What is the Smart Export Guarantee?
If you’ve got solar panels or you’re thinking about installing them, you might have heard about the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). But what is it, and how can it benefit you? Here’s a simple guide to help you understand how SEG works, how much you could earn, and what to look out for when choosing a tariff.
The Smart Export Guarantee is a government-backed scheme that ensures some energy suppliers pay households for the renewable electricity they export back to the grid. So if you’ve got solar panels generating more electricity than you use, you won’t just be saving money, you can earn some too.
It replaced the previous Feed-in Tariff (FiT) scheme (that closed to new applicants in March 2019) and has been in place since January 2020.
Who’s eligible?
To qualify for SEG payments, you’ll need:
- A renewable energy system (like solar PV)
- A smart meter or export meter that can measure how much electricity you export
- An installation that meets Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) standards or equivalent
- To sign up with a licensed SEG supplier
You don’t get enrolled automatically, you need to apply with your chosen supplier.
How much can I earn?
This is where it gets interesting – and a little variable. Unlike the old Feed-in Tariff, SEG doesn’t have fixed rates. Energy suppliers set their own export rates, which means what you earn depends on who you sign up with.
- According to Solar Energy UK, as of early 2025, SEG tariffs ranged from as little as 1p per kWh to over 20p per kWh. So it really pays to shop around.
- Which? found that the best-paying suppliers might offer more than double what others do for the same exported electricity. Some even offer variable rates depending on when you export power – like higher rates during peak demand.
Do I have to sell energy to my electricity supplier?
Nope! You can choose a separate company just for your export tariff. This gives you more flexibility to shop around for the best rates. Some of the top-paying SEG suppliers aren’t even the biggest names in the energy market.
Is it worth it?
In short – yes, especially if you generate more electricity than you use during the day. It’s not going to make you rich overnight, but it can make a noticeable dent in your energy bills or even help pay back the cost of your solar panel system.
And when combined with battery storage, you can hold onto more of your solar energy and only export what you don’t need, helping you maximise savings and income.
Tips for getting the most out of SEG
- Compare rates regularly – Suppliers can change their tariffs, so it’s worth checking once a year.
- Read the fine print – Some tariffs have conditions like needing to buy your electricity from the same supplier.
- Consider time-of-use tariffs – If your system generates during peak hours, these can pay more.
Want more information?
The Smart Export Guarantee is a great way to make your solar panels work harder for you. Whether you’re already generating green energy or planning to install solar soon, SEG gives you the chance to earn money, support the grid, and reduce your carbon footprint, a win-win-win.
If you have questions or want help understanding how SEG fits into your energy plans, the Greener Homes team is here to help. Book your call back today or call us on 0800 058 4066
