Smart Export Guarantee Rates 2026: Which Tariff Pays Most?
The Smart Export Guarantee pays you for surplus solar energy you export to the grid. Rates vary dramatically between suppliers — here's who pays most in 2026.
What Is the Smart Export Guarantee?
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is a UK government scheme that requires larger energy suppliers to offer tariffs paying solar panel owners for electricity they export to the National Grid. Unlike the old Feed-in Tariff, SEG rates are set by suppliers rather than the government — so rates vary significantly and change regularly.
To qualify, you need: an MCS-certified solar installation, a smart (SMETS2) meter, and a valid SEG tariff with your chosen supplier.
Best SEG Rates 2026
| Supplier | Rate | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Octopus Energy (Outgoing Octopus) | 15p/kWh | Fixed | Best fixed rate. Requires Octopus import tariff. |
| Octopus Energy (Agile Export) | Variable | Half-hourly | Can exceed 30p/kWh at peak demand times |
| EDF Energy | 12p/kWh | Fixed | No requirement to buy from EDF |
| E.ON Next | 5.6p/kWh | Fixed | Low rate but reliable |
| British Gas | 5.5p/kWh | Fixed | Available without switching import tariff |
| OVO Energy | 12p/kWh | Fixed | Good rate, requires OVO import tariff |
| Scottish Power | 5.24p/kWh | Fixed | Low but widely accessible |
How Much Can You Earn?
A typical 4kW Midlands system generates around 3,600 kWh/year. Without a battery, a household might export 60–65% of that — approximately 2,200 kWh. At different SEG rates:
- Octopus 15p: £330/year export income
- EDF 12p: £264/year export income
- British Gas 5.5p: £121/year export income
The choice of SEG tariff can make a £200+ annual difference — it's worth spending 10 minutes switching.
Should You Choose Fixed or Variable?
Octopus's Agile Export is variable — rates are set half-hourly based on wholesale electricity prices. This is complex to optimise but can pay very well during peak demand periods (typically 4–7pm on winter weekdays). A battery with smart controls (Fox ESS systems integrate with Octopus Agile natively) can time exports to maximise income.
For simplicity, Octopus's 15p fixed rate is the best guaranteed return.
How to Register for SEG
We handle SEG registration for all our customers as part of our installation service. You'll need your MCS certificate (which we provide) and to sign up for a tariff with your chosen supplier. The process typically takes 2–4 weeks after installation.
Key Takeaways
- Octopus Energy currently offers the best fixed SEG rate at 15p/kWh
- SEG rates vary from 5p to 15p+ — switching supplier can earn £200+/year more
- MCS certification is required to access SEG — ensure your installer is MCS certified
- Smart (SMETS2) meter is required
- We handle SEG registration for all Midland Solar customers
Thinking about solar for your home?
Get a free, no-obligation quote from a local MCS-certified installer based in the Midlands.