The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is a government-backed initiative that requires electricity suppliers to pay small-scale generators for low-carbon electricity which they export back to the National Grid.
Unlike the old Feed-in Tariff, SEG rates vary significantly between suppliers. While some offer as little as 1p/kWh, others offer upwards of 15p/kWh, making your choice of supplier critical for financial returns.
To be eligible for SEG payments, your installation must be MCS certified (or equivalent) and you must have a smart meter capable of providing half-hourly readings.
Top Export Tariffs 2026
Below is a comparison of the leading export tariffs available in the UK. Note that some premium rates are only available if you also import your electricity from the same supplier.
| Supplier | Tariff Name | Rate (p/kWh) | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Octopus Energy | Intelligent Octopus Flux | 29.0p | Must have battery + import tariff |
| Octopus Energy | Fixed Outgoing | 15.0p | Standard fixed rate export |
| OVO Energy | OVO SEG Anytime | 20.0p | Must import electricity from OVO |
| Scottish Power | SmartGen+ | 12.0p | Must import from Scottish Power |
| British Gas | Export & Earn Plus | 15.0p | Must import from British Gas |
| E.ON Next | Next Export Exclusive | 16.5p | Must have E.ON solar installation |
*Rates are subject to change. Last updated January 2026.
Time-of-Use Tariffs
Smart tariffs like Octopus Agile or Economy 7 offer different electricity prices at different times of day. For solar and battery owners, these can be incredibly lucrative.
Strategy for Maximizing Returns:
- Charge battery overnight when grid prices are cheap (e.g., 2am - 5am).
- Discharge battery during peak hours (4pm - 7pm) to avoid expensive import rates.
- Export solar during the day if your export rate is higher than your import rate.
Agile tariffs track wholesale prices. While savings can be huge, prices can also spike during high demand. These tariffs are best suited for households with batteries that can automate their energy usage.
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