If you’ve got solar panels on your roof but aren’t receiving anything for the energy you export back to the grid, you’re not alone. Many homeowners in the UK are in a similar position — especially those whose systems were installed under a so-called “rent-a-roof” or zero-upfront-cost scheme. The good news? In some cases, it is possible to switch and start earning through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) — but there are some hoops to jump through.
This guide breaks down what to check, how to navigate the process, and whether it’s worth the effort.
What Was a “Rent-a-Roof” Solar Panel Scheme?
Between 2010–2015, many companies offered homeowners free solar panels in exchange for signing over the Feed-in Tariff (FiT) earnings. These companies usually:
- Installed panels for no upfront cost
- Retained ownership of the system
- Claimed FiT payments for 20–25 years
Homeowners benefited from free daytime electricity but didn’t receive income from either FiT or exported energy. If that company still owns the system, you likely still cannot switch to SEG unless ownership is transferred.
Can You Switch to SEG and Get Paid for Export?
Yes — but only if you own the system and it meets MCS certification and DNO registration requirements. If the installer no longer exists, or you’ve inherited a system when buying the property, it becomes more complex.
Let’s break it down into two typical scenarios:
a) The Installer/Owner No Longer Exists
If the company that installed and owned the panels has dissolved and no ownership transfer was ever recorded:
- You’ll need legal advice or a statutory declaration to confirm ownership
- Proof of ongoing maintenance or system access may help
- SEG licensees will not accept you unless you can prove full ownership
b) The Lease Has Expired
If the 20–25 year lease has run out and the original agreement transfers ownership at that point:
- Check your original contract — look for clauses about “title transfer,” “ownership after lease,” or “FiT rights after year 25”
- If it confirms ownership has passed to you, you can proceed
If ownership is confirmed or transferred, you can pursue MCS certification and register the system to access SEG payments.
What Is MCS and Why Do You Need It?
The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) ensures solar systems are safe, properly installed, and grid-compliant.
SEG providers require that your system:
- Is MCS-certified (even retroactively)
- Is registered with your local DNO (Distribution Network Operator)
- Has a Smart Meter capable of half-hourly export readings
If your system was installed before MCS became mandatory (pre-2010) or if records were lost, you’ll need a retrospective MCS inspection and possible upgrades.
The MCS Certification Process for Existing Systems
This is where many systems fall short. Here’s what’s typically involved:
1. Solar Panels (Modules)
- Must have been MCS-approved at the time of installation
- Serial numbers and manufacturer details must be visible
- If panels can’t be verified, they may need replacing
Tip: Panels are often labelled on the back — use photos or manufacturer datasheets if needed.
2. Inverter
- Must meet G98/G99 grid compliance
- Look for labels like:
- “G98 Certified”
- Type Test Certificate number
- CE mark and anti-islanding features
- If no certificate exists, ask the manufacturer or replace the inverter
G98 inverters are often:
- Domestic-sized (under 3.68kW per phase)
- Branded by SMA, Solis, Fronius, SolarEdge, etc.
- Have label plates near the AC wiring or behind the panel
3. Electrical Safety and Wiring
- Cabling must be correctly sized, labelled, and securely routed
- Isolators must be installed on both DC (solar side) and AC (grid side)
- BS 7671 Wiring Regulations must be met
What to Look for (Non-Invasive Checks):
- Exposed wiring? 🚫 Fail.
- Cracked or sun-bleached isolator switches? ⚠️ Possible fail.
- Lack of visible labels on isolators and cable terminations? Red flag.
An MCS-registered electrician will inspect these elements and may issue a quote for corrective works if needed.
Paperwork You’ll Need
Even if your installer is gone, the following can help:
- DNO Registration (G98 or G99 form)
- Electrical Installation Certificate (EIC)
- Original commissioning documents
- Any FiT references (if FiT was claimed before)
If paperwork is missing, a site inspection may fill the gaps — but it depends on the assessor.
How Much Does MCS Certification Cost?
Prices vary by region and installer but typically include:
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Initial inspection | £150–£300 |
| MCS certification admin | £100–£200 |
| Corrective electrical work (if required) | £200–£1,000 |
| New inverter (if required) | £600–£1,200 |
Total Typical Cost: £250–£1,500 depending on system state
Is It Worth It? Comparing Lost Export Value
Even a modest solar array can export thousands of kWh per year. Here’s what that could mean in terms of SEG income:
| System Size | Annual Export (kWh) | SEG Income @ 15p/kWh | Potential 10-Year Income |
| Small (1.5kW, ~5 panels) | 900 kWh | £135/year | £1,350 |
| Medium (3.5kW, ~12 panels) | 1,600 kWh | £240/year | £2,400 |
| Large (4.5kW+, ~16 panels) | 2,400 kWh | £360/year | £3,600 |
Payback Time: If MCS certification costs you £800 and you earn £240–£360/year, your investment pays for itself in 2–3 years, with pure gain after that.
Summary: Should You Pursue SEG Certification?
✅ It’s Worth It If:
- You now own the panels (or can prove it)
- Your inverter and wiring are compliant or can be upgraded affordably
- You’re staying in the property for a few more years
❌ Maybe Not Worth It If:
- Legal ownership is unclear
- The system is old, unsafe, or needs full replacement
- Payback would take 8–10+ years
What’s Next?
If you’re interested in pursuing SEG income from your solar panels:
- Confirm ownership — dig out your contract or speak to your solicitor
- Check system condition — look for labels, faults, inverter info
- Contact an MCS-registered installer for a retrospective inspection
- Register with your DNO (your installer may do this)
- Apply to an SEG provider once MCS is confirmed and a smart meter is fitted
Need help understanding your solar setup or finding an MCS installer near you? We’re happy to offer independent advice to help you make the most of your solar investment.
Keywords: rent a roof solar scheme UK, SEG eligibility for old solar panels, MCS certification cost, switch to smart export guarantee, solar panel export payments, legacy solar FiT, DNO registration, inverter G98 compliance, solar panel wiring regulations, retrospective solar certification UK
