Get paid for every unit of solar electricity you export to the grid
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) requires licensed electricity suppliers to pay homeowners for excess solar electricity they export to the grid. Rates are set by each supplier and vary typically from 3p to 15p per kWh. A typical 4kW solar system exporting 40% of its generation could earn £150–£500 per year depending on your supplier's rate and your usage pattern.
Must be installed by an MCS-certified installer. Get your MCS certificate after installation.
Contact your energy supplier to install a smart meter if you do not have one.
Check rates at ofgem.gov.uk/check-if-energy-price-cap-affects-you. Rates range from 3p to 15p per kWh.
Apply directly to your energy supplier for their SEG tariff. You can use any SEG-licensed supplier, not just your current one.
Export payments are typically made quarterly based on smart meter readings.
Yes — if you also qualify for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme or ECO4, SEG payments are on top of those.
Rates change regularly. Octopus Energy and Ovo Energy have historically offered competitive rates — always compare at point of application.
If your panels generate less than you use, you won't export anything and won't receive SEG payments. A battery can help maximise export.
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