What the Smart Export Guarantee is

The Smart Export Guarantee launched on 1 January 2020. It is a government-backed scheme. It requires some electricity suppliers to pay small-scale generators for low-carbon power that they send back to the grid.

You use some of your solar power at home, while the rest goes to the grid. That spare part is what SEG pays for. It does not pay for power you use yourself.

This page is independent information. We are not a supplier or a government service. Ofgem runs the scheme, however each supplier sets its own terms.

Who it is for

SEG covers installations in Great Britain, which means England, Scotland and Wales. It does not cover Northern Ireland. If you live there, read about solar funding routes in Northern Ireland.

Eligible solar PV can be up to 5MW, so ordinary home systems qualify. In particular, you need to show that your installation and installer are certified under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), or an equivalent. You cannot claim SEG if you already get Feed-in Tariff export payments.

Homeowners are the usual claimants, although a tenant needs the landlord’s permission for panels. Read our guide to solar panels for renters and landlords. See also solar funding routes in England, solar funding routes in Scotland and solar funding routes in Wales.

What it can pay for

SEG pays you for power you export. It does not pay for solar panels, batteries or installation. For help with those costs, look at grants and the zero VAT rate on solar.

The rate comes from your supplier, because Ofgem says suppliers decide the rate, contract length and other terms. The rate must always be above zero, but there is no national figure.

Payments are based on export meter readings. GOV.UK says you need a meter that can give half-hourly export readings, which is typically a smart meter. A battery that can import and export may also earn SEG payments, so ask the supplier.

Current status

As of 10 October 2026, SEG is running. A SEG year runs from 1 April to 31 March. Suppliers with at least 150,000 domestic electricity customers must offer it and cannot opt out.

Smaller suppliers may offer it if they choose. Therefore, not every supplier has a SEG tariff. Ofgem publishes a list of licensees each year.

How to apply or take the next step

You apply to a SEG licensee. It does not have to be the company that supplies your energy. You can shop around, because tariffs differ.

Start with Ofgem’s page for generators, since it explains the steps and links to the supplier list. Then compare tariffs on rate, contract length and how often you are paid.

Our guide to choosing a Smart Export Guarantee tariff shows what to compare. If you are still deciding about batteries, read solar battery funding in the UK. You can also request installer quotes on our quotes page, which is optional.

What to check before you agree to anything

Export rates vary, so a high rate for a short time may not be the best deal. Look at the whole contract, because terms can change. Ask what happens to the rate when the first term ends.

Before you sign, check these points.

  • Does the supplier ask for an export meter and who pays for it?
  • Is the rate fixed, and for how long?
  • Can you leave without a fee?
  • Will payments depend on you buying energy from that supplier?

Be careful with any firm that promises large export income, because nobody can promise what you will earn. Your income depends on your system, your use and the rate you choose.

FAQ / QUICK ANSWERS

Common questions

Is the Smart Export Guarantee open?
Yes. It has run since 1 January 2020. Large suppliers must offer it, and you can apply to any SEG licensee.
Can I get the Smart Export Guarantee in Northern Ireland?
No. Ofgem says installations must be in Great Britain. Ask your Northern Ireland supplier what export arrangements it offers.
How much does the Smart Export Guarantee pay?
There is no national rate. Each supplier sets its own rate, contract length and terms. By law the rate must always be above zero.
Do I need a smart meter to claim SEG?
You need a meter that gives half-hourly export readings. This is typically a smart meter. Ask your chosen supplier what it needs.
Can I claim SEG with a battery?
GOV.UK says a household battery that can import and export could also earn SEG payments. Ask the supplier before you apply.