Solar Export Tariff Rates: How to Maximise Your UK Earnings in 2026

You can typically earn between 5p and 25p per kilowatt-hour (kWh) by exporting excess solar electricity to the grid. For a standard UK household, this could potentially result in annual payments of up to £893, depending on your system size, export volume, and whether you choose a premium tariff from a supplier like Octopus, E.ON Next, or Good Energy.

What are the current solar export tariff rates in the UK?

Since the closure of the Feed-in Tariff (FIT) scheme, the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) has become the primary mechanism for UK homeowners to receive payments for the renewable energy they generate but do not use. Unlike the old FIT scheme, SEG rates are not set by the government; instead, individual energy suppliers set their own prices, provided they remain above zero.

As of mid-2026, the market for solar export tariff rates has become increasingly competitive. While some basic tariffs offer as little as 2p to 5p per kWh, premium rates have surged. For instance, Good Energy has offered up to 25p/kWh for their own installation customers, while OVO Energy has featured rates reaching 20p/kWh. Other major players like EDF and E.ON Next typically offer between 15p and 18p per kWh for eligible customers.

For homeowners in London and Kent, where solar irradiance is among the highest in the UK, these rates can significantly offset the initial cost of a solar PV installation. However, it is vital to note that the highest headline rate is not always the most profitable option. Many top-tier rates require you to be an import customer with the same supplier or to have had your system installed by their approved partners.

How much can I earn exporting solar electricity in London and Kent?

Earnings vary based on your roof's orientation, the size of your solar array, and your household's daytime electricity consumption. In the South East, including Kent and Greater London, solar panels typically generate more electricity than in northern regions due to higher average sunshine hours.

According to recent industry data, a typical UK household could potentially earn up to £893 per year from export alone if they maximise their efficiency. In a sunny Kent coastal town like Whitstable or a south-facing London terrace, your generation potential might be higher than the national average.

To estimate your potential earnings, you must consider your 'self-consumption' rate. If you are at home during the day using appliances, you will export less. Conversely, if you have a solar battery, you might choose to store energy for evening use rather than exporting it. While exporting at 15p/kWh is beneficial, saving 27p/kWh by not importing from the grid is often more financially advantageous.

What are the eligibility requirements for SEG tariffs?

To access the best solar export tariff rates, your installation must meet specific regulatory standards.

Do I need an MCS certificate?

Most reputable suppliers, including those serving the London and Kent areas, require your solar PV system to be certified under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) or an equivalent standard. This ensures the installation meets safety and performance criteria. Without this certification, you may find it difficult to sign up for anything other than the most basic export rates.

Is a smart meter mandatory?

Yes. To be paid for the exact amount of electricity you export, you must have a smart meter capable of recording half-hourly export data. If you still have an old-style analogue meter, you will need to request a smart meter upgrade from your energy supplier before you can apply for a SEG tariff.

What is a DNO notification?

Your installer must notify the District Network Operator (DNO)—which is UK Power Networks for most of London and Kent—that your system is connected to the grid. You will typically need your G98 or G99 certification number to complete your SEG application.

How can I choose the best solar export tariff for my home?

When comparing solar export tariff rates, consider the following three strategies:

1. The 'Dual Fuel' Approach: Some suppliers offer a 'loyalty' export rate. If you switch both your import and export to the same provider, you might access rates of 15p/kWh or higher. This is often the simplest way to maximise returns for Kent homeowners who don't want to manage multiple accounts.
2. The 'Agile' or Smart Approach: Suppliers like Octopus Energy offer dynamic tariffs where the export rate changes based on wholesale market prices. During periods of high demand, you could potentially earn significantly more, though this requires a more 'hands-on' approach to energy management.
3. The 'Export-Only' Approach: If you are locked into a very cheap import fixed-rate deal, you may prefer an export-only tariff. Some suppliers allow you to export to them even if they don't provide your import electricity, though these rates are typically lower, often ranging from 5p to 12p per kWh.

Should I export my electricity or store it in a battery?

This is a common question for our clients in Kent and London. With import prices often hovering around 27p per kWh and top export rates at 15p to 20p, the 'price gap' is roughly 7p to 12p.

If you store your solar energy in a battery and use it at night, you are effectively 'saving' the full 27p you would have spent on imports. If you export it, you only 'earn' the 15p export rate. Therefore, for most households, prioritising self-consumption through a battery remains the most effective way to reduce overall energy bills. However, during the peak of summer in the South East, your panels may produce more than even a large battery can hold, making a high export tariff a vital secondary income stream.

Key Takeaways for London and Kent Homeowners

• Compare regularly: Solar export tariff rates change frequently; don't settle for a default rate of 1-3p when 15p+ is available.
• Check eligibility: Ensure you have an MCS certificate and a functional smart meter to qualify for premium SEG rates.
• Location matters: The South East's high solar irradiance means you are likely to have more surplus energy to export than other UK regions.
• Look at the whole bill: A high export rate is excellent, but not if it forces you onto an expensive import tariff. Calculate the total annual cost.
• Professional Installation: Ensure your installer provides all necessary DNO and MCS paperwork to avoid delays in your SEG application, which can typically take 8-10 weeks to process.