What is the Smart Export Guarantee and how much does it pay?
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is a UK scheme that requires larger energy suppliers to pay you for the solar electricity you export to the grid. Rates vary by supplier, but a competitive SEG or smart tariff pays around 15p per kWh. You need a smart meter and an MCS-certified installation to qualify.
How SEG works
- Your smart meter measures the electricity you export to the grid.
- Your chosen SEG supplier pays you per kWh exported, usually monthly or quarterly.
- You can be on a different supplier for import than for export.
- MCS certification and a smart meter are required to sign up.
How much you can earn
A typical home without a battery exports a large share of its generation, so SEG can be worth £80 to £250 a year. With a battery you export less (because you use more yourself), but you save more overall because avoided imports at 27p are worth more than exports at 15p. The SunSum calculator includes a SEG assumption in its savings estimate.
Frequently asked questions
- Is SEG the same as the old Feed-in Tariff?
- No. The Feed-in Tariff closed to new applicants in 2019 and paid for generation. SEG replaced it and pays only for what you export.
- Do I have to use my import supplier for SEG?
- No. You can choose any SEG provider, so it is worth comparing export rates separately from your import tariff.
Related questions
Indicative estimates based on UK average data. Last updated 27 May 2026.