Solar export in Ayrshire
Quick answer
How does solar export work for Ayrshire homes?
Ayrshire panels produce around 845 kWh per kWp a year, based on Ayr, so a 4kW roof system could generate roughly 3,380 kWh. Electricity you do not use flows onto the SP Energy Networks grid, and a supplier pays you for each exported unit under a Smart Export Guarantee tariff, provided the system is MCS certified.
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Covering Ayr, Kilmarnock, Irvine, Troon, Largs, Girvan and nearby.
Coastal towns, dairy farms and sea air
Ayrshire's coast from Largs and Ardrossan down to Troon, Prestwick, Ayr and Girvan is open to westerly weather off the Firth of Clyde. Sea air can be harder on metal fixings, so installers choose suitable mounting components and check the roof's condition before fitting panels.
Inland, Kilmarnock, Cumnock and the Irvine valley have many terraced and semi-detached homes, while Ayrshire's dairy and livestock farms often have large shed roofs and daytime electricity use for milking and cooling.
Local generation estimate for Ayr
Using PVGIS data and the MCS MIS 3002 method, Ayr averages about 845 kWh per kWp a year. A 4kW system would produce around 3,380 kWh. If about 65% is exported, that is roughly 2,197 kWh a year sent to the grid. These are estimates, not a promise of income, and what you are paid depends on your supplier's export rate. Your own figure depends on roof direction, pitch, shading and how much electricity you use at home.
Connecting to the grid in Ayrshire
The local electricity network here is run by SP Energy Networks (SPEN). Most home systems up to 3.68kW per phase are notified under G98 after installation. Larger systems, or a battery that takes total inverter capacity above that limit, need a G99 application before connection. Our installation partner handles this paperwork for you.
Choosing an export tariff
Export payments come from your electricity supplier under the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), not from the network operator. Suppliers set their own rates and change them often. Published rates by supplier:
- Octopus Outgoing (12p/kWh)
- E.ON Next (12p/kWh)
- British Gas (9p/kWh)
- Scottish Power (8p/kWh)
Rates change, check the supplier. Last checked August 2026.
Suppliers ask for an MCS certificate before paying for exports. We install through MCS-certified partners, so your system comes with the paperwork suppliers need.
Neighbouring areas
Useful pages
Solar export questions in Ayrshire
Does sea air affect solar panels on the Ayrshire coast?
Salt in the air can be harder on fixings over time, so installers use suitable mounting components and the system should be checked periodically. Panels themselves are built to withstand outdoor conditions.
Who runs the grid in Ayrshire?
SP Energy Networks runs the electricity network across North, East and South Ayrshire. Most home systems are notified under G98, and larger ones need a G99 application.
Can an Ayrshire dairy farm use solar during milking?
Yes. Daytime milking, cooling and lighting can use solar electricity directly, and any surplus can be exported. A battery can help cover early morning and evening use.
Get a solar quote in Ayrshire
No obligation. We install through MCS-certified partners across Scotland.