SEG tariff comparison: find the best export rate for your solar

Compare Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) tariffs across UK suppliers. Learn how SEG works, what you’ll be paid for surplus solar, and what to check before you switch.

  • Understand fixed vs variable SEG export rates (and when each suits you)
  • Check eligibility: MCS certificate, smart export meter, and supplier terms
  • See realistic examples with estimated annual export income
Compare export tariffs How SEG works in the UK

Rates and eligibility vary by supplier and can change. The figures on this page are estimates to help you compare options.

SEG tariff comparison: the fast answer

A SEG tariff pays you for the electricity you export to the grid from solar panels (or other eligible low-carbon generation). You can compare SEG tariffs by looking at the pence per kWh export rate, whether it’s fixed or variable, and any eligibility rules (for example: MCS certificate, smart export meter type, and whether you must also buy your import electricity from the same supplier).

Key takeaways

  • Higher export rate isn’t the only factor: check contract type, payment frequency, and any import tariff tie-in.
  • Fixed rates can be easier to budget; variable rates can rise or fall with supplier changes.
  • You’ll usually need smart meter export readings (or equivalent) and an MCS certificate (or accepted equivalent evidence for older installs, depending on supplier).
  • SEG is separate from your import tariff. You may be able to switch export without changing import, but many suppliers set conditions.

What you’ll need to compare properly

Your annual export (kWh)
From your inverter/app, smart meter, or SEG statements. If you don’t have it, use a cautious estimate (we show how below).
Your metering setup
Smart meter capable of half-hourly readings (where required) and export measurement.
Eligibility documents
MCS certificate (or supplier-accepted alternative), commissioning date, and proof you own/operate the system.

Important: SEG payments are for exported electricity only. Your biggest financial benefit from solar is often from using more of your generation at home (self-consumption). SEG is still worth comparing because export rates and rules can materially change the value of your surplus.

How SEG works (UK): what you get paid for

The Smart Export Guarantee is a scheme that requires larger electricity suppliers in Great Britain to offer at least one export tariff to eligible microgenerators. In simple terms:

  1. You generate electricity (typically solar PV).
  2. You use what you can at home. Anything you can’t use may flow back to the grid.
  3. Your export meter measures exported kWh (often via a smart meter).
  4. Your SEG supplier pays you based on exported kWh × the SEG rate (p/kWh), according to their payment terms.

Key UK details to check before you switch

Eligibility: Most suppliers require MCS certification and an installation size within microgeneration limits.

Metering: Some tariffs require half-hourly export data; ensure your smart meter supports this.

Tie-ins: You may need to take the supplier’s import tariff too (or they may prioritise existing customers).

Payments: Monthly vs quarterly, minimum payout thresholds, and whether they pay by bank transfer/credit.

Great Britain vs Northern Ireland: SEG is a GB scheme. If you’re in Northern Ireland, export arrangements can differ—check local supplier offerings and scheme rules before relying on SEG guidance.

Get a tailored comparison

Tell us a few basics and we’ll help you compare import and export options available to you. This is designed for UK homes (not business energy).

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Tip: If you’re unsure whether your smart meter records export, look for “Export kWh” on your in-home display or recent meter readings, or check with your current supplier.

Two realistic SEG income scenarios (with numbers)

These examples show how export rate and exported kWh combine. They’re illustrative and don’t include any potential changes to your import costs if you switch supplier.

Scenario A: Typical household exporting a moderate amount

Assumed annual export
1,200 kWh (e.g., solar household using more power in daytime)
SEG rate (example)
10p per kWh (fixed)
Estimated annual SEG payment
£120/year (1,200 × £0.10)

If your supplier pays quarterly, you might see roughly £30 per quarter, depending on meter reads and billing cycle.

Scenario B: Higher export (e.g., away in the day or larger system)

Assumed annual export
2,500 kWh
SEG rate (example)
15p per kWh (variable)
Estimated annual SEG payment
£375/year (2,500 × £0.15)

If the rate is variable, the total could be higher or lower over the year depending on supplier changes.

Reality check: Export volumes vary a lot by season, household occupancy, and whether you have a battery or hot water diverter. Use your own export readings where possible.

SEG tariff comparison: what to compare (and why)

Supplier SEG tariffs change and eligibility rules differ, so rather than listing live rates (which can become outdated), this table shows the practical comparison points that determine whether a tariff is genuinely good for your home.

Comparison factor What it means Why it matters What to ask/check
Export rate (p/kWh) Amount paid per unit exported Directly impacts your export income Is it the same rate 24/7? Any tiers or caps?
Fixed vs variable Whether rate can change during the contract Variable tariffs can change; fixed can offer certainty How often can they change the rate? Any notice period?
Import tie-in Whether you must buy your electricity from them too A high export rate may be offset by a higher import unit rate/standing charge Can you take SEG-only? If not, what’s the import tariff name & terms?
Meter requirements Smart export metering, half-hourly reads, etc. You may be ineligible or face delays without the right setup Do they require half-hourly export data? Who arranges meter changes?
Payments Monthly/quarterly; bank transfer/credit; minimum payout Affects cash flow and whether small exports get paid promptly How often do they pay? Any minimum balance threshold?
Exit fees / contract terms Fees for leaving early (where applicable) Important if you want flexibility to change tariffs Are there exit fees? How long is the term?

Why we don’t publish a single “best SEG tariff” list: rates and conditions can change quickly, and the “best” export rate can be poor value if it forces you onto an expensive import tariff. We focus on helping you compare the full picture for your home.

Decision checklist: who SEG switching suits (and who it doesn’t)

SEG switching usually suits you if…

  • You have clear export readings and want to maximise value from surplus generation.
  • You can meet the supplier’s metering requirements without hassle or long delays.
  • Your current SEG rate is low, or payments are infrequent, and you’re happy to compare terms.
  • You’re also reviewing your import electricity tariff (unit rate, standing charge, and any time-of-use structure).

It may not be worth it right now if…

  • Your export is minimal because you use most solar on-site (high self-consumption), and the switch would force an expensive import tariff.
  • You don’t yet have an export-capable smart meter and the supplier requires half-hourly data.
  • You’re in a fixed import deal with exit fees and the SEG tariff is tied to switching import too.
  • Your system paperwork is missing and the supplier won’t accept alternative evidence.

Quick calculation (2 minutes)

Estimated annual SEG value ˜ Export kWh per year × SEG rate (£/kWh)

Example: 1,800 kWh export × 12p = £216/year.

Then compare what you might pay on import if the SEG requires switching your electricity supply too.

Costs, exclusions and common pitfalls (UK)

SEG is straightforward once set up, but switching or applying can be slowed down by metering, paperwork, and tariff conditions. These are the issues we see most often for UK homes.

1) Import tariff costs outweigh export gains

A high export rate can look great, but if it requires moving onto a higher import unit rate or standing charge, your overall bill can rise. Always compare import + export together.

2) Smart meter/export readings aren’t set up

Some homes have a smart meter for import but no working export register, or the supplier can’t retrieve export reads yet. This can delay payments and switching.

3) Paperwork gaps (MCS, commissioning date)

If you’ve moved into a property with solar, you might not have the original certification documents. Some suppliers may accept alternatives; others may not.

4) Payment frequency and thresholds

Quarterly payments are common; some tariffs apply minimum payout levels or pay as a bill credit. If you export small amounts, it affects how quickly you see money.

5) Time-of-use and half-hourly data conditions

Some deals pair SEG with time-of-use import tariffs and require half-hourly smart meter readings. That can be a good fit, but only if your usage pattern matches.

6) Deemed export vs metered export

SEG is generally based on metered export. If you’re coming from older arrangements, check how your export is measured now and what evidence is required.

Practical tip: Before applying, gather (1) your MCS certificate or documentation, (2) MPAN (from a bill), (3) meter serial number, and (4) a recent export reading (if available). This typically speeds up the process.

SEG tariff comparison FAQs

1) What does SEG stand for?

SEG stands for Smart Export Guarantee. It’s a scheme where eligible households are paid for electricity they export to the grid from renewable generation (most commonly solar PV).

2) Do I need to be with the same supplier for import and export?

It depends on the supplier. Some allow SEG-only (export with them, import elsewhere). Others require you to take an import tariff too, or may restrict applications to existing electricity customers.

3) Do I need a smart meter for SEG?

In most cases, yes—you’ll need a meter that can provide export readings. Some tariffs require half-hourly export data. If you’re unsure, check your meter registers or ask your supplier whether export reads are available for your MPAN.

4) What if I don’t have an MCS certificate?

Many suppliers require MCS certification. If you moved into a property with solar, ask the installer (if known), the previous owner, or check paperwork from your home purchase. Some suppliers may accept alternative evidence for older systems, but this varies.

5) How often will I get paid for exported electricity?

Payment frequency depends on the supplier and tariff (commonly monthly or quarterly). Some pay by bank transfer; others credit your energy account. Always check whether there is a minimum payout threshold.

6) Is SEG income taxable in the UK?

Tax treatment depends on your circumstances. For many households, SEG payments are modest, but rules can change and individual situations vary. If you’re unsure, check current guidance on HMRC’s website or speak to a tax professional.

7) Can I get SEG if I have a solar battery?

Often yes, but check the supplier’s terms. Batteries can reduce export (by storing energy for later), which may reduce SEG payments but can improve your overall bill by lowering imports.

8) Can renters claim SEG payments?

Potentially, but eligibility depends on who owns/operates the installation and whose name the electricity account and export arrangements are in. If the landlord owns the system, the SEG agreement may be in their name unless they assign rights under the tenancy and supplier terms allow it.

9) How long does it take to set up SEG after switching?

It varies. If your export meter readings are already available and your documents are in order, it can be relatively quick. Delays often relate to meter configuration, retrieving export reads, or missing certification documents.

10) Is SEG the same as the Feed-in Tariff (FiT)?

No. FiT is a closed scheme (for new applicants) that paid generation and export under older rules. SEG pays for metered export only. If you’re on FiT, be careful: switching arrangements without understanding the implications could affect your payments.

How we assess SEG tariffs (methodology), plus trust & sources

Trust signals

Written by
EnergyPlus Editorial Team
Reviewed by
Energy Specialist
Last updated
March 2026

Our comparison approach (what we prioritise)

  • Total household impact: export rate alongside import unit rate and standing charge where tariffs are linked.
  • Eligibility clarity: metering requirements (export register, half-hourly data) and certification/documentation requirements.
  • Contract fairness: fixed vs variable, exit fees, notice periods, and how rates can change.
  • Operational experience: payment frequency, minimum payout thresholds, and how export reads are collected.
  • User fit: different outcomes for households with batteries, daytime occupancy, and varying export volumes.

Assumptions & limitations

  • Scenario figures use example export volumes and example rates for illustration only.
  • We do not assume a specific solar system size, orientation, shading, or battery setup.
  • Supplier tariffs and requirements can change; always confirm terms before switching.
  • Regional availability and metering capability can affect eligibility and timelines.

Sources (UK)

We reference regulators and independent advice for definitions and scheme rules, and encourage readers to check supplier tariff pages for up-to-date rates and conditions.

Ready to compare SEG export options for your home?

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Updated on 6 Mar 2026