Export
The Smart Export Guarantee: what suppliers pay in October 2026
How you get paid
A smart meter records what you send back, and your supplier pays for each kWh. Ofgem says suppliers set their own rates and contract lengths, and that SEG rates must always be above zero. The scheme covers solar and some other small generators up to 5MW in Great Britain, which takes in every home.
Rates we opened in October 2026
| Supplier and tariff | Rate per kWh | Condition on the page |
|---|---|---|
| EDF Export Exclusive 12m V3 | 18p | Solar or battery bought from EDF. A second EDF tariff pays 13p to existing EDF electricity customers. |
| E.ON Next Export Premium v3 | 17.5p, fixed 12 months | Solar or battery installed by E.ON Installation Services, up to 15kW. A 13p fixed tariff is listed for other residential customers. |
| British Gas Export Premium | 12p, variable | The better rate applies where British Gas supplies your electricity. Page updated 27 August 2026. |
| Outgoing Octopus | 12p | For Octopus customers. Octopus's plain SEG rate is 4.1p. |
Read from each supplier's own page in October 2026. Rates change, so check the page before you sign. The Energy Saving Trust says you typically get around 12p per unit.
The catch on the highest rates
The 18p and 17.5p rates are tied to buying or installing through that supplier. If another installer fits your system, you may not qualify, though 12p and 13p tariffs are open to more people. A high export rate also shrinks what a battery adds, because spare power is already worth more when sold. Our arithmetic is in the battery guide.
What you need
- An MCS certificate for the install. EDF asks for it on its page, and the Energy Saving Trust says most suppliers need it.
- A smart meter that records exports.
- A tariff from a supplier that offers one. Larger suppliers must.
And plug-in solar?
The Energy Saving Trust says plug-in kits do not normally earn export payments, because most suppliers need an MCS certificate.
Questions people ask
Is SEG income taxable?
Check current HMRC guidance or ask an adviser. We do not give tax advice.
Do I have to use my import supplier?
Not always, but some of the best rates need it. Compare before you sign.
Is there a minimum rate?
It must be above zero, says Ofgem. There is no set higher minimum.
Want numbers for your own home? Try the estimator or ask for a free quote.
Sources
- Ofgem: Smart Export Guarantee
- EDF: Smart Export tariffs
- E.ON Next: Smart Export Guarantee
- British Gas: Smart Export Guarantee
- Octopus Energy: Smart Export Guarantee
- Energy Saving Trust: solar panels
More guides
- What solar and a battery cost for a Broadstairs house
- Current UK solar and battery benefits (October 2026)
- Is a home battery worth it with the SEG?
- Plug-in solar for Broadstairs flats and rented homes
- What size solar battery do I need?
- Solar only, battery only, or both?
- 0% VAT on solar and batteries explained
- Planning permission and network approval in Broadstairs
- Solar panels near the sea: what to ask for
- Cheap overnight tariffs and a battery only
- Pairing an EV charger with solar and battery