Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) – Get Paid for Your Extra Solar Power
If you’ve invested in solar panels or are considering installation, the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is a key part of your return on investment. This UK government-backed scheme pays homeowners and businesses for the surplus electricity they export back to the grid.
At EnergyPlus.co.uk, we help you compare SEG tariffs from top UK energy suppliers so you can make the most of your solar setup in 2025 and beyond.
---What Is the Smart Export Guarantee?
The Smart Export Guarantee is a government initiative introduced in January 2020 to replace the previous Feed-in Tariff (FiT). Under SEG, licensed electricity suppliers must offer a payment rate to customers who export excess energy generated by renewable technologies such as:
- Solar PV panels
- Wind turbines
- Hydro power
- Micro-combined heat and power (micro-CHP)
The scheme ensures that solar panel owners are fairly compensated for any energy they don’t use and send back to the National Grid.
---How Does SEG Work?
- Install a qualifying renewable system (e.g. solar PV)
- Ensure your system is MCS-certified and you have a smart meter capable of recording half-hourly exports
- Apply to an SEG tariff from a licensed energy supplier
- You’ll receive payments based on the amount of energy you export back to the grid, typically paid monthly or quarterly
Note: You don’t have to buy electricity from the same supplier offering your SEG payments. You can shop around to find the best rate.
---SEG Tariffs – What Are You Paid?
SEG rates vary by supplier and can range from 2p to 15p per kWh. The most competitive suppliers may offer higher rates, especially for customers who also use them for supply. Some examples (July 2025):
| Supplier | SEG Rate (per kWh) | Tariff Type |
|---|---|---|
| Octopus Energy | 15p | Fixed |
| E.ON Next | 5.5p | Variable |
| British Gas | 6p | Fixed |
| Scottish Power | 4.1p | Variable |
Be sure to check if the rate is exclusive to supply customers or open to all.
---Who’s Eligible for the SEG?
To qualify for SEG payments, you must:
- Install a renewable system under 5MW (e.g. standard home solar)
- Use an MCS-certified installer
- Have a smart meter or export meter capable of half-hourly readings
Businesses and landlords can also benefit, provided the installation meets SEG criteria.
---Benefits of the Smart Export Guarantee
- 💸 Earn money for every unit of electricity you don’t use
- 🌱 Support the UK’s renewable energy goals
- 🔄 Offset installation costs over time
- 📈 Boost ROI on your solar investment
Ready to Install Solar and Start Earning?
Want to take advantage of the Smart Export Guarantee but haven’t installed solar panels yet? Let us help. We work with MCS-certified solar installers across the UK to bring you the best local quotes with no obligation.
Get Free Solar Quotes ---Frequently Asked Questions
💡 Do SEG payments affect my energy bill?
No, SEG payments are separate from your regular energy bill and are usually paid into your bank account.
💡 Can I switch SEG providers?
Yes, you can switch your SEG tariff just like a regular energy plan to get a better rate.
💡 Is SEG income taxable?
For most homeowners, SEG payments are not taxable. If you operate as a business, consult your accountant.
---All SEG rates listed are accurate as of July 2025. Check with individual suppliers for current offers. EnergyPlus.co.uk is an independent energy lead generation platform.