Are solar panels worth it now export rates have changed?
Yes, solar is still worth it despite changing export rates, because the biggest saving has always come from avoiding grid electricity at around 27p per kWh, not from exporting at around 15p. Using more of your own power, ideally with a battery, matters far more than the export rate, so solar remains a strong investment.
Why export rate is not the main driver
Imported electricity costs nearly twice what exported electricity earns, so every unit you use yourself saves more than selling it would. This means the value of solar rests mainly on self-consumption, which you control through daytime usage, a battery or a diverter, not on the SEG rate offered by suppliers.
Making solar pay regardless of SEG
- Use more electricity during daylight hours.
- Add a battery to lift self-use from ~37% to ~70%.
- Shop around for the best available export tariff.
- Rising import prices increase the value of every unit you self-supply.
Frequently asked questions
- Does a lower SEG rate ruin solar's payback?
- No. Export is a bonus; the core saving is avoided imports. Self-use and a battery keep payback strong even if export rates fall.
- Should I get a battery because of SEG changes?
- A battery increases self-use, which is more valuable than exporting, so it can make sense, especially if you are out during the day.
Related questions
Indicative estimates based on UK average data. Last updated 27 May 2026.