What is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)?

The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is a UK government scheme that requires licensed energy suppliers with 150,000 or more customers to offer payments to small-scale low-carbon electricity generators — including solar panel owners — for the electricity they export to the National Grid. It replaced the Feed-in Tariff in January 2020.

How much can I earn from SEG in 2026?

SEG tariff rates vary by supplier. Current rates range from 3p to 15p per kWh, with some flexible tariff providers offering time-of-use rates that can reach higher during peak demand. A typical 4kW solar system exports around 1,200 kWh per year, earning approximately £60–£180 annually at current rates.

Which energy suppliers offer the best SEG rates?

As of 2026, Octopus Energy, E.ON and Scottish Power are among the more competitive SEG providers. Rates change frequently, so it is worth comparing using Ofgem's official comparison tool. Some suppliers offer flat rates while others offer flexible, time-of-use tariffs that can be more lucrative.

Do I need a smart meter to get SEG payments?

Yes, you need a smart meter or an export meter to receive SEG payments. The meter must be capable of measuring exactly how much electricity you export to the grid. Your energy supplier will arrange this when you sign up for SEG.

Can I still claim SEG if I have a battery storage system?

Yes — battery storage does not affect your SEG eligibility. In fact, a battery system can help you maximise SEG earnings by storing energy during the day and exporting it during peak-price hours (for time-of-use tariffs). We recommend pairing battery storage with an Octopus Intelligent or similar time-of-use tariff.

How do I apply for the Smart Export Guarantee?

To apply for SEG, contact your chosen energy supplier directly. You will need your MCS certificate (which Midland Solar provides on completion), proof of your system's size and installation date, and your meter details. The process typically takes 4–6 weeks from application to receiving your first payment.

Smart Export Guarantee Guide 2026 | SEG Rates & How to Apply

What is the Smart Export Guarantee?

The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is a government-backed scheme that ensures solar panel owners are paid for every unit of electricity they export to the National Grid. Introduced in January 2020 to replace the Feed-in Tariff (FiT), the SEG is a legal requirement for energy suppliers with 150,000+ customers.

Unlike the old Feed-in Tariff, the SEG does not guarantee a specific rate — instead, competing suppliers set their own tariffs, creating a market where homeowners can shop around for the best deal. Rates range from 3p to over 15p per kWh depending on the supplier and tariff type.

How Much Can You Earn?

4kW System

Export: ~1,200 kWh/yr

£60 – £180/yr

6kW System

Export: ~1,800 kWh/yr

£90 – £270/yr

10kW System

Export: ~3,000 kWh/yr

£150 – £450/yr

Based on 3–15p/kWh SEG rates. Actual figures depend on your system, energy usage and supplier tariff.

Best SEG Rates 2026

Here are the current SEG tariffs from major UK energy suppliers. Rates change regularly so check your supplier's website for the most up-to-date information.

Supplier	Rate	Type	Notes
Octopus Energy	Up to 15p/kWh	Flexible (time-of-use)	Best for battery storage owners
E.ON Next	5.5p/kWh	Fixed flat rate	Simple, guaranteed payment
Scottish Power	4p/kWh	Fixed flat rate	Reliable flat rate
British Gas	3.5p/kWh	Fixed flat rate	Large supplier stability
EDF Energy	3p/kWh	Fixed flat rate	Straightforward export payment

SEG Eligibility Requirements

Your solar panel system must be 5MW or smaller (virtually all domestic systems qualify)
The system must be MCS certified — Midland Solar provides this certification as standard
You must have a smart meter or export meter installed
You must be a customer of an SEG-licenced supplier (all major suppliers participate)
You cannot claim SEG if you are still receiving Feed-in Tariff payments

How to Maximise Your SEG Earnings

Choose a time-of-use tariff

Suppliers like Octopus Energy offer higher rates during peak demand periods. With a battery, you can store energy and export at the highest-rate times.

Add battery storage

A battery system lets you store surplus solar energy rather than exporting it cheaply, then export (or use) it at optimal times.

Switch suppliers regularly

SEG rates change frequently. Check comparison sites annually and switch to maximise your export income.

Reduce self-consumption first

The most valuable unit of solar electricity is one you use yourself. Shift energy-intensive tasks to daylight hours before maximising exports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Start Earning with SEG?

Get MCS certified solar panels installed and start receiving SEG payments. Our team handles all the paperwork and certification.

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Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) Guide 2026