Solar Export Tariff Rates: How to Maximise Your Earnings in 2026
Homeowners can typically earn between 4p and 25p per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for exporting surplus solar electricity to the grid under the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). Your actual earnings depend on your chosen supplier, your specific tariff, and whether you have battery storage installed to manage your export timing.
How much can I earn exporting solar electricity? Homeowners can typically earn between 4p and 25p per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for exporting surplus solar electricity to the grid under the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). Your actual earnings depend on your chosen supplier, your specific tariff, and whether you have battery storage installed to manage your export timing. For many households in London and Kent, optimising these rates is a key step in improving the return on investment for their renewable energy systems. ## What is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)? The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is the primary mechanism in the UK for rewarding households that generate their own renewable electricity. If you have an MCS-certified solar installation, you are potentially eligible to receive payments for the excess energy you export back to the National Grid. Unlike the older Feed-in Tariff, which paid for all generation, the SEG focuses specifically on the surplus energy you do not consume yourself. ## Why do export rates vary so much? As of August 2026, there are approximately thirty live SEG tariffs available across the UK. Rates range from a modest 2p/kWh up to 25p/kWh. The highest rates are often "exclusive" offers, typically reserved for customers who have purchased their solar panels or battery storage systems directly from that specific energy supplier. If you are currently on an older, legacy SEG tariff from 2020 or 2021, you might be receiving as little as 5p/kWh, meaning you could be leaving significant annual income on the table by not switching to a more competitive modern rate. ## How can I maximise my export earnings in London and Kent? For residents in London and Kent, the strategy for maximising earnings often involves more than just picking the highest headline rate. 1. Consider Battery Storage: A home battery allows you to store excess solar energy generated during the day and export it during peak times when some suppliers offer higher "time-of-use" export rates. 2. Check Supplier Exclusivity: While some suppliers offer high rates, they may require you to be an existing import customer or have had your system installed by their approved partners. 3. Review Your Usage: If you have a heat pump, your electricity consumption will be higher. You may need to balance the benefits of a high export rate against the cost of your import tariff. 4. Monitor Market Changes: Export tariffs are not static. Suppliers frequently update their offerings, so it is worth reviewing your tariff annually to ensure it remains competitive. ## Key takeaways - Earnings Potential: You can typically earn between 4p and 25p per kWh depending on your provider and system setup. - Check Your Current Rate: If you are on a legacy tariff from 2020-2021, you are likely under-earning and should compare current market rates. - System Integration: Installing a battery can help you time your exports to coincide with higher tariff periods. - Eligibility: Ensure your system is MCS-certified to qualify for SEG payments. - Shop Around: High-paying tariffs often come with conditions, such as requiring you to use the supplier for your electricity import or having your system installed by them.