Why you should solarize energy and sell power back to the grid in 2026
Generating energy from renewable sources will allow you to earn and save for the long term. When you solarize energy, you now have a way to power your home while also being able to sell surplus power back to the grid, leading to a profit.
Why you should solarize energy in 2026
The use of PV systems in the UK and Europe has experienced a surge in recent years. In 2025, the number of new installations in the UK grew by 35%. There is now a growing push from the UK government and the EU to use more renewable sources for greater responsibility. Households continue moving toward self-generation because when you solarize energy, you decrease your carbon footprint, as well as sell surplus generated energy to your grid.
Smart meters are needed when planning to have an electricity export capability, as they measure the energy you sell and send the data to suppliers.
Benefits of selling electricity back to the grid
There are numerous benefits of selling electricity back to the grid when you solarize energy. The main benefit you can experience is reducing your bills. It also supports grid decarbonization and helps grids become more sustainable, while also enhancing local resilience.
Savings from self-consumption
High self-consumption by using your own solar-generated energy can yield the highest savings. Exporting energy can be better for the short term, but consuming your PV’s generated solar energy allows for more long-term gains. These gains are amplified with the use of battery storage. You can now handle Time-of-Use tariffs better by not being reliant on the grid during peak hours.
Battery storage and smart export strategies in 2026
Battery storage gives homeowners even greater self-consumption since it stores surplus energy that was generated by your PV system. However, your storage must be compatible with your PV system. Storage systems like EcoFlow PowerOcean offer modern solutions that let you use stored energy during peak grid hours or during outages.
With the help of the EcoFlow HEMS app and PowerInsight 2, an all-in-one energy monitor, you can automate load switching protocols. This lets you save money during peak grid hours. The less time you buy imported electricity during peak hours, the lower your monthly energy bill will be, leading to more savings.
These savings can help shorten the payback of your installed home battery and solar system, as well as making you eligible for grants and schemes that incentivise storage use. Applying smart storage solution strategies in 2026 can help you not only lower your carbon footprint but also maximize your solar energy generation
Regulatory changes shaping 2026: SEG vs FiT vs PPA
Scenarios | SEG (Smart Export Guarantee) | FiT (Feed-in Tariff) | PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) |
|---|---|---|---|
Currently used for | Ongoing mechanism for most homes in the UK. | This is the new scheme that was used from 2010 to 2019. New installations cannot avail of this scheme anymore. | For businesses with higher solar energy generation. |
Will you be paid for using generated energy? | No | Yes | Depends on agreement with the supplier. |
Will you be paid for exporting energy into the grid? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
How long are rates locked? | No, rates can change yearly, and they can vary depending on your provider. | Rates are locked for 20 to 25 years. | Yes, rates are fixed, and depending on your agreement with your supplier, it can last for 10 to 25 years. |
Take note that you can switch your scheme from FIT to SEG for free. However, FIT payments are fixed, and SEG rates can change every year. PPA rates are also fixed for 10 to 25 years, depending on the agreement you signed with your supplier.
How does the renewable energy buyback scheme work?
The SEG (Smart Export Guarantee) was established in 2020 and has replaced FiT as the primary UK renewable energy buyback scheme. The SEG’s price is based on the market and is not a grant from the government like the FIT. To qualify for the SEG, you’ll need specific equipment, which should meet the criteria set by Ofgem.
Renewable sources of energy, including solar, wind, and hydro, have a capacity of up to 5 MW. Micro-CHPs should have a capacity of up to 50 KW
Your PV installation should have an MCS certification.
A smart meter should be installed that has been approved by your supplier.
The location of the system should be in the UK.
The SEG is the scheme used for small-scale renewable sources found in homes. For larger systems and businesses, the PPA allows them to set rates depending on their agreement with the buyer.
How to start selling solar power back to the grid
To start selling solar power back to the grid, there are numerous steps that you have to undertake. Following these steps will allow you to earn money for the energy your PV systems have generated.
The first step is to confirm your PV system certification. This means your installer should be MCS-certified.
Then, you can now install a smart or export meter that has been approved by your supplier.
Then, depending on the size of your system, you can select an SEG tariff or PPA provider. Take note that you’ll have to take note of the agreed-upon rates and that SEF tariffs can change yearly.
Next is to consider your battery sizing, which is where you can store surplus generated solar energy that you can use for your own consumption.
You can apply for grants and support programs to speed up the equipment payback and get your ROI sooner rather than later.
Lastly, make sure that the company making your installation has certifications and are reputable.
What kind of product or solution are you interested in?
Key takeaways for 2026
Exporting power when you solarize energy can help you financially and environmentally. However, the best results come from incorporating a storage system into your solar system. However, it is important to review tariffs regularly as policy changes can happen. Lastly, early planning supports and will provide better long-term value.
Request a consultation with EcoFlow today and get our experts’ opinions on home storage solutions.
FAQ
1. Is solar power worth it in the UK?
Yes, solar power is worth it in the UK because you can be eligible for grants, which can minimize the effects of a heavy initial investment when installing one. You can also earn money by selling surplus energy that your system has generated.
2. Can I sell my excess solar energy in the UK?
Yes, you can sell your surplus solar energy in the UK. When planning to do so, make sure you are eligible and pick a scheme that fits the size of your PV system. For small systems found in homes, go for the SEG scheme and PPA for larger systems.
3. How to sell excess solar power?
Check your eligibility and make sure your installer is MCS-certified. Then, install a smart meter that has been approved by your supplier. Next, select a scheme, either SEG or PPA, depending on the size of your PV system.
4. What can I do with my excess solar power?
You have the option to sell your excess solar power to your supplier or store it using a storage connected to your PV system. Selling generated energy will allow you to get paid, but using a storage can help with better long-term savings.
5. Do you get money back from using solar energy?
Yes, by selling surplus generated energy, you can earn money for exporting solar energy, depending on the rate you’ve agreed with your supplier. Using battery storage allows for better long-term savings and higher self-consumption.
