Overview

The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), launched on 1 January 2020, allows eligible homeowners and businesses across Great Britain to earn money from surplus renewable electricity exported back to the National Grid.

If your solar PV system generates more electricity than you use, the excess energy can be exported to the grid. Participating electricity suppliers, known as SEG Licensees, offer tariffs that pay eligible customers for the electricity they export.

SEG tariff rates and terms vary between suppliers, so it’s worth comparing available tariffs to find the most suitable option. Eligible installations also need appropriate export metering, typically a smart meter capable of providing half-hourly export readings.

I’d use this version on the Warm Front website. It’s a little easier for a homeowner to understand and focuses more clearly on the main benefit: your solar panels can potentially earn you money for electricity you don’t use.

 

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Who is eligible for the Smart Export Guarantee?

The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is available to eligible small-scale renewable electricity generators across Great Britain. This can include homeowners, landlords, businesses and community energy projects.

To qualify, an installation must have a total installed capacity of no more than 5MW, or no more than 50kW for micro combined heat and power (micro-CHP) systems.

Eligible technologies include:

  • Solar photovoltaic (Solar PV) panels
  • Wind turbines
  • Micro combined heat and power (micro-CHP)
  • Hydroelectric systems
  • Anaerobic digestion (AD) systems

The installation must be located in Great Britain and meet the relevant SEG eligibility requirements. Applicants also need a meter capable of providing half-hourly export readings, typically a smart meter. For relevant smaller installations, suitable certification such as MCS or an equivalent recognised scheme may also be required.

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How Does the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) Work?

Under the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), participating electricity suppliers, known as SEG Licensees, set their own export tariff rates, contract lengths and payment terms. While rates vary between suppliers, all SEG tariffs must pay more than zero for eligible electricity exported to the grid.

SEG payments are based on the amount of electricity you export, measured using a meter capable of providing half-hourly export readings, typically a smart meter. Eligible households and businesses can then receive payments from their chosen SEG Licensee for the surplus renewable electricity they export.

As tariff rates and terms vary between providers, it’s worth shopping around and comparing SEG tariffs to find the best option for your circumstances. Your SEG provider does not necessarily have to be the same company that supplies your electricity.

Download Guidance for SEG licensees