Clean Export Guarantee
A payment for every unit (kWh) of electricity your solar panels send back to the grid, credited on your bill. The rate per unit is set by your supplier, so it is worth comparing.
Last checked July 2026
What it is
Your electricity supplier pays you for the solar electricity you send back to the grid, at a rate per unit (kWh) that shows up as a credit on your bill.
Who can get it
- You have solar panels (or other microgeneration) at home that sometimes produce more than you use
- You have a smart meter, which measures what you export
- Your microgeneration system is registered with ESB Networks (the NC6 form for smaller systems)
- Every supplier has to offer a Clean Export Guarantee, but each sets its own rate per kWh, so the amount differs and is worth comparing.
- You need a smart meter so the exported units can be measured, and your system registered with ESB Networks.
- The payment usually appears as a credit on your electricity bill rather than a separate cheque.
How to apply
Applications go through CRU / suppliers. The official page has the full eligibility rules and the application itself.
Go to the official page →Checked against the official source on 25 July 2026. Always confirm the details on the official page before applying.
Questions people ask
What is the Clean Export Guarantee?
A payment from your electricity supplier for the solar electricity you send back to the grid, at a rate per unit (kWh), credited on your bill.
How much do I get?
It depends on your supplier, as each sets its own rate per kWh. Because the rates differ, it is worth comparing suppliers.
What do I need to receive it?
A smart meter to measure what you export, and your microgeneration system registered with ESB Networks (using the NC6 form for a smaller home system).
How am I paid?
Usually as a credit on your electricity bill for the units you exported over the billing period.
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