On a bright day, your solar panels will often generate more electricity than your home can use. Rather than going to waste, that surplus is exported to the grid. Thanks to the Smart Export Guarantee, you can be paid for it.
The Smart Export Guarantee, usually shortened to SEG, is an important part of how solar delivers value for UK homeowners. Here’s how it works, how to choose a tariff and how to make the most of the electricity your panels generate.
The SEG is a government backed scheme, introduced in January 2020, that requires larger electricity suppliers to offer a tariff paying households for the renewable electricity they export to the grid. It replaced the older Feed in Tariff scheme, which closed to new applicants in 2019.
The scheme is overseen by Ofgem, which sets out the rules suppliers must follow. Suppliers can set their own rates, but they must always pay something for the electricity you export.
When your panels generate more electricity than your home is using, the extra flows back to the grid. A smart meter records how much you export, and your SEG supplier pays you for each kilowatt hour (kWh) at the agreed rate.
Payments are usually made monthly or quarterly, or credited to your energy account, depending on your supplier.
To receive SEG payments, you will usually need:
When we install your system, we provide the certification you need to apply. This is one of many reasons it’s important to choose a properly accredited installer. Our guide to the questions to ask before choosing a solar installer covers this in more detail.
SEG rates vary widely between suppliers, so it pays to shop around. When comparing tariffs, consider:
You don’t always have to receive your export payments from the same company that supplies your electricity, so compare the overall package before deciding.
While SEG payments are a welcome bonus, it’s important to understand that the electricity you use in your home is usually worth more than the electricity you export. That’s because the price you pay to buy electricity from the grid is typically higher than the rate you receive for exporting it.
The most valuable thing your solar can do is reduce the amount of electricity you need to buy. That’s why getting the balance right between using, storing and exporting your energy makes such a difference.
Battery storage allows you to keep surplus solar energy and use it later in the day instead of exporting it. For many households, this increases savings because more of your own generation goes towards replacing electricity you would otherwise buy.
Some smart tariffs also allow batteries to export at times when export rates are higher. The right approach depends on your tariff, your battery and your energy use, which is why tailored advice is so valuable. You can read more in our guide to whether solar panels are worth it in 2026.
How much you export depends on the size of your system, your energy use and whether you have storage. A system designed around your household will strike the right balance between generation, self use and export. At Sheerwater Solar, we look at all of these factors before recommending a system.
Want to make the most of every unit your panels generate? Contact the Sheerwater Solar team to talk about system design, battery storage and export options. We’ll help you build a setup that delivers the best long term value for your home.
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Reaching out to Sheerwater Solar is straightforward and hassle-free. Whether you’re interested in solar panels for your home or business in Woking, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. You can contact us directly by calling 01932 627 555 or by sending an email to info@sheerwatersolar.co.uk.
Alternatively, fill in our online form for a swift response.
What happens next?
In most cases, we’ll need to conduct an on-site survey at your property to assess the feasibility and provide you with a tailored quote. This visit allows us to understand your specific needs and explore the potential for renewable energy solutions. Following the survey, we’ll discuss the best options for integrating solar energy into your property, including detailed costs and the installation process.
We’re excited to assist you on your journey to renewable energy and look forward to hearing from you.