Get paid for spare solar electricity
An export tariff pays you for spare electricity your panels send to the grid. The right choice depends on how much you export and any conditions attached to the offer.
Start with the electricity you export
Look for your yearly export total in your meter readings or export account. One kWh is one unit of electricity. At 12p per kWh, 2,000 exported units would earn £240.
Your panels’ total output includes electricity you use at home, so use your export figure when estimating payments.
Check who can apply
- Do you have to buy your home electricity from the same company?
- Must the company have installed your panels or battery?
- Do you need a particular meter or battery?
- Is there a limit on system size?
Understand how the rate works
A flat rate pays the same amount whatever time of day you export. It can still be variable, meaning the supplier can change it. A fixed rate is guaranteed for a stated period.
Time-of-use tariffs pay different amounts at different times. Some prices change every half hour. Check when you actually export before comparing these with an all-day rate.
Compare what you pay and what you earn
If you need to switch electricity supplier, include its unit prices and daily standing charge. If an offer requires new equipment, include the fitted price too.
Ask how long any special rate lasts, what comes next and whether there are exit charges. Keep a copy of the terms that apply when you join.
Explore the suppliers
Read the guides to EDF, Octopus, E.ON Next, British Gas, ScottishPower and Good Energy. Their rates were checked on 5 September 2026.
If you are new to export payments, see how to apply for the Smart Export Guarantee.
Compare the July 2026 rates
Our tariff finder lets you explore selected rates checked on 10 July 2026 and filter them by your circumstances. Use the supplier’s latest terms when deciding whether to apply.