Compare UK solar electricity tariffs for winter savings
See whole-of-market options for solar export and import tariffs, and find a home energy deal that fits winter usage. Compare in minutes with EnergyPlus.co.uk.
- Compare solar-friendly import & export tariffs (where available)
- Check winter-ready options: off-peak rates, EV tariffs and tracker/fixed deals
- Whole-of-market comparison with clear next steps
- Switch online with support when you need it
For UK homes only. Savings depend on your meter setup, usage and tariff availability. We compare across the market where possible.
Compare solar import & export tariffs built for UK winters
In winter, solar generation usually drops while home electricity use rises (lighting, cooking, heat pumps, tumble dryers and EV charging). The right tariff can reduce what you pay for imported electricity and help you earn a fair rate for what you export back to the grid.
EnergyPlus.co.uk is a comparison service. We help you compare whole-of-market UK home energy options, including solar-friendly tariffs (such as tariffs that pay for exports under the Smart Export Guarantee) and import tariffs that can suit high winter demand (such as time-of-use and EV tariffs).
Get tailored results
Fill in a few details to see solar electricity tariff options for your home.
Why winter is the best time to review your solar electricity tariff
Higher import, lower generation
Shorter days can reduce solar output, so your import tariff matters more. A competitive unit rate (or time-of-use pricing that matches your routine) can make a noticeable difference in winter bills.
Time-of-use can favour winter routines
If you can shift some usage to off-peak windows (laundry, dishwasher, EV charging), a time-of-use tariff can reduce the cost of the electricity you rely on most when solar is limited.
Export rates and setup still count
Even in winter, exports may occur on clear days. Being on the right export tariff (and ensuring your SEG registration is in place) helps you get paid appropriately for the electricity you send back to the grid.
What to compare for winter solar savings
To find the best-value setup for your home, compare both sides of your electricity: what you import from the grid and what you export back. Many households focus on export rates and miss the larger winter impact: the price you pay when your home draws power after dark.
Import tariff (what you pay)
- Unit rate (p/kWh): matters more in winter if you import more.
- Standing charge: can vary by region; always compare it.
- Time-of-use windows: check peak vs off-peak times fit your routine.
- EV / heat pump suitability: some tariffs are designed around higher overnight use.
- Fixed vs variable vs tracker: balance stability and risk based on your preference.
Export tariff (what you earn)
- Export rate (p/kWh): paid for electricity you send to the grid (where eligible).
- Meter requirements: many export tariffs require a smart meter capable of export readings.
- Payment terms: timing and method can differ by supplier.
- Eligibility checks: MCS certification/installation evidence may be needed.
- Battery impact: exporting less (because you store more) may still be better if it reduces expensive imports.
Quick comparison table: winter-focused tariff types
| Tariff type | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed rate import | Bill stability through winter; predictable budgeting | Exit fees; may miss price drops |
| Standard variable import | Flexibility; no fixed term | Rates can change; often not the most competitive |
| Time-of-use import (incl. EV) | Households that can shift use off-peak; EV/battery owners | Peak rates may be higher; needs the right smart meter |
| Tracker import | Those comfortable with variable daily/regular pricing | Price volatility; not ideal for strict budgets |
| SEG export tariff | Getting paid for exports (where eligible) | Export reading requirements; rates and terms vary |
Not sure what you’re on now? Start with the comparison form and we’ll help narrow down suitable winter options based on your setup.
How comparing solar tariffs with EnergyPlus works
- Tell us about your home setup (postcode, solar, smart meter and typical winter usage).
- We check whole-of-market availability to identify suitable import and export tariff options in your area.
- Compare costs and features such as standing charge, peak/off-peak windows, contract length and export terms (where applicable).
- Choose your preferred option and follow the switching steps. You can keep your current setup if you don’t see value.
What we’ll ask for
- Your postcode (to check regional pricing)
- Whether you have solar and a smart meter
- Typical winter usage level
- Your contact details to send results
What to have handy (optional)
- A recent electricity bill (unit rate and standing charge)
- Smart meter type / MPAN details (if known)
- Solar installation details (MCS certificate if requested by a supplier)
- Battery/EV/heat pump info (to match time-of-use options)
Common winter mistakes solar households make (and how to avoid them)
Only comparing export rate
In winter you usually import more. A slightly lower export rate can be outweighed by a much cheaper import unit rate or a better off-peak window.
Choosing time-of-use without checking timings
Off-peak times differ by tariff. If your household is busiest during peak hours, you could pay more overall. Match the tariff to your routine and appliances.
Not confirming smart meter/export readings
Some export tariffs require half-hourly data or export-capable readings. If your meter isn’t set up correctly, payments can be delayed or unavailable.
Solar tariff FAQs (UK winter edition)
Do I need a smart meter to get paid for solar exports?
Often, yes. Many export tariffs require a smart meter that can record export readings (and in some cases half-hourly data). Requirements vary by supplier and tariff. We’ll factor this into your comparison results.
Can I have a different supplier for export than for import?
Sometimes. Some suppliers allow export-only arrangements; others require you to take import as well. Availability depends on supplier policy and your meter setup. When you compare, we’ll highlight options that may suit your preference.
Do time-of-use tariffs help if I don’t have a battery?
They can. Even without a battery, you may be able to shift certain loads (washing machine, dishwasher, immersion heater, EV charging) into cheaper hours. The key is whether your household can avoid expensive peak periods during winter evenings.
Will switching affect my solar panels or inverter warranty?
Switching electricity supplier typically doesn’t affect your solar equipment warranty. Your panels, inverter and battery (if you have one) remain the same. What changes is how you’re billed for imported electricity and paid for exports.
How quickly can I switch before winter peaks?
Switching times vary by supplier, tariff and your circumstances. Some changes can be arranged quickly, while others take longer due to meter configuration or export registration steps. We’ll guide you through what to expect based on your comparison results.
Are solar tariffs available across the whole UK?
Availability can differ by region, supplier and meter type. Standing charges also vary by electricity distribution region in Great Britain. Use your postcode in the form above to see what’s available where you live.
Still unsure? Use the comparison form and we’ll help you shortlist winter-ready solar electricity tariffs.
What homeowners say
“We didn’t realise our winter import rate mattered more than the export rate. The comparison made it easy to see total cost.”
“Clear explanation of peak/off-peak times. We now run the dishwasher overnight and our bills have been more manageable.”
“Helpful to understand what our smart meter could and couldn’t do for export readings. Saved us time.”
Ready to compare winter solar electricity tariffs?
Find import and export options available at your postcode and see which tariffs could reduce your winter electricity costs.
EnergyPlus.co.uk is a comparison service for UK homes. Tariffs, rates and eligibility can change. Always review supplier terms before switching.
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