How SEG works
When solar generation exceeds on-site self-consumption, the surplus exports to the grid. SEG meter (export-only smart meter) records exported kWh. Electricity supplier pays per-kWh export tariff. Payment monthly or quarterly. No subsidy from government — purely market-based.
2026 SEG tariff range by supplier
As at July 2026: Octopus Outgoing Agile — variable tariff tracking wholesale half-hourly prices. Octopus Outgoing Fixed — 12p/kWh (it was 15p until the 1 March 2026 cut). Octopus Panel Power (business export) — around 12p/kWh. E.ON Next standard SEG — around 10.5p/kWh standalone. OVO Energy — around 12p/kWh. Most standard fixed rates sit between roughly 4p and 12p. Rates move on around 30 days’ notice — verify the live supplier page before signing anything.
How to maximise SEG income
For high-self-consumption sites (cold chain, fulfilment): SEG export is small — minimum-effort fixed tariff is fine. For shift-pattern or weekend-low sites: variable tariff (Octopus Outgoing Agile) often pays significantly more.
Common questions
How much SEG income will we get?
Depends on self-consumption ratio. High self-consumption (90%+): small SEG income, 1-3% of total benefit. Mid (70-85%): meaningful, 5-15%. Low (50-70%): substantial, 15-30%.
Can we change SEG supplier later?
Yes. SEG supplier can be changed independent of import supplier. Switch process typically 4-6 weeks.