The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) lets you earn money from surplus electricity your solar panels send back to the grid. Introduced in 2020, this government‑backed scheme requires certain energy suppliers to pay small‑scale generators for each exported kilowatt‑hour.
At Flux Solar Energy, we go beyond installation: we help you understand the SEG, choose the right tariff, and optimise your system for maximum savings.
What is the Smart Export Guarantee?
The smart export guarantee (SEG) pays households and small businesses for excess renewable electricity generated by technologies like solar PV, wind, hydro and micro‑CHP up to 5 MW.
To qualify, your system must be certified under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), and you’ll need a smart meter capable of half‑hourly export readings. You can’t claim SEG payments if you’re receiving export payments under the Feed‑in Tariff (FIT) scheme, but you can keep FIT generation payments by opting out of FIT export.
Flux Solar Energy is an MCS‑certified installer, so our systems qualify for smart export guarantee payments. We also help you apply for smart meters and handle the paperwork, making the process seamless.
How the Smart Export Guarantee works
Energy suppliers set the export rate and contract terms for Smart Export Guaranteer (SEG) tariffs. Rates must be greater than zero, but there’s no official minimum.
Suppliers offer fixed tariffs (a set rate per kWh over a contract) and variable tariffs (rates change with market conditions). You can choose a different supplier for your export tariff than for your import electricity, allowing flexibility.
How do we help you earn more
- System design and optimisation: We design your system to maximise self‑consumption and exports when rates are high.
- Tariff guidance: With no set SEG rate, suppliers’ offers vary widely. We monitor tariffs across the market and advise on the best options without promoting competitors directly.
- Battery integration: Adding battery storage allows you to store excess electricity and export at higher rates later. Our bespoke battery solutions help you qualify for premium SEG tariffs that require storage.
- Ongoing support: We provide annual maintenance and performance monitoring to ensure your system continues to meet SEG requirements and remains profitable.
Smart Export Guarantee tariff ranges in 2025
Thousands of households are signing up: 283,666 installations joined a SEG tariff between April 2023 and March 2024. Rates vary widely. On average, households earned about 13 p/kWh, but premium tariffs in 2025 can reach up to around 40 p/kWh for specific customers. Lower-tier tariffs may pay as little as 3 p/kWh.
Below is a general breakdown of SEG tariff categories:
| Tariff category (examples) | Typical rate (p/kWh) | Key characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Premium (High Return) | 25–40 | Often, fixed‑rate contracts are accessible to many households. This is a good option if you want predictable earnings. |
| Standard (Mid‑Range) | 10–20 | Often fixed‑rate contracts are accessible to many households. This is a good option if you want predictable earnings. |
| Entry‑Level (Low Return) | 3–8 | Available without strings; minimal requirements but modest income. Suited for those with minimal surplus exports. |
Because tariff terms change frequently, we recommend periodic reviews to ensure you’re on a competitive rate. As your trusted partner, we keep track of the market and notify you when better opportunities arise.
Factors to consider
Fixed vs variable
A fixed tariff offers price stability, while variable tariffs can pay more during peak demand but less at other times. If you have a battery, variable or time‑of‑use tariffs may deliver higher returns because you can store electricity and export when rates are highest.
Supplier requirements
Premium tariffs often require that you’re both an import and export customer of the supplier and that you installed your system through them. As an independent installer, we help you navigate these conditions and decide whether switching suppliers is worthwhile.
Battery storage
A battery isn’t mandatory, but having one can unlock higher export rates and maximise self‑consumption. Battery storage also protects you against grid outages and future‑proofs your energy system. Our battery storage solutions are tailored to your needs.
Export volumes
Your SEG income depends on how much electricity you export. Households with high self‑consumption might prioritise energy savings over export earnings.
We analyse your energy usage patterns to determine the optimal balance between self‑consumption and export.
How to apply for a Smart Export Guarantee tariff
- Check eligibility: Ensure your system is MCS‑certified and not tied to FIT export payments.
- Install a smart meter: Contact your energy supplier if you don’t already have a meter capable of half‑hourly export readings.
- Gather documents: MCS certificate, commissioning date, system capacity and bank details are typical requirements.
- Compare tariffs: Tariff rates and terms vary. We help you evaluate the best options.
- Apply directly: Once you choose a supplier, submit an application. The supplier will calculate your export payments using your meter readings.
- Monitor performance: Keep an eye on your export volumes and review your tariff regularly. We can handle this for you as part of our aftercare service.
SEG payments can be combined with other financial support, such as home insulation grants or heat pump incentives. However, you can only receive export payments from one SEG supplier at a time.
Maximising your solar investment
With rising electricity prices, monetising excess solar electricity makes your system pay back faster. SEG earnings supplement the savings you already make by using your solar power.
Premium tariffs can significantly boost your income, but even standard rates reduce the payback period. Significantly, you still reduce your carbon footprint by replacing grid electricity with clean solar energy.
At Flux Solar Energy, we take a holistic view:
- Design: We tailor your system to your property, considering roof space, shading, and energy usage.
- Installation: Our experienced team installs panels, inverters and batteries to the highest standards.
- Support: We help you apply for the SEG, select tariffs and maintain your system for optimum performance.
- Education: We keep you informed about policy changes and new opportunities, such as electric vehicle charging or home battery upgrades.
Ready to earn more from your panels?
By understanding how the SEG works and partnering with a knowledgeable installer, you can turn your roof into a small power station. Whether you’re installing a new system or optimising an existing one, we’re here to help.
Contact Flux Solar Energy today for a free, no‑obligation consultation on solar panels, battery storage and SEG tariffs. Let’s turn your excess sunshine into a dependable income stream.
