Glossary
What is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)?
The UK scheme that pays you for surplus solar electricity exported to the grid
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is a government scheme in Great Britain requiring licensed electricity suppliers to pay households for surplus renewable electricity they export to the national grid. SEG rates vary widely by supplier and tariff, from about 1p per kWh upwards, so it pays to compare them.
Where it wins
- Earn income from surplus solar electricity
- Available from multiple suppliers with competitive rates
- No cap on how much you can export
- Easy to set up with an MCS certificate
Where it struggles
- Rates are much lower than retail electricity prices
- Requires a smart meter
- Payment rates vary widely between suppliers
- You earn more by using electricity yourself than exporting
How it works
01
Your solar panels generate more electricity than your home uses
02
Surplus power flows back through your smart meter to the grid
03
Your SEG supplier measures exported units each quarter
04
Payment credited to your energy account or paid direct
Smart Export Guarantee (SEG): common questions
What is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)?
The UK scheme that pays you for surplus solar electricity exported to the grid
How does the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) work?
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is a government scheme in Great Britain requiring licensed electricity suppliers to pay households for surplus renewable electricity they export to the national grid. SEG rates vary widely by supplier and tariff, from about 1p per kWh upwards, so it pays to compare them.
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