Solar panel owners looking to make the most of the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) should carefully compare tariffs, as rates vary significantly between providers. The highest rates can reach 40p per kWh, while some tariffs offer as little as 1p per kWh. Choosing the right tariff could make a difference of hundreds of pounds annually.
Understanding the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
The SEG is a government-backed scheme that mandates large energy suppliers (with over 150,000 customers) to pay small-scale renewable energy generators, like solar panel owners, for the excess electricity they export to the grid. The rates, set by the suppliers themselves, must always be above zero.
To qualify for SEG payments, your solar panel setup must be certified under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) or equivalent, and your smart meter (SMETS2 or some SMETS1 models) must be capable of half-hourly readings.
Key Points:
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Export rates vary from 1p to 40p per kWh, depending on the supplier and eligibility.
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Some of the best rates are available only to existing customers or those who meet specific criteria.
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Large energy companies must offer at least one SEG tariff, but non-mandatory providers may also have competitive offers.
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Time-of-use tariffs, like Octopus’s Intelligent Octopus Flux, can provide variable rates, peaking at 30p/kWh during 4-7 pm.
Top SEG Tariffs in April 2025
| Energy Company | Tariff Name | Eligibility | Solar Export/SEG Rate per kWh |
|---|---|---|---|
| Good Energy | Solar Savings Exclusive | Customers who installed solar and battery with Good Energy Solar or JPS Renewables | 40p (a) |
| Octopus Energy | Intelligent Octopus Flux | Octopus customers with solar panels and GivEnergy battery | 27p (b) |
| EDF Energy | Export Exclusive 12m | Customers who bought solar panels and/or battery from Contact Solar | 24p |
| E.ON Next | Next Export Premium v2 | E.ON customers who installed solar or battery after Oct 2024 | 21p (c) |
| OVO Energy | SEG Install Exclusive | Eligible area customers who bought panels and battery through Ovo | 20p (d) |
| British Gas | Export and Earn Plus | British Gas customers | 15.1p |
(a) Rate fixed for 12 months. (b) Time-of-use tariff with peak rates from 4-7 pm. (c) Rate fixed for 24 months. (d) 15p if only solar panels are installed.
Choosing the Right Export Tariff
The best rates often require meeting specific conditions, such as being an existing customer, having compatible battery storage, or using designated solar installation partners. Good Energy’s Solar Savings Exclusive tariff offers the highest rate of 40p/kWh but is limited to customers who purchased both solar panels and a battery from approved providers.
For those without specific setups or partnerships, British Gas’ Export and Earn Plus offers one of the better straightforward rates at 15.1p/kWh for customers. Similarly, E.ON Next and Octopus Energy provide competitive options for those willing to switch their energy supply.
Before making a decision, it’s wise to check customer satisfaction scores for each provider to ensure reliable service and payments.
