The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is the UK government scheme that requires licensed electricity suppliers to pay you for surplus solar energy you export to the grid. Since its introduction in January 2020, SEG tariffs have improved significantly, with smart tariffs now offering rates of 25-27p/kWh during peak periods. For solar panel owners in East Anglia, the SEG represents a valuable income stream alongside direct electricity savings.
How Does the SEG Work?
When your solar panels generate more electricity than your home is using, the surplus is exported to the national grid. Under the SEG, your chosen energy supplier pays you for every kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity you export. The rate you receive depends on which supplier and tariff you choose.
There are two main types of SEG tariff: fixed-rate tariffs that pay a set amount per kWh regardless of when you export, and smart (time-of-use) tariffs that pay different rates depending on the time of day. Smart tariffs pay significantly more during peak demand periods (typically 4pm-7pm) and less during off-peak times.
SEG Tariff Comparison
| Provider | Tariff Name | Export Rate | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Octopus Energy | Flux | 25-27p/kWh (peak) | Smart (time-of-use) |
| Octopus Energy | Fixed SEG | 4-5p/kWh | Fixed rate |
| British Gas | SEG | 3-4p/kWh | Fixed rate |
| EDF | SEG | 3-4p/kWh | Fixed rate |
| E.ON | SEG | 3-5p/kWh | Fixed rate |
| Scottish Power | SEG | 3-4p/kWh | Fixed rate |
Rates shown are indicative and subject to change. Smart tariff rates vary by time period. Always check current rates directly with the provider.
Octopus Flux: The Game Changer
Octopus Flux pays 25-27p/kWh for electricity exported during peak hours (4pm-7pm). With battery storage, you can store your daytime solar generation and export it during these peak windows, earning 5-8x more than standard SEG tariffs. This is why we recommend battery storage for maximum SEG income.
SEG Requirements
How to Sign Up for the SEG
Get Solar Panels Installed
Have your solar panels installed by an MCS-certified installer. We provide your MCS certificate upon completion, which you will need for your SEG application.
Get a Smart Meter
If you do not already have a SMETS2 smart meter, contact your electricity supplier to arrange a free installation. This is required for export measurement.
Choose Your SEG Provider
Compare SEG tariffs (see our table above) and choose the best rate. Remember, your SEG provider does not have to be the same as your electricity supplier.
Apply to Your Chosen Provider
Submit your application with your MCS certificate, meter details, and installation information. Most providers process applications within 2-4 weeks.
Start Earning
Once approved, you receive quarterly payments for all electricity exported to the grid. Monitor your exports via your smart meter or solar monitoring app.
Earnings Calculations
Annual SEG Earnings by System Size
Maximise Earnings with Battery Storage
Without a battery, most solar export happens during the middle of the day when tariff rates are lowest. A battery allows you to store solar energy and export it during peak rate windows (4pm-7pm on Octopus Flux), earning 5-8x more per kWh exported. Read our battery storage guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a smart meter for the SEG?
Yes. A smart meter (SMETS2) or advanced meter capable of recording export data at half-hourly intervals is required to receive SEG payments. If you do not have a smart meter, your energy supplier will install one free of charge. Most smart tariffs like Octopus Flux require half-hourly settlement data from a smart meter.
Can I switch SEG provider without changing my electricity supplier?
Yes. Your SEG export tariff is completely separate from your electricity import supply. You can be on one supplier for your electricity and a different licensed supplier for your SEG export payments. This means you can shop around for the best export rates independently.
How much can I realistically earn from the SEG?
Earnings vary significantly depending on your system size, battery storage, and chosen tariff. A 4kW solar system without battery typically exports 1,500-2,000 kWh per year. On a standard 4-5p/kWh SEG tariff, that is £60-£100 per year. With Octopus Flux at 25-27p/kWh and battery storage to maximise peak exports, earnings can reach £300-£500+ per year.
Do I need MCS certification to get SEG payments?
Yes. Your solar panel system must be installed by an MCS-certified installer (like Green Hat Renewables) and you must have an MCS certificate for your installation. This certificate confirms your system meets quality and safety standards. Without it, you cannot register for SEG payments.
Is the SEG the same as the old Feed-in Tariff?
No. The Feed-in Tariff (FiT) closed to new applicants in March 2019 and paid for both generation and export. The SEG only pays for exported electricity, not for what you generate. However, the best smart export tariffs now offer rates comparable to or higher than the old FiT export rates.
