If you’re investing in solar panels in Ireland, one of the first things you’ll want to know is: can you sell the excess electricity back to the grid? The answer is yes — and it’s easier than ever thanks to the Micro-generation Support Scheme (MSS). Alongside the savings solar panels offer by reducing your energy bills, exporting power to the grid can provide a small but steady income stream.
In this guide, we’ll explain how micro-generation works in Ireland, who qualifies for export payments, how much you can earn, and how EnergyServ can help ensure your system is grid-ready.
What Is the Micro-generation Support Scheme (MSS)?
The Micro-generation Support Scheme (MSS) was launched by the Irish government in 2022 to support households and small businesses that generate their own renewable electricity.
Under this scheme:
- You can export surplus electricity from your solar PV system back to the national grid.
- You will be paid for every kilowatt-hour (kWh) you export.
- Payments are made through your electricity supplier as part of your regular bill.
This means that once your solar panels are producing more energy than you use—typically during sunny days when no one’s home—you can sell that excess power and earn credits or cash from your energy provider. Typically, systems between 6 kWp and 10+ kWp can cost from €12,000 to €20,000+, depending on complexity, roof type, and add-ons like battery storage.
Who Can Sell Electricity to the Grid?
You can qualify for export payments if:
- You have a micro-generation system (up to 50 kWp for solar)
- You’re connected to the grid via an ESB Networks meter
- Your system is certified and compliant with current Irish regulations
- Your electricity supplier offers Clean Export Guarantee (CEG) payments
Most domestic systems installed by EnergyServ meet all of these requirements automatically. As long as you’ve completed the ESB Networks NC6 form and your system is set up for export, you’re eligible.
How Much Can You Earn by Selling Electricity to the Grid?
Your export earnings depend on:
- How much surplus electricity you send to the grid
- Your supplier’s export rate (Clean Export Guarantee)
As of 2024, suppliers in Ireland pay between €0.14 and €0.24 per kWh exported. Each supplier sets their own rate, so it pays to shop around.
Example:
A 4 kWp solar PV system in a typical Irish home might export 800–1,500 kWh per year, depending on usage patterns and battery storage.
- At €0.20/kWh, that equals €160 to €300 per year in export income.
Keep in mind that if you add a battery system, your exports will decrease, but your self-consumption will increase — so overall savings remain strong either way.
How Do You Start Getting Paid?
Once your system is installed:
- Your installer submits an NC6 form to ESB Networks.
- You get a smart meter (if you don’t already have one).
- Your supplier begins tracking exports and includes them on your bill.
You don’t need to apply to SEAI or Revenue separately. Payments are managed by your electricity supplier under the Clean Export Guarantee (CEG).
Should You Design Your System for Export?
In most cases, a solar PV system is designed to match your home or farm’s energy usage, not necessarily to maximise export income. That said, if you:
- Work outside the home during daylight hours
- Have high summer generation and low daytime use
- Don’t plan to install a battery — then exporting electricity can help improve the return on your solar investment.
Larger systems (e.g. 6 kWp and up) may export more consistently, especially on farms or commercial sites with varied usage throughout the year.
Does It Affect SEAI or TAMS Grants?
No. Exporting electricity has no impact on your eligibility for solar grants. Whether you’re applying for:
- We ensure all equipment is grid-compliant
- We submit the NC6 form to ESB Networks on your behalf
- We help coordinate smart meter upgrades if needed
- We advise you on battery vs non-battery system design based on your export potential
- We stay up to date with the latest export rates and regulations
With EnergyServ, you don’t just get panels — you get a solar solution designed to save, earn, and comply.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Selling Solar Power Back to the Grid?
Yes — especially if your energy usage pattern means you regularly generate more electricity than you use. While export payments won’t make you rich, they provide a reliable, passive return that can help shorten your system’s payback period.
If you’re a homeowner with a modest daytime load or a farmer with peak production in summer, exporting electricity through the Micro-generation Support Scheme makes financial and environmental sense.
To learn more about sizing a system that balances self-consumption and export potential, get in touch with the EnergyServ team for a free consultation.
