What is the Smart Export Guarantee?
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is a UK government scheme that requires licensed electricity suppliers with 150,000+ customers to offer a tariff for small-scale renewable electricity exported to the grid. In practice, it means you get paid for surplus solar electricity your panels generate but you don't use.
The SEG replaced the Feed-in Tariff (FIT), which closed to new applicants in March 2019. Unlike the FIT, the government doesn't set SEG rates — suppliers set their own. That means rates vary significantly.
SEG rates in 2026
| Supplier | Export rate (p/kWh) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Octopus Energy (Flux) | Up to 15p | Time-of-use tariff, higher rates at peak |
| Octopus Energy (Fixed) | 4.1p | Fixed rate, simple |
| British Gas | 3.2p | Below average |
| EDF | 4.0p | Standard export tariff |
| E.ON Next | 4.1p | Standard export tariff |
| Scottish Power | 3.5p | Below average |
Rates change frequently. Octopus Flux stands out — it pays more during evening peak hours (4–7pm) when grid demand is highest. If you have a battery, you can store daytime solar and export at peak rates for maximum earnings.
How much can you earn?
A 4kW system in Leeds generates ~3,200 kWh/year. Assuming 50% self-consumption, you export ~1,600 kWh. At the average SEG rate of 4–5p/kWh, that's £64–£80/year. On Octopus Flux with a battery (exporting at peak times), earnings can reach £150–£250/year.
Over 25 years: £1,600–£6,250 in total SEG income. Not life-changing, but a useful bonus on top of the £650–£850/year you save by using solar electricity directly. Full cost breakdown in our cost guide.
How to sign up
- Get MCS-certified installation. The SEG requires your solar panels to be installed by an MCS-certified installer. No MCS = no SEG.
- Install a smart meter. You need a SMETS2 smart meter to measure exported electricity. Ask your energy supplier for a free installation if you don't have one.
- Choose an SEG tariff. You don't have to use the same supplier for your SEG as for your electricity import. Shop around.
- Apply. Contact your chosen SEG supplier with your MCS certificate and meter details. Most applications are processed within 2–4 weeks.
You can switch SEG supplier at any time with 30 days' notice. If a better rate appears, move. Get quotes from Leeds MCS-certified installers to start the process.