When your solar panels generate excess electricity, you can earn payments by exporting it back to the grid. In Northern Ireland, energy suppliers offer various export payment schemes, but rates, terms, and payment structures vary significantly. Here’s a quick summary:
- EECO Energy: In partnership with Action Renewables, EECO customers currently enjoy one of the highest export rates in NI at 11.03p per kWh, along with expert installation and long-term support.
- Power NI: Offers a clear, regulated rate of 10.32p/kWh (Oct 2024 – Sep 2025) with annual payments.
- SSE Airtricity: Pays based on smart meter readings, though specific rates are not published.
- Energia: Export rates for Northern Ireland are not disclosed; customers must enquire directly.
- Bord Gáis Energy: Does not publish export payment rates, instead offering tailored quotes.
Key takeaway: While Power NI is the most transparent in publishing its regulated tariff, EECO Energy customers currently receive a better return — 11.03p per kWh via Action Renewables — alongside professional solar expertise and long-term system support.
1. EECO Energy
EECO Energy is more than just a solar installer — we help homeowners and businesses across Northern Ireland maximise their solar investment. Our team specialises in solar panel installations, battery storage, and complete renewable energy systems.
Export Payment Rates (£/kWh)
Through our partnership with Action Renewables, EECO Energy customers currently receive 11.03p per kWh for exported solar energy — one of the highest available rates in Northern Ireland. This means you start earning more for your excess power from day one.
End-to-End Support
We don’t just install your system and leave you to figure it out. EECO provides comprehensive guidance on how to optimise your exports, balance storage and consumption, and make the most of your system financially. With free surveys and quotes, a 25-year warranty, and one-day installations, we make the transition to renewable energy simple and stress-free.
Long-Term Value
Because we’re an MCS-accredited installer and a trusted partner of Duracell for advanced battery systems, you’ll not only get top-class installation but also the ability to enhance your system with smart storage. This gives you full control over when to store and when to export energy — maximising your income and savings.
2. SSE Airtricity
SSE Airtricity is a well-known energy provider in Northern Ireland, offering a programme designed to reward solar panel owners for the surplus energy they feed back into the grid. Payments are based on precise readings from smart meters, ensuring you’re compensated accurately for the energy you generate. Let’s break down the key features of their scheme.
Export Payment Structure
SSE Airtricity uses data from smart meters to calculate export payments. This approach ensures that your payments are based on the actual energy you contribute to the grid, providing clarity and accuracy in the process.
Payment Frequency
Payments are made at regular intervals, which can be particularly beneficial during times of high solar generation. This means your energy bills may reflect noticeable savings when your solar panels are most productive.
Contract Terms
The export payment service is bundled into a comprehensive contract for ease of management. This includes a fixed-term agreement with automatic renewal options and straightforward processes if you choose to switch suppliers. A smart meter is required to ensure accurate tracking of your energy exports.
Customer Support and Tools
SSE Airtricity offers dedicated support for renewable energy customers. Through their online tools, you can monitor your export history, manage bills, and find guidance on using their services. If you encounter any issues with your meter or payments, technical assistance is readily available.
3. Power NI
Power NI provides a straightforward export payment scheme designed for solar panel owners. Their system is regulated to ensure clarity and fairness.
Export Payment Rates (£/kWh)
From 1 October 2024 to 30 September 2025, Power NI offers 10.32p per kWh (£0.1032 per kWh) for exported solar energy. This rate applies to renewable generation systems with a capacity of up to 50 kW and is reviewed and approved annually by the Utility Regulator (NIAUR). The tariff year runs from October to September, with updated rates typically announced in late September each year.
Payment Frequency
Export payments from Power NI are made annually, with most customers receiving their payment in late October for the previous tariff year. However, delays can occur if meter readings need verification or if there have been changes to your meter during the year. To speed up the process, it’s a good idea to submit a photo of your meter reading when requested.
Contract Terms
Power NI operates its export scheme under annual tariff approvals from the Utility Regulator. Customers are required to submit meter readings to the Renewable team when prompted and must notify Power NI immediately about any changes to their system to prevent payment delays. Payments are deposited directly into your bank account and are kept separate from your electricity supply bill.
Customer Support and Guidance
Power NI’s Renewable team offers dedicated support to customers enrolled in the export payment scheme. Customers can manage their accounts through the "Renewable Account" online portal, where they can track payments, submit meter readings, view historical data, and upload meter reading photos.
For additional help, the Help & Support Hub provides FAQs on microgeneration and export tariffs, as well as multiple contact options, including phone, email, social media, and an AI chatbot. Accessibility support is also available for customers with additional needs. Power NI’s customer service is well-regarded, with a TrustScore of 4.3 out of 5 based on 929 reviews. Customers often highlight their quick response times and efficient problem resolution. These features, combined with an annual review process, reflect Power NI’s commitment to providing a smooth and transparent experience for solar energy exporters.
4. Energia
Energia provides solar energy solutions across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Their services include export payment options, although specific details for Northern Ireland remain unavailable.
Export Payment Rates (£/kWh)
Energia does not disclose export payment rates for Northern Ireland in their standard tariff information. However, as a point of comparison, their export rate in the Republic of Ireland is €0.20 per kWh (20 cents/kWh). It’s worth noting that rates in Northern Ireland may vary from those in the Republic of Ireland.
Payment Frequency and Contract Terms
Details about how often export payments are made and the terms of contracts for Northern Ireland customers have not been made public. This lack of transparency sets Energia apart from other suppliers who provide clearer information.
Customer Support and Guidance
Energia offers customer support through phone, email, and an online account management system. For specific information about export payment rates, payment schedules, or contract terms in Northern Ireland, customers are encouraged to get in touch with Energia directly to explore their options.
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5. Bord Gáis Energy
Bord Gáis Energy has been a trusted energy supplier in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland for years. It provides an export payment scheme for solar panel owners, but many of the key details aren’t available online. To get accurate information, you’ll need to contact the company directly for a tailored quotation.
Export Payment Rates (£/kWh)
Unfortunately, Bord Gáis Energy doesn’t make its export payment rates for Northern Ireland publicly available. To find out the specific rates, you’ll need to reach out to them for a personalised quote.
Payment Frequency
Details about how often payments are made aren’t listed either. For clarity on the payment schedule, it’s best to contact their support team.
Contract Terms
The company doesn’t publish information about its contract terms, such as duration, export requirements, or termination clauses. These details can be discussed directly with their team when you’re applying. Bord Gáis Energy does offer telephone and online support to help answer any questions you might have about their export schemes.
Customer Support and Guidance
Bord Gáis Energy provides customer support through phone and online account services. Their team is available to help with questions about export payment rates, contract terms, and payment schedules, ensuring you have the assistance you need throughout the application process.
Supplier Comparison Table
Here’s how EECO Energy stacks up against other suppliers in Northern Ireland:
| Supplier | Export Rate (£/kWh) | Payment Frequency | Contract Terms | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EECO Energy | 11.03p (via Action Renewables) | Contact for details | Tailored to customer | Highest export rate, expert solar installation, Duracell-approved storage, 25-year warranty |
| Power NI | 10.32p (1 Oct 2024 – 30 Sep 2025) | Annual | Annual tariff cycle | Transparent, regulated tariff |
| SSE Airtricity | Not disclosed | Contact for details | Contact for details | Established supplier |
| Energia | Not disclosed | Contact for details | Tailored | Strong market presence |
| Bord Gáis Energy | Not disclosed | Contact for details | Customised | Personalised support |
👉 Conclusion from the table: While Power NI publishes a transparent annual tariff, EECO Energy customers earn more per kWh (11.03p) and benefit from a complete solar partnership — from installation to export income.
Conclusion
If you want to maximise the financial return from your solar panels, EECO Energy is the clear choice in Northern Ireland. By partnering with Action Renewables, we deliver one of the highest export rates at 11.03p per kWh, significantly ahead of Power NI’s 10.32p.
But it’s not just about the rate. With EECO, you get:
- Expert solar installation with MCS accreditation
- A 25-year warranty for peace of mind
- Duracell-approved battery storage options
- End-to-end guidance on making the most of your solar energy
In a market where many suppliers don’t even publish their rates, EECO Energy combines higher payments with complete transparency, professional support, and proven results.
Switching to solar with EECO means you’ll earn more, save more, and stay supported for decades to come.
FAQs
What should I look for in an energy supplier for solar export payments in Northern Ireland?
When choosing an energy supplier for solar export payments in Northern Ireland, it’s essential to pay attention to the export tariff rate. This rate determines how much you’ll earn for every kilowatt-hour (kWh) of surplus energy you send back to the grid. Since rates can differ quite a bit, it’s a good idea to review the terms carefully.
Make sure your system is equipped to measure the energy you export accurately. This is usually done with a smart meter, which ensures precise readings. It’s also wise to pick a supplier known for clear terms and consistent rates. Opting for a provider with solid experience in renewable energy can offer added reassurance and better support for managing your solar setup.
By keeping these points in mind, you can make the most of both the financial savings and the environmental advantages of your solar energy system.
How can I make sure I receive the correct export payments from my energy supplier?
To make sure you get the right export payments from your energy supplier in the UK, the first step is to sign up for a Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) tariff, provided you meet the eligibility requirements. This scheme ensures you’re paid for the renewable energy you send back to the grid.
It’s important to regularly submit accurate meter readings to confirm how much energy you’ve exported. Keep detailed records of this exported energy, and ensure your supplier’s payment terms are clear and easy to understand. Whenever possible, compare your payments against your meter data to catch any errors. Staying organised and maintaining open communication with your supplier will help ensure you’re paid what you’re owed.
Why should I contact energy suppliers directly about export payment rates and contract terms?
When it comes to getting the best deal for your solar energy system, having a direct conversation with energy suppliers is key. This allows you to gather accurate details about export payment rates and contract terms tailored to your situation.
Under the UK’s Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme, suppliers are required to pay for the extra electricity you send back to the grid. However, the rates and conditions they offer can differ quite a bit.
By reaching out, you can explore their tariffs, understand any specific requirements, and see how well they align with your energy setup. This not only helps you make well-informed decisions but also ensures you get the most out of your solar system, boosting your export earnings and financial returns.
