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How to Set Up SEG Payments for Your Home Solar and Battery System

If you’ve had solar panels (and possibly a battery) installed at home, you could be earning money by selling any extra electricity you generate back to the grid. This is done through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG).

But the process of signing up can feel confusing, especially with all the different bits of paperwork mentioned – things like MCS certificates, DNO notifications, and G98/G99 forms. Don’t worry: in this guide we’ll explain what each of these is, why you need it, and how to get your SEG payments set up.

What is the SEG?

The Smart Export Guarantee is a government-backed scheme that requires energy suppliers (the bigger ones by law, but many smaller ones take part too) to pay you for the electricity you export back to the grid.

You can choose which supplier you register with, and you don’t need to buy your electricity from the same one you sell it to. Suppliers set their own tariffs, so it’s worth comparing offers. You can compare tariffs here: Are You Getting the Best Rate for the Solar Power You Export?

What Paperwork Do You Need?

To get approved for SEG payments, you’ll usually be asked for the following documents. These show that your system is safe, approved, and connected properly.

1. MCS Certificate

  • What it is: Proof that your solar panels (and battery, if included) were installed by an accredited company following quality and safety standards.
  • Why it matters: Energy suppliers will only pay SEG if your system is MCS-certified.
  • Where you get it: Your installer should give you this after installation. Keep it safe – it’s essential.

2. DNO Notification (G98 or G99 Form)

  • What it is: The Distribution Network Operator (DNO) is the company that manages the local electricity network in your area. They need to know that your solar system is connected to their network.
  • G98 vs. G99:
    • G98: For most small home systems (up to 16 amps per phase—basically normal domestic setups).
    • G99: For larger systems that generate more electricity (more common in commercial or big battery installs).
  • Who does this: Your installer should submit this to the DNO for you. You’ll need proof that it’s been accepted.

3. Proof of Meter

  • What it is: SEG payments are based on the exact amount of electricity you export. This means you need a smart meter that can measure exports, or in some cases, a separate export meter.
  • Why it matters: Without a suitable meter, suppliers can’t track your exports and won’t pay you.

4. System Information

Suppliers may also ask for:

  • Details of your inverter (the device that converts solar power into usable electricity).
  • The capacity of your system (how big it is, in kilowatts).
  • Sometimes battery information if you’re exporting stored energy.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for SEG

  1. Check your documents: Make sure you have your MCS certificate, DNO approval (G98/G99), and proof of your export-capable meter.
  2. Compare suppliers: Look at SEG tariffs – rates can vary a lot. Some pay a fixed rate, while others link to wholesale energy prices.
  3. Apply to your chosen supplier: They’ll send you a form asking for your details and copies of the paperwork.
  4. Wait for confirmation: Once approved, your SEG payments will be made (usually quarterly) straight into your bank account.

Common Issues and Tips

  • Didn’t get your MCS certificate? Contact your installer straight away – they are responsible for registering your system.
  • Installer didn’t notify the DNO? This can delay things. Ask for written confirmation that it’s been done.
  • Problems with your smart meter? Your energy supplier may need to check if it can measure exports properly, or fit a new one.

Setting up SEG payments might feel like a lot of paperwork, but once you’ve got the essentials – MCS certificate, DNO approval, and a working export meter – it’s fairly straightforward.

The key is keeping all your documents organised and double-checking that your installer has submitted everything they should. With the SEG in place, you’ll start earning money back for the clean energy you share with the grid, making your solar investment even more worthwhile.

If you still have questions, we’d be happy to talk it through with you. Contact our free Greener Homes in Lancashire advice team on 0800 058 4066.