Solar panel users to be paid for excess power – but will need to wait

People who install solar from April will have to give away surplus until scheme launches

Households with solar panels are to get a guaranteed payment for excess electricity they export to the grid - but there will be a hiatus when people are expected to give it away for free.

Energy minister Claire Perry said on Tuesday she would legislate for a new market that will make energy firms compete to offer solar homes the best price for any unused energy they export.