SEG tariff comparison: find the best export rate for your solar
Compare UK Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) tariffs, understand what affects your export payments, and see when switching your import tariff matters just as much as the export rate.
- See how SEG rates work (fixed vs variable vs smart export)
- Check eligibility, metering requirements and common exclusions
- Use our checklist and examples to estimate what you could earn
Estimates only. SEG rates, eligibility and terms vary by supplier, meter type and export set-up. Always check supplier T&Cs before switching.
Fast answer: how to compare SEG tariffs (UK)
A good SEG tariff comparison is less about finding “the highest rate” and more about matching the tariff to your export setup and import costs. Most households should compare:
1) Export rate type
Fixed p/kWh, variable, or “smart” (half-hourly / time-of-use export). Smart can pay more at peak times, but won’t suit everyone.
2) Metering & eligibility
Most SEG tariffs require a smart meter capable of export readings and proof your system meets standards (often MCS or equivalent).
3) Whole-of-market impact
A great export rate can be outweighed by a pricey import tariff. Compare your import unit rate + standing charge at the same time.
Key takeaway: Your SEG earnings depend mainly on how much you export (kWh), not just the rate. Households with batteries or high self-consumption may export less, so import tariff choice can matter more.
What is a SEG tariff (and what it isn’t)?
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is a UK scheme that lets eligible households get paid for surplus renewable electricity they export to the grid (most commonly from solar PV). Licensed suppliers with enough customers must offer at least one SEG tariff.
- You’re paid for:
- Measured export (kWh) recorded by an export-capable smart meter (or other eligible metering, depending on the supplier).
- You’re not paid for:
- Electricity you use in your home (self-consumption). That benefit shows up as a lower import bill instead.
- SEG is different from:
- The older Feed-in Tariff (FIT) scheme (now closed to new applicants), which paid for generation and export under separate rules.
Practical point: Many suppliers let you have your import tariff with one provider and your SEG export tariff with another, but not all do. Always confirm how the supplier handles separate import/export accounts and billing.
Compare energy & export options
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What affects your SEG earnings?
- Exported kWh: bigger systems don’t always export more if you use more in the home.
- Battery storage: can reduce export (and SEG income) if you store energy instead.
- Export meter readings: actual readings vs estimates; half-hourly data can change payouts on smart export tariffs.
- Tariff structure: fixed p/kWh vs time-based export rates.
- Import tariff: unit rate and standing charge still matter for evening/winter use.
- Eligibility & paperwork: MCS (or equivalent), DNO notification, meter compatibility.
- Payment frequency: monthly/quarterly; and whether credit is paid out or applied to bills.
- Contract terms: notice periods, rate change terms (especially variable tariffs).
SEG tariff comparison: what to look at (not just the p/kWh)
The table below is a decision guide to help you compare SEG tariffs consistently. Rates change frequently, so treat supplier pages and your quote as the final word.
| Comparison factor | Why it matters | Good fit | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Export rate type Fixed / variable / smart |
Determines how predictable your payments are and whether export timing affects income. | Fixed for simplicity; smart export if you can shift export to higher-price periods. | Variable rates can change; smart export may require half-hourly readings and can be more complex. |
| Metering requirement | You usually need an export-capable smart meter for accurate export readings. | You already have a working smart meter with export configured. | Some meters aren’t set up for export initially; installation/updates can take time via supplier/DNO processes. |
| Proof of eligibility MCS/equivalent |
Suppliers often require certificates and evidence your system meets standards. | You have MCS certificate (or accepted equivalent) and DNO paperwork. | Older installs may have missing documentation; ask the installer or check what the supplier will accept. |
| Do you need import with them? | Affects your ability to pick a cheap import tariff elsewhere while keeping a good SEG export rate. | You want one supplier for simplicity, or the supplier allows separate import/export. | If import is required, you must weigh export earnings against potentially higher import costs. |
| Payments & billing Frequency & method |
Cash payments vs bill credit; monthly vs quarterly can affect budgeting. | Clear schedule, transparent statements, and easy meter reading submission (if needed). | Some suppliers offset export credit against import bills; check how and when you can withdraw credit, if at all. |
Decision checklist (quick)
- Do you have an export-capable smart meter and is export actually being recorded?
- Can you provide MCS certificate (or supplier-accepted equivalent) and DNO notification?
- Do you want import and export with the same supplier, or keep them separate?
- Are you on (or considering) a time-of-use import tariff because you have a battery or EV?
- Is the SEG rate fixed/variable, and how often can it change?
- How are you paid: cash payout or bill credit?
Who SEG switching tends to suit
- You export a meaningful amount in spring/summer.
- You can meet the paperwork and metering requirements.
- You’re happy to manage a separate export account if needed.
Not always ideal: if you export very little (high self-use, or battery soaks up most surplus), the difference between SEG rates may be modest compared with improving your import tariff.
Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (SEG)
SEG tariffs are straightforward once set up, but households often hit delays or disappointment because of paperwork, metering, or assumptions about export volumes.
1) Export meter not configured
You may have a smart meter but export readings aren’t flowing. Ask your supplier whether export is set up and how readings are collected (half-hourly vs daily/monthly).
2) “High rate” but expensive import
If the SEG tariff requires you to take import with the same supplier, check the import unit rate and standing charge. A small export boost can be outweighed by higher import costs.
3) Documentation gaps
Suppliers commonly request MCS (or equivalent), inverter details and proof of DNO notification. Missing documents can delay start dates.
Two realistic scenarios (with numbers)
Important: These are worked examples to show how to compare. Your actual export depends on system size, orientation, shading, season, occupancy and battery/EV charging behaviour.
Scenario A: solar PV, no battery, typical daytime export
- Assumed annual export: 1,800 kWh
- SEG Tariff 1: 5p/kWh fixed
- SEG Tariff 2: 15p/kWh fixed
Estimated annual SEG payment:
Tariff 1: 1,800 × £0.05 = £90/year
Tariff 2: 1,800 × £0.15 = £270/year
Difference: about £180/year
If moving to the higher SEG rate forces you onto a higher import tariff, compare that extra import cost against the ~£180/year export upside.
Scenario B: solar PV + battery, lower export but more self-use
- Assumed annual export: 700 kWh (battery stores more surplus)
- SEG Tariff 1: 5p/kWh fixed
- SEG Tariff 2: 15p/kWh fixed
Estimated annual SEG payment:
Tariff 1: 700 × £0.05 = £35/year
Tariff 2: 700 × £0.15 = £105/year
Difference: about £70/year
In this scenario, your bigger win may come from choosing an import tariff that matches how you charge the battery (for example, cheaper overnight electricity), rather than chasing a higher export rate.
Other exclusions to check
- Minimum export volumes: uncommon, but check terms.
- Tariff availability: may vary by supplier policy and metering setup.
- Payment method: some pay by bank transfer, others as bill credit.
- Rate changes: variable export rates can move; understand notice and how it’s set.
- Start date delays: account setup, meter configuration, and data flows can take time.
Tip: Keep your first export statement. It’s the quickest way to confirm (1) export is being recorded and (2) the rate applied matches what you signed up to.
SEG tariff comparison FAQs
Do I need a smart meter for SEG?
In most cases, yes. Suppliers typically require a smart meter that can provide export readings. Some may accept alternative arrangements, but smart export measurement is the usual route.
Can I have one supplier for import and a different one for SEG export?
Often, yes—but it depends on the supplier’s policy and how your meter readings are handled. When comparing, confirm whether the SEG provider requires you to take your import tariff with them.
What paperwork do I need to sign up to SEG?
Common requirements include an MCS certificate (or accepted equivalent), details of your installation (e.g., inverter), and confirmation your system complies with relevant standards and has been notified to the DNO where required. Exact requirements vary by supplier.
How much will I earn from SEG?
It depends on how many kWh you export and your tariff rate. As a simple estimate: annual export (kWh) × rate (£/kWh). If you add a battery or use more power during the day, your exports (and SEG income) may fall.
Is a variable SEG tariff risky?
Not necessarily, but it’s less predictable. A variable export rate can change in line with supplier terms (and may track market conditions). Check how changes are communicated and whether you can leave easily if the rate becomes uncompetitive.
What if my export readings look wrong?
Start by checking your inverter/app readings against your export statement (they won’t match perfectly). If export appears too low or missing, ask your supplier to confirm the meter is set up to send export data and that they’re receiving it. Keep copies of statements and correspondence.
Do SEG payments affect tax?
For most households, SEG income is small, but tax treatment can depend on your circumstances. If you’re unsure, check HMRC guidance or seek professional advice. (EnergyPlus can’t provide tax advice.)
How long does it take to start receiving SEG payments?
It varies. Setup can take from a few weeks to longer if meter configuration or documentation is missing. Ask the supplier what they need upfront and when they’ll confirm your SEG start date.
Trust, methodology and sources
Editorial details
- Written by: EnergyPlus Editorial Team
- Reviewed by: Energy Specialist
- Last updated: March 2026
How we assess SEG comparisons (our approach)
This guide is designed to help you compare SEG tariffs in a way that matches how UK households actually experience export payments.
- We prioritise user outcomes: net impact, not just headline export p/kWh.
- We check terms that change the real value: whether import must be taken with the same supplier, how export is measured (e.g., half-hourly), and how/when you’re paid.
- We use transparent maths: example earnings are calculated as export kWh × export rate, with assumptions shown next to the figures.
- We include limitations: export volumes vary by season, system design, household behaviour, and battery/EV charging patterns; supplier eligibility rules and rates can change.
Limitation: We do not publish a live “best SEG rate” leaderboard on this page because SEG rates and eligibility criteria can change quickly. Use the comparison form to get current options tailored to your postcode and setup.
Ready to compare SEG tariffs with your import costs?
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