With energy prices on the rise, many homeowners and businesses are turning to solar panels to reduce their electricity bills. But did you know that you can also earn money from your solar energy?

Thanks to the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), households and businesses with solar panels can get paid for the excess electricity they generate and send back to the National Grid.

In this guide, we’ll explain how the SEG works, who is eligible, and how you can maximise your earnings from solar energy.

What Is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)?

The Smart Export Guarantee is a UK government-backed scheme that pays homeowners and businesses for exporting surplus solar energy back to the grid. It replaced the Feed-in Tariff (FiT) in 2020, offering a fair market price for the electricity you don’t use.

Unlike the old FiT scheme, SEG payments are not fixed by the government. Instead, energy suppliers set their own rates, meaning it’s worth shopping around for the best deal.

Who Is Eligible for the Smart Export Guarantee?

To qualify for the SEG, you must meet the following criteria:

✅ You generate renewable energy – Your system must use solar panels, wind, hydro, or another renewable source.
✅ Your system is under 5MW – Most domestic and small commercial systems are well below this limit.
✅ Your solar installation is MCS-certified – The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) ensures your system meets UK standards.
✅ You have a smart meter – Your electricity supplier needs to measure how much power you export, so you’ll need a smart meter capable of half-hourly readings.

If you meet these requirements, you can apply for the SEG tariff with an energy supplier of your choice.

How Much Can You Earn from the SEG?

Unlike the old Feed-in Tariff, SEG rates vary between suppliers. Some providers pay as little as 1p per kWh, while others offer up to 15p per kWh.

📊 Example Earnings Calculation:

• If your system exports 1,500 kWh per year

• And your supplier pays 10p per kWh

• You would earn £150 per year just from your excess energy!

🔎 Tip: Check with different suppliers, as rates can change frequently. Some suppliers only offer SEG tariffs to customers who buy their electricity, while others accept all applicants.

Which Energy Suppliers Offer SEG Tariffs?

Several UK energy companies currently offer SEG tariffs, including:

⚡ Octopus Energy – One of the best-paying tariffs, often up to 15p per kWh
⚡ EDF Energy – Offers competitive rates for customers
⚡ British Gas – Provides a basic SEG tariff with flexible terms
⚡ E.ON Next – Available to both customers and non-customers

📢 Pro Tip: The best SEG rate may not always be with your current energy supplier, so it’s worth shopping around to maximise your earnings.

How to Apply for the Smart Export Guarantee

Applying for the SEG is simple:

1️⃣ Check your eligibility – Ensure your solar system is MCS-certified and you have a smart meter.
2️⃣ Compare suppliers – Look at different SEG rates and choose the best deal.
3️⃣ Submit an application – Contact your chosen supplier and provide the necessary documentation.
4️⃣ Start earning – Once approved, your supplier will track your exports and pay you accordingly.

Most energy providers pay SEG earnings quarterly or annually, so you’ll receive regular payments for your excess energy.

How to Maximise Your SEG Earnings

💡 Choose the Best Tariff – Some suppliers offer much higher rates than others, so switching can increase your earnings.

🔋 Consider Battery Storage – A solar battery allows you to store energy for personal use rather than selling it at a low rate. This helps you save more on electricity bills.

☀️ Optimise Solar Usage – Use more of your own electricity during the day (when the sun is shining) to reduce reliance on the grid.

Final Thoughts: Is the SEG Worth It?

The Smart Export Guarantee is a great way to earn extra money from your solar panels while reducing your electricity bills. Although rates vary between suppliers, it’s an easy way to get paid for energy you’re not using.

If you’re thinking about installing solar panels, the SEG makes it even more financially rewarding. And if you already have a solar system, now is the time to compare tariffs and start earning!

🌞 Interested in installing solar panels and benefiting from the SEG? At JCE Contracting Ltd, we provide expert solar and battery storage solutions tailored to your home or business.

📞 Contact us today for a free consultation and quote.