Selling Electricity Back to the Grid in Ireland: Everything You Need to Know (2026)

Yes, you can sell electricity back to the grid in Ireland. Under the Clean Export Guarantee (CEG), homeowners with solar panels receive €0.155 to €0.185 per kWh for every unit of surplus electricity they export. A typical 4kWp solar system exports 2,000-2,500 kWh per year, earning €300-€450 annually — and the first €400 is completely tax-free.

Ireland's Clean Export Guarantee scheme has made it straightforward for any household with a renewable energy system to earn money from surplus electricity. Whether you have rooftop solar panels, a small wind turbine, or another micro-generation setup, you are entitled to receive a payment for every kilowatt-hour (kWh) you send back to the national grid. This comprehensive guide covers everything Irish homeowners need to know about selling electricity back to the grid in 2026 — from current rates and supplier comparisons to the step-by-step process, tax rules, and practical tips for maximising your income.

With electricity prices remaining high and solar panel costs continuing to fall, there has never been a better time to turn your roof into a revenue-generating asset. The combination of household bill savings and export income means most solar systems now pay for themselves within 5-7 years, with decades of free electricity and ongoing payments after that. See our solar panel costs for more details.

Can You Sell Electricity Back to the Grid in Ireland?

Yes — any Irish homeowner with a renewable micro-generation system can sell surplus electricity back to the grid. This right is guaranteed under the Clean Export Guarantee (CEG), a scheme mandated by the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) that requires all licensed electricity suppliers to offer a payment for exported electricity.

The scheme has been in operation since February 2022 and applies to any household that meets these criteria:

• You have a renewable micro-generation system — solar panels are by far the most common, but small wind turbines and micro-hydro systems also qualify
• Your system is connected to the grid — off-grid systems cannot export electricity
• You have a smart meter installed — this is essential for measuring how much electricity you export
• Your system capacity does not exceed 50kW — which covers all standard residential installations (most homes install 2kW to 6kW systems)
• You have registered with your electricity supplier for their CEG tariff

The process is designed to be simple. Once you have solar panels installed and a smart meter in place, you contact your electricity supplier to register for their export tariff. From that point on, any surplus electricity your system generates — electricity that flows from your home back into the grid because you are not using it at that moment — earns you money. See our how much your panels will generate for more details.

There is no cap on how much you can export. Every unit counts. And unlike some other countries where export schemes have been reduced or withdrawn, Ireland's CEG is a permanent, legislated right for micro-generators.

How Much Can You Earn?

Your annual export income depends on three factors: the size of your solar system, how much of the electricity you generate is surplus (not used in your home), and the export rate your supplier pays. Here is a realistic breakdown based on typical Irish conditions.

System Size	Annual Generation (kWh)	Estimated Annual Export (kWh)	Income at €0.155/kWh	Income at €0.170/kWh	Income at €0.185/kWh
2kWp	1,800	900 – 1,100	€140 – €170	€153 – €187	€167 – €204
3kWp	2,700	1,400 – 1,700	€217 – €264	€238 – €289	€259 – €315
4kWp	3,600	2,000 – 2,500	€310 – €388	€340 – €425	€370 – €463
6kWp	5,400	3,200 – 4,000	€496 – €620	€544 – €680	€592 – €740

Key assumptions: These figures assume south or south-east/south-west facing panels at an optimal tilt angle (30-35 degrees), with approximately 50-65% of generated electricity exported. In practice, a household that is out during the day will export more; a household with someone home all day or running high-consumption appliances during peak generation will export less.

It is worth noting that export income is only part of the picture. The electricity you use directly from your panels (self-consumption) is even more valuable because it offsets electricity you would otherwise buy at retail rates of €0.30-€0.40 per kWh. A 4kWp system that saves you €600 in reduced bills and earns €350 in export payments delivers nearly €1,000 per year in total value.

Get your free quote to find out how much you could earn based on your roof orientation, household usage, and location.

The Clean Export Guarantee Explained

The Clean Export Guarantee (CEG) is the official mechanism through which Irish homeowners get paid for surplus electricity. Here is how it works and why it matters.

What Is the CEG?

The CEG is a regulatory obligation imposed by the CRU (Commission for Regulation of Utilities) on all licensed electricity suppliers in Ireland. Under this mandate, every supplier must offer a tariff to micro-generation customers for electricity they export to the grid. Suppliers can set their own rates — which is why prices vary — but they cannot refuse to offer a tariff.

The scheme was introduced as part of Ireland's commitment to the EU's Clean Energy Package and the national Climate Action Plan. It replaced the previous situation where homeowners had no guaranteed mechanism to be paid for exported electricity.

How Does the CEG Work in Practice?

1. Your solar panels generate electricity throughout the day
2. Your home uses what it needs — appliances, heating, lighting, hot water
3. Any surplus flows into the grid automatically through your existing connection
4. Your smart meter records both imports and exports separately
5. Your supplier calculates your export payment and applies it as a credit on your bill or makes a direct payment

You do not need any special equipment beyond your renewable energy system and a smart meter. The export happens automatically — there is no switch to flip or button to press. When your panels are generating more than your home is consuming, the excess simply flows back through the meter and into the grid.

The CRU's Role

The CRU oversees the scheme and ensures suppliers comply with their obligations. The CRU has the power to set minimum terms and conditions, investigate complaints, and enforce compliance. If you believe your supplier is not meeting their obligations under the CEG, you can contact the CRU directly.

For a detailed breakdown of how the scheme was established and its regulatory framework, see our detailed Clean Export Guarantee guide.

CEG Rates by Electricity Supplier 2026

Each electricity supplier in Ireland sets its own export rate. Here is a comprehensive comparison of the rates available in 2026. These rates are per kWh of electricity exported and may be subject to change — always confirm with your supplier before switching.

Supplier	CEG Export Rate (per kWh)	Payment Method	Contract Notes
Electric Ireland	€0.185	Bill credit	Available to all Electric Ireland customers; no lock-in for CEG
Energia	€0.170	Bill credit	Must be an Energia electricity customer; solar-specific plans available
SSE Airtricity	€0.160	Bill credit	Green energy plans with CEG included; flexible contract terms
Bord Gáis Energy	€0.155	Bill credit	Bundled offers with gas supply; CEG rate may vary by plan
Flogas	€0.160	Bill credit	Competitive rate; available nationwide
Panda Power	€0.155	Bill credit	Standard CEG offering; check current plan compatibility

Important notes about CEG rates:

• Rates shown are the standard publicly listed export tariffs as of early 2026 and are subject to change
• Some suppliers offer promotional or enhanced rates for new customers or customers on specific plans — always ask what is currently available
• The export rate is separate from your import (purchase) rate — you want to consider both when choosing a supplier
• You can switch your electricity supplier at any time without affecting your solar installation or grid connection
• All rates shown are per kWh and inclusive of any applicable charges

When choosing a supplier, consider the overall value — a slightly lower export rate combined with a lower import rate and standing charge could save you more money overall. That said, the difference between the highest and lowest CEG rates on a typical 4kWp system amounts to approximately €60-€75 per year, so it is worth paying attention to.

How to Start Selling Electricity: Step by Step

Getting set up to sell electricity back to the grid involves a clear, well-defined process. Here is every step you need to follow.

Step 1: Install a Solar Panel System

If you do not already have solar panels, this is the starting point. You need a grid-connected renewable energy system installed by an SEAI-registered installer. Most Irish homeowners opt for a 3kW to 6kW solar PV system, which typically costs €5,000 to €12,000 after the SEAI grant of up to €2,100.

Submit your details and we'll match you with a vetted SEAI-approved installer in your area for a free, no-obligation quote.

Step 2: Complete the NC6 Form

The NC6 form (also known as the Application for Connection of Micro-generation) is submitted to ESB Networks. This form notifies them that you have a micro-generation system connected to the grid. Your installer will typically complete and submit this form on your behalf as part of the installation process.

The NC6 form includes details such as:

• Your MPRN (Meter Point Reference Number) — found on your electricity bill
• The type and capacity of your micro-generation system
• Your installer's SEAI registration details
• Technical specifications of the inverter and panels

Step 3: Get a Smart Meter Installed

You need a smart meter to sell electricity. Smart meters can measure electricity flowing in both directions — imports from the grid and exports to the grid. If you do not already have one, ESB Networks will install one free of charge (see the smart meter section below for details).

Step 4: Register With Your Supplier for the CEG

Once your solar system is installed, the NC6 form is submitted, and a smart meter is in place, you contact your electricity supplier to register for their Clean Export Guarantee tariff. This typically involves:

• Calling your supplier's customer service line or registering online
• Providing your MPRN and details of your installation
• Confirming you have a smart meter
• Agreeing to the supplier's CEG terms and conditions

Most suppliers process the registration within 1-2 weeks. Once registered, your exports are tracked and paid from that point forward.

Step 5: Start Earning

With everything in place, you start earning automatically. There is nothing else to do. Your smart meter records your exports, your supplier calculates the payment, and it appears on your next bill.

Smart Meter: Do You Need One?

Yes, a smart meter is mandatory for selling electricity back to the grid. Without one, there is no way to measure how much electricity you are exporting, so your supplier cannot pay you.

Why Is a Smart Meter Essential?

Traditional electricity meters only measure electricity flowing in one direction — from the grid to your home. A smart meter measures both directions: imports (electricity you buy) and exports (electricity you sell). This two-way measurement is what allows the CEG scheme to work.

Smart meters also record your usage in 30-minute intervals, giving you detailed data on when you are generating, consuming, and exporting electricity. This information is invaluable for optimising your self-consumption and export strategy.

How to Get a Smart Meter

ESB Networks is rolling out smart meters nationwide as part of the National Smart Metering Programme. Here is how to get one:

• Check if you already have one: Look at your meter. Smart meters have a digital display and are typically marked with the manufacturer's name (Landis+Gyr or similar). If your meter was installed or replaced after 2019, it is likely a smart meter.
• Request an upgrade: If you do not have a smart meter, contact ESB Networks directly to request one. There is no charge for the meter itself or the installation.
• Priority for micro-generators: Homeowners with solar panels or other micro-generation systems are prioritised for smart meter installation.
• Typical timeline: Once requested, installation usually takes 2-6 weeks depending on your location and ESB Networks' schedule in your area.

You can request a smart meter by contacting ESB Networks at 1800 372 757 or through their website. Quote your MPRN (Meter Point Reference Number, found on the top of your electricity bill) when making the request.

How Billing Works

Understanding how you get paid for your exported electricity is important for managing expectations and finances. Here is how the billing process works with the major Irish suppliers.

Credits on Your Bill

Most suppliers apply your export earnings as a credit on your electricity bill rather than making a separate cash payment. This means your bill is reduced by the value of the electricity you exported during that billing period.

For example, if your electricity bill for the quarter is €250 and you exported enough electricity to earn €90 in CEG payments, your bill would be reduced to €160. If your export credits exceed your bill (rare but possible in summer months with large systems), the credit carries forward to the next billing period.

Billing Frequency

Supplier	Billing Cycle	Export Payment Frequency	How Export Appears
Electric Ireland	Bi-monthly	Every bill	Separate line item showing kWh exported and credit amount
Energia	Bi-monthly	Every bill	Export credit applied as a deduction
SSE Airtricity	Bi-monthly	Every bill	Itemised export credit on bill
Bord Gáis Energy	Bi-monthly	Every bill	CEG credit shown separately
Flogas	Bi-monthly	Every bill	Export credit deducted from total
Panda Power	Monthly	Every bill	Itemised export payment

Annual Settlement

Some suppliers offer an annual settlement option where unused credits are paid out at the end of a 12-month period. If your credits have accumulated beyond what your bills require, you may receive a payment or cheque. Check with your specific supplier about their settlement terms — policies vary.

Tracking Your Exports

You can monitor your export data through several channels:

• Your supplier's online portal or app — most suppliers now show import and export data
• ESB Networks' smart meter portal — provides detailed 30-minute interval data
• Your solar inverter's monitoring app — most modern inverters (SolarEdge, Enphase, Huawei, etc.) have apps showing real-time generation, consumption, and export data

Tax on Solar Export Income in Ireland

One of the most attractive aspects of selling electricity back to the grid in Ireland is the generous tax treatment. Here is what you need to know about the Revenue Commissioners' rules.

The €400 Tax-Free Threshold

The Irish government introduced a tax exemption specifically for domestic micro-generation income. The first €400 of income from selling electricity back to the grid is completely tax-free each year. This exemption applies per household, not per person.

For the vast majority of Irish homeowners with standard residential solar systems (2kW to 6kW), their annual export income falls within or close to this €400 threshold, meaning they pay no tax at all on their CEG earnings.

What If You Earn More Than €400?

If your annual export income exceeds €400 — which is possible with larger systems (6kW+) or in particularly sunny years — only the amount above €400 is taxable. This income is treated as additional income and is subject to:

• Income tax at your marginal rate (20% or 40%)
• USC (Universal Social Charge)
• PRSI if applicable

For example, if you earn €500 in export income, only €100 is taxable. At the higher marginal rate including USC and PRSI, you might pay approximately €50 in tax on that €100 — meaning you still keep €450 of the €500.

How to Declare Export Income

If your export income is under €400, you do not need to declare it on your tax return. It is fully exempt. If it exceeds €400, the additional amount should be declared as part of your annual tax return. PAYE workers can declare it through Revenue's myAccount portal under additional income. Self-employed individuals include it in their Form 11.

We recommend keeping records of your export payments (your electricity bills showing CEG credits are sufficient) in case Revenue ever requires documentation.

How to Maximise Your Export Income

While generating surplus electricity is straightforward with solar panels, there are several strategies to increase both your export income and your overall financial return from your system.

1. Right-Size Your System

A larger system generates more electricity and therefore has more potential for export — but the economics depend on your household usage pattern. A household that uses very little electricity during the day may benefit from a larger system because more generation becomes export income. Conversely, a household with high daytime usage (home office, electric vehicle charging, heat pump) might benefit more from a system sized to match their consumption.

Find out what system size would maximise your export income — get a free personalised quote tailored to your household's specific circumstances.

2. Use Battery Storage Strategically

A battery storage system gives you flexibility in when you use and export electricity. Instead of exporting cheap solar electricity during the day and buying expensive grid electricity in the evening, a battery lets you store daytime generation for evening use. This increases your self-consumption (saving you more money per kWh) while still allowing you to export when it makes financial sense.

Some homeowners programme their batteries to charge from solar during peak generation hours, power the home during evening peak rates, and export any remaining surplus. The optimal strategy depends on your tariff structure and usage patterns.

3. Shift Loads to Match Generation

Load shifting means running high-consumption appliances when your solar panels are generating the most electricity — typically between 10am and 3pm. By running your washing machine, dishwasher, tumble dryer, or immersion heater during these hours, you use your own free solar electricity rather than buying it from the grid later.

While this reduces your export volume, it increases your overall savings because self-consumed electricity is worth more than exported electricity (€0.30-€0.40 saved vs. €0.155-€0.185 earned).

4. Seasonal Awareness

Solar generation in Ireland follows a strong seasonal pattern:

Season	Relative Generation	Export Potential	Strategy
Summer (May-Aug)	High (peak output)	Very high — long days, low household demand	Maximise export; run discretionary loads midday
Spring/Autumn	Moderate	Moderate — shorter days but still good generation	Balance self-use and export
Winter (Nov-Jan)	Low	Minimal — short days, higher household demand	Focus on self-consumption; minimal export expected

Most of your annual export income — typically 70-80% — is earned between April and September. Planning around this can help manage expectations.

5. Keep Panels Clean and Unshaded

Dirty or shaded panels produce less electricity. Regular cleaning (once or twice a year is sufficient in most Irish locations due to regular rainfall) and ensuring no new shading obstacles (growing trees, new structures) affect your panels will maintain optimal output and maximise your export potential.

6. Monitor Your System

Use your inverter's monitoring app to track daily and monthly generation. If output drops unexpectedly, it could indicate a fault, dirt build-up, or shading issue. Catching and resolving these early means you do not lose weeks or months of generation and export income.

Selling Electricity Without Solar Panels: Other Options

While solar PV is by far the most popular micro-generation technology in Ireland, it is not the only option for selling electricity back to the grid. The Clean Export Guarantee applies to all renewable micro-generation technologies under 50kW.

Small Wind Turbines

Domestic wind turbines (typically 2kW to 6kW) can generate electricity for homes in exposed or elevated locations with consistent wind. They are particularly effective in western and coastal parts of Ireland where average wind speeds are higher. However, domestic wind turbines face challenges including planning permission requirements, higher installation costs compared to solar, and the need for a suitable site with good wind exposure. They are best suited to rural properties with ample land.

Micro-Hydro

If your property has access to a stream or river with sufficient flow and drop (head), a micro-hydro system can generate electricity consistently — often 24 hours a day, unlike solar which only generates during daylight. Micro-hydro systems are rare in domestic settings but can be extremely productive where conditions allow. They require planning permission and an abstraction licence from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Combined Systems

Some properties, particularly rural homes, may benefit from combining solar panels with a wind turbine. Solar generates most in summer while wind tends to be stronger in winter, providing a more balanced year-round generation profile and potentially higher total export income.

Regardless of the technology, the CEG process is the same: install the system, submit the NC6 form, get a smart meter, and register with your supplier.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to start selling electricity back to the grid?

There is no separate cost to join the CEG scheme — registration with your supplier is free, and the smart meter is installed free of charge by ESB Networks. The only investment is the renewable energy system itself. A typical 4kWp solar panel system costs €5,000-€8,000 after the SEAI grant of up to €2,100. Your installer handles the NC6 form as part of the installation process.

Do I need planning permission to install solar panels?

Most residential solar panel installations in Ireland are exempt from planning permission under the Planning and Development Regulations. You can install up to 25 square metres of panels on a house roof (or 50 square metres on a business) without planning permission, provided the panels do not extend more than 150mm from the roof surface and certain other conditions are met. Your SEAI-registered installer will advise on whether your specific installation qualifies for the exemption.

Can I sell electricity from a battery?

Yes, technically any electricity that flows from your home to the grid is measured and paid under the CEG, regardless of whether it comes directly from your solar panels or from a battery. However, you can only export electricity that was originally generated by your renewable system — you cannot buy cheap off-peak electricity, store it, and export it at a profit. Smart meters and supplier terms are designed to prevent arbitrage.

What happens at night or on cloudy days?

Your solar panels do not generate electricity at night and produce less on overcast days. During these times, you draw electricity from the grid as normal and pay your standard import rate. The CEG only applies to electricity you export — there is no payment when you are not exporting. This is why self-consumption and battery storage strategies are valuable for reducing your overall costs.

Can I be on a time-of-use tariff and the CEG at the same time?

Yes. Many suppliers offer time-of-use tariffs (where electricity costs different amounts at different times of day) alongside the CEG. This can be an excellent combination — you export solar electricity during the day and benefit from cheaper night-rate electricity. Check with your supplier for compatible plan options.

What if I switch electricity supplier?

You can switch suppliers at any time without affecting your solar installation or grid connection. You will need to register for the new supplier's CEG tariff, but the process is straightforward. Your MPRN and smart meter stay the same. Some suppliers offer attractive switching deals that include competitive CEG rates.

Is there a minimum system size to qualify?

There is no minimum system size for the CEG. Even a small 1kW system qualifies. However, smaller systems generate less surplus electricity, so the export income is proportionally lower. Most Irish homeowners find that a 3kW to 6kW system provides the best balance of cost, self-consumption savings, and export income.

How long does it take to get set up?

The typical timeline from decision to first export payment is 6-12 weeks. This includes the installation (1-2 days of actual work, but scheduling may take 2-6 weeks), NC6 form processing (1-2 weeks), smart meter installation if needed (2-6 weeks), and supplier registration (1-2 weeks). Some of these steps happen in parallel.

Can I sell electricity if I rent my home?

The solar system must be installed on the property with the owner's permission. If you are a tenant, you would need your landlord's agreement to install panels. The CEG registration is linked to the MPRN (the property), not the individual, so whoever is the electricity account holder at that property would receive the export payments.

What happens to my exported electricity?

The electricity you export flows into the national grid and is used by other consumers nearby. It reduces the total amount of electricity that needs to be generated by power stations, thereby reducing Ireland's carbon emissions. Every kWh you export is a kWh of clean, renewable energy that replaces fossil fuel generation.

Will export rates increase in the future?

Export rates are set by individual suppliers and are subject to market conditions. While there is no guarantee that rates will increase, the Irish government's strong commitment to renewable energy targets (80% renewable electricity by 2030) and the ongoing need to incentivise micro-generation suggest that competitive CEG rates will continue. The CRU monitors the scheme and has the power to intervene if rates become unreasonably low.

Can I sell electricity from solar panels on a shed or garage?

Yes. The CEG does not restrict where on your property the panels are located. Panels can be on your house roof, garage, shed, or even ground-mounted. As long as the system is connected to your home's electrical supply (and therefore to the grid via your meter), exported electricity qualifies for payment. Ground-mounted systems and outbuilding installations may have different planning permission requirements — check with your local authority or installer.

Do I need to be home for the system to export?

No. In fact, you export the most when you are not home because your household consumption is at its lowest. The system operates completely automatically. When generation exceeds consumption, surplus electricity flows to the grid without any intervention needed.

What is the SEAI grant for solar panels in 2026?

The SEAI (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland) provides grants of up to €2,100 for solar PV installations on homes built and occupied before 2021. The grant covers a portion of the installation cost and is applied directly by your SEAI-registered installer — you pay the net amount after the grant is deducted. Get a free quote to see your costs after the SEAI grant.

Still have questions about selling electricity back to the grid? Get in touch with our team — we are happy to help you understand your options and connect you with a trusted, SEAI-approved installer in your area.