What is the Smart Export Guarantee?
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is a government-backed scheme that requires licensed electricity suppliers to pay you for renewable electricity you export to the National Grid.
Introduced in January 2020, the SEG replaced the old Feed-in Tariff (which closed to new applicants in 2019). Unlike the Feed-in Tariff, SEG rates aren't fixed by the government — suppliers set their own rates, creating competition.
This means rates vary significantly between suppliers, and shopping around can make a real difference to your earnings.
How It Works
- 1.Your solar panels generate electricity
- 2.You use what you need in your home
- 3.Surplus electricity is exported to the grid
- 4.Your smart meter records the export
- 5.Your supplier pays you for each kWh exported
Eligibility Requirements
MCS-Certified Installation
Your solar panels must be installed by an MCS-certified installer. This is mandatory for all SEG payments.
Smart or Export Meter
You need a smart meter that can measure electricity exports, or a separate export meter.
MCS Certificate
You'll receive an MCS certificate from your installer which you'll need to register for SEG.
System Under 5MW
The SEG covers systems up to 5MW, which includes all residential installations.
SEG Rate Comparison
Rates as of January 2024. Always check current rates as they change frequently.
| Supplier | Rate | Type | Requirements | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Octopus Energy | 15p/kWh | Fixed | Be an Octopus customer | One of the highest fixed rates available |
| Octopus Agile Outgoing | Variable (avg 10-20p) | Agile | Smart meter + Octopus customer | Rate changes every 30 mins based on wholesale prices. Can go negative! |
| EDF | 4.0p/kWh | Fixed | Smart meter required | Available to non-customers |
| British Gas | 3.2p/kWh | Fixed | Smart meter required | Standard SEG rate |
| E.ON Next | 4.1p/kWh | Fixed | Smart meter preferred | Available to non-customers |
| Scottish Power | 4.0p/kWh | Fixed | Smart meter required | Clean rate with no hidden conditions |
| So Energy | 5.0p/kWh | Fixed | Be a So Energy customer | Good rate for customers |
| Bulb (now Octopus) | 4.2p/kWh | Fixed | Smart meter required | Now part of Octopus Energy |
Important: SEG rates change frequently. The rates shown are indicative only. Always check the latest rates directly with suppliers before making decisions.
Typical SEG Earnings
3kW System
£75 - £200
per year (approx)
4kW System
£100 - £280
per year (approx)
6kW System
£150 - £400
per year (approx)
Earnings depend on system size, export rate, and how much you export vs use yourself. Using more electricity yourself saves more than exporting.
Maximising Your SEG Earnings
Shop Around for the Best Rate
Rates vary significantly between suppliers. A difference of just 5p/kWh on 1,500 kWh of exports equals £75 extra per year. You don't have to be a customer of your SEG provider for some tariffs.
Consider Agile Export Tariffs
Time-of-use tariffs like Octopus Agile Outgoing pay more when electricity demand is high. With a battery, you can store daytime generation and export during evening peaks.
Use More, Export Less
Remember: using your own solar electricity saves more than exporting it. At 25p+ import costs vs 5-15p export rates, self-consumption is more valuable. Schedule appliances to run during daylight hours.
Add Battery Storage
A battery lets you store excess generation for evening use, reducing both exports and grid imports. With smart tariffs, you can also export strategically when rates are highest.
How to Sign Up for SEG
Get Solar Installed by an MCS Installer
Only MCS-certified installations qualify for SEG. Your installer will provide an MCS certificate upon completion.
Ensure You Have a Smart Meter
Contact your energy supplier to upgrade to a smart meter if you don't have one. This is usually free.
Compare SEG Tariffs
Research current rates from different suppliers. You can choose any SEG provider — you don't have to stay with your electricity supplier.
Apply to Your Chosen Supplier
Apply online with your MCS certificate, meter details, and proof of installation. Most applications are processed within a few weeks.
Related Guides
MCS Certification
Learn what MCS certification means, why it matters, and how to verify an installer's credentials.
Read guideBattery Storage
Adding battery storage can help you maximise self-consumption and export strategically for higher SEG earnings.
Read guideReady to Start Earning from Your Solar?
Get quotes from MCS-certified installers and ensure you qualify for SEG payments.
Get Free Solar Quotes
Compare prices from MCS-certified installers in the UK. Free, no-obligation quotes tailored to your home.