you through the best-fit export tariffs for your home.
UK homeowners who compared export tariffs with EnergyPlus
We focus on clarity and fit—especially around eligibility, metering, and how suppliers actually pay. Here are a few examples of what customers value.
“I thought I’d found the best export rate, but it required switching import too. EnergyPlus broke down the full picture and the option we chose worked out better overall.”
“We inherited solar when we moved and had no certificates. The team explained exactly what we needed and helped us pick a supplier with straightforward onboarding.”
“The comparison was practical: not just rates, but payment frequency and how readings are taken. That made choosing a 2026 export tariff much easier.”
Why people trust EnergyPlus
- Whole-of-market approach for domestic home energy comparisons
- Clear explanation of eligibility and documentation
- Focused on real-world payout reliability, not headline rates alone
Find your best solar export tariff for 2026
Use our whole-of-market comparison to shortlist export tariffs that fit your meter, your home setup and your preferred payment style.
Domestic UK comparisons only. Rates and eligibility can change; we’ll confirm current terms with the supplier before you proceed.
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