Thinking about installing solar panels or already soaking up the sun? Great! But if you’re not getting paid fairly for the extra energy your panels produce, you might be missing out. That’s where solar export tariffs come in. These are special deals from energy providers that pay you for sending your unused electricity back to the grid.
With more providers jumping into the solar game in 2026, choosing the right tariff can be confusing—but also really rewarding. We’ve done the legwork for you. Here are the top 5 solar tariffs in the UK this year, handpicked for their value, flexibility, and customer-friendly features.
1. Intelligent Octopus Flux – Octopus Energy
- Export Rate: Up to 30.31p per kWh during peak hours (4–7 pm); 22.73p per kWh at other times.
- Eligibility: Requires Octopus Energy as your supplier, a compatible battery system (e.g., GivEnergy), and a smart meter.
- Features: Time-of-use tariff that adjusts rates based on grid demand, maximising earnings during peak periods.
- Pros: Highest export rates available; integrates well with battery storage systems.
- Cons: Requires specific equipment and supplier commitment.
2. Next Export Premium v2 – E.ON Next
- Export Rate: 21p per kWh (fixed for 24 months).
- Eligibility: Available to E.ON Next electricity customers with solar panels and/or battery storage systems installed by E.ON Energy Installation Services Ltd or Eco2Solar Ltd after 1 October 2024.
- Features: Long-term fixed rate providing stability in earnings.
- Pros: High fixed rate; long-term contract offers predictability
- Cons: Limited to installations by specific providers; requires being an E.ON Next customer.
3. Solar Savings Exclusive – Good Energy
- Export Rate: 20p per kWh.
- Eligibility: Available to Good Energy customers with solar panels and battery storage systems installed by Good Energy or JPS Renewables.
- Features: Encourages integration of battery storage to maximise self-consumption and export earnings.
- Pros: Competitive rate; promotes energy independence.
- Cons: Requires installation by specific partners; limited to Good Energy customers.
4. So Bright – So Energy
- Export Rate: 20p per kWh.
- Eligibility: Available to So Energy customers with solar panels and battery storage systems installed by So Energy.
- Features: Fixed rate tariff designed to reward customers investing in solar and battery technology.
- Pros: High fixed rate; supports customers with integrated energy systems.
- Cons: Limited to installations by So Energy; requires being a So Energy customer.
5. SmartGen+ – ScottishPower
- Export Rate: 15p per kWh.
- Eligibility: Available to ScottishPower customers with solar panels and/or battery storage systems installed by ScottishPower.
- Features: Fixed rate tariff offering a balance between flexibility and competitive pricing.
- Pros: No requirement to switch electricity supplier; accessible to a broader range of customers.
- Cons: Lower rate compared to top-tier tariffs; limited to ScottishPower installations.
Methodology Behind The Rankings
To determine the top solar export tariffs, the following criteria were considered:
- Export Rate: The amount paid per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity exported to the grid.
- Eligibility Requirements: Conditions such as customer status, installation partners, and equipment specifications.
- Contract Terms: Length and stability of the tariff rates.
- Integration with Technology: Compatibility with battery storage systems and smart meters.
- Accessibility: Ease of enrolment and flexibility in supplier requirements.
Data was gathered from official energy supplier websites, government publications, and reputable energy comparison platforms to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness.
Conclusion
Our analysis shows a clear trend: energy providers are becoming more responsive to the needs of solar-enabled households, with intelligent time-of-use tariffs and higher export rates reflecting real market value. That said, some tariffs remain locked behind specific installations or supplier restrictions.
To get the most from your system, look beyond just the pence-per-kWh headline. Evaluate contract flexibility, compatibility with energy tech, and your long-term energy goals. A well-matched export tariff not only saves money but also makes your home part of the UK’s smarter, greener grid.
Looking to explore sustainable solutions for your business?
Contact Perfect Sense Energy for personalised advice.
FAQs
1. What is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) and how does it work?
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is a UK government-backed scheme requiring licensed electricity suppliers to pay small-scale renewable generators, like solar panel owners, for the excess electricity they export to the grid. Payments are based on actual meter readings and rates vary by supplier.
2. Can I switch energy providers and still keep my solar export tariff?
Yes, you can switch providers, but you may lose your current export tariff. SEG export tariffs are separate from your electricity import tariff, and eligibility varies between suppliers. Always confirm your new provider’s SEG terms before switching to avoid disruption.
3. Do I need a battery storage system to access the best solar tariffs?
No, a battery isn’t required to access SEG tariffs, but some of the highest-paying and most flexible tariffs—such as time-of-use or dynamic export rates—do require battery integration. A battery can also help you store energy for use or export when rates are highest.
4. How is solar export income taxed in the UK?
For most homeowners, solar export income under the SEG is tax-free, especially if the generation is for personal use and not part of a commercial operation. However, if you’re generating large volumes or selling commercially, HMRC may require you to declare income.
5. What’s the difference between a fixed and variable solar export tariff?
A fixed export tariff pays a set rate per kWh regardless of the time of day, while a variable or dynamic tariff adjusts rates based on grid demand. Fixed rates offer simplicity and predictability; variable tariffs can offer higher returns if you export during peak times.
