What is Clean Export Guarantee (CEG)?
An Irish scheme where electricity suppliers pay homeowners for excess solar electricity exported to the grid.
Quick Answer
Irish electricity suppliers currently offer export rates of 18–24 cents per kWh under the CEG, though rates are set by individual suppliers and can change. You need a smart meter and a registered microgeneration connection to qualify. The CEG replaced the earlier pilot microgeneration scheme and provides a guaranteed route to payment for exported solar electricity.
Fact-checked by John Rooney, Solar Energy Editor. Editorial policy
Clean Export Guarantee (CEG) Explained
The Clean Export Guarantee (CEG) is a scheme that requires Irish electricity suppliers to offer a payment to microgeneration customers for surplus electricity exported to the national grid. It was introduced as part of Ireland's Microgeneration Support Scheme (MSS) to encourage small-scale renewable energy generation. Under the CEG, suppliers set their own export tariff rates, creating a competitive market. Homeowners with solar PV systems and a smart meter can earn money for every kWh of electricity they do not use themselves.
How Does Clean Export Guarantee (CEG) Work in Ireland?
Irish electricity suppliers currently offer export rates of 18–24 cents per kWh under the CEG, though rates are set by individual suppliers and can change. You need a smart meter and a registered microgeneration connection to qualify. The CEG replaced the earlier pilot microgeneration scheme and provides a guaranteed route to payment for exported solar electricity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I earn from the Clean Export Guarantee?
Export rates vary by supplier, typically 18–24 cents per kWh. A 4kWp system exporting 1,500–2,000 kWh per year could earn €270–€480 annually, depending on your self-consumption rate.
Do I need a smart meter for the CEG?
Yes. ESB Networks must install a smart meter that records both imports and exports before you can receive CEG payments.
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John Rooney is the founder of Solar Info and has been covering the Irish solar energy market since 2023. He fact-checks all content against official SEAI data and maintains relationships with SEAI-registered installers across Ireland.