Applying to the SEG Scheme
This is a complete guide to applying to the SEG (Smart Export Guarantee) in 2025.
We’ll let you know:
What the SEG Scheme is
What you need to be eligible
What information you have to provide (and where to find it)
Where to apply
Let’s get started.
What is the smart export guarantee scheme?
The SEG scheme is for homeowners who have installed solar panels. The Smart Export Guarantee is a government-backed program that pays homeowners for the excess electricity their solar panels generate and export back to the grid. Choosing the best SEG tariff can maximize your earnings from the scheme.
Get paid for excess energy created by your panels that you don’t use.
Having a certified solar installation is crucial to qualify for the SEG scheme.
Consumers should compare different SEG suppliers to find the best rates.
*PLEASE NOTE WE CAN NOT APPLY TO THE SEG SCHEME ON YOUR BEHALF. YOU MUST APPLY YOURSELF.
Step 1: Check eligibility for renewable electricity
Before applying, make sure your solar panels meet the eligibility criteria for the SEG scheme. A league table can help consumers compare SEG tariffs and choose the best option. To be eligible, your solar panels must:
Have a maximum capacity of 5 MW
Meet the requirements set out by Ofgem, the government’s regulator for the energy industry
Have a smart meter installed that is capable of measuring the amount of electricity exported back to the grid. Accurate export readings are crucial for qualifying for SEG payments.
Switching electricity supply can also provide better SEG rates, enhancing your savings and earnings.
Step 2: Find your SEG licensee
The SEG scheme is administered by energy suppliers who are licensed by Ofgem to participate in the scheme.
You will have to apply to the SEG scheme with the energy provider you use, for example, Octopus Energy, SSE, or Scottish Power. It is important to submit export meter readings for SEG payments to ensure you qualify for the tariff.
You can switch energy suppliers to access a better rate with the SEG scheme. You can find a list of SEG licensees on the Ofgem website here.
When considering solar photovoltaic systems, ensure they meet the necessary certification requirements, such as MCS certification, for residential installations.
You can also benefit from considering different SEG providers, as they may offer better rates and a smoother process for closing accounts with your previous provider.
Step 3: Apply to your chosen supplier
Once you have found a SEG licensee, you will need to apply to them directly to participate in the scheme. Micro combined heat systems are also eligible for the SEG scheme, providing an opportunity to generate both electricity and heat simultaneously.
Most suppliers have an online application process, which should be straightforward and easy to follow. You will need to provide your personal and contact details, as well as information about your solar panel system. Anaerobic digestion systems can also be considered for generating renewable energy under the SEG scheme.
Your solar installer can’t apply on your behalf, however, here is our simple guide for most providers:
Find the application by searching for your electricity provider and ‘SEG scheme.’
Let your provider know if you are filling in a new application or transferring from a different provider
Fill in your personal details
Let them know the address of the system installed
Let them know the capacity of the system installed, for example, 5kW
Fill in your account number
Fill in your MPAN number
Fill in your Smart Meter serial number
Fill in your MCS number (found on your MCS certificate)
Selling surplus electricity back to the grid can provide additional income and contribute to a more sustainable energy system.
How do I get my MCS and DNO approval letters?
CRG Direct will send you your MCS and DNO approval certificates once the system is installed and registered with the DNO. You'll get an MCS certificate straight away, whilst DNO approval can take a few weeks to go through depending on your supplier. DNO approval can take up to six weeks.
Step 4: Installation of a smart meter
In the case that you don’t already have one, your supplier will arrange for a smart meter to be installed at your property. The smart meter will measure the amount of electricity you export back to the grid and allow your supplier to calculate your payments. Smart meters play a crucial role in generating electricity from renewable sources by providing accurate data on energy production and consumption.
Accurate meter readings are essential for calculating SEG payments and ensuring precise billing when switching or cancelling accounts.
It is important to understand the distinction between import and export rates, as the prices for buying (importing) and selling (exporting) energy vary, impacting the calculations for SEG payments.
Understanding SEG Payments
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) payment is a fantastic opportunity for homeowners and businesses to earn money by generating and exporting excess renewable electricity to the National Grid. This government-backed scheme ensures that you get paid for the surplus energy your solar panels or other renewable energy systems produce.
To receive SEG payments, you need to have a renewable energy system, such as solar panels or a wind turbine, installed and connected to the National Grid. Additionally, a smart meter that records your export readings every half hour is essential. This smart meter will help your energy supplier calculate the amount of electricity you export and determine your payments.
The amount you can earn through SEG payments varies depending on your energy supplier and the type of renewable energy system you have. Currently, the rates range from 2 to 5.6p per kilowatt hour (kWh) of electricity exported to the grid. It’s important to note that SEG payments are separate from other financial support schemes like the Feed-in Tariff (FIT). However, you can combine SEG payments with other incentives, such as the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), to maximize your earnings.
By participating in the SEG scheme, you not only contribute to a greener environment but also benefit financially from your renewable energy investments.
Step 5: Start exporting and get paid
Once your smart meter is installed, you can start exporting excess electricity back to the grid and earning payments. Your supplier will provide you with regular statements showing how much electricity you have exported and how much you will be paid. The SEG export tariff allows you to earn money by selling surplus energy back to the grid, providing an additional income stream.
NOTE: It may take a while for your SEG application to be accepted as there are a high volume of applications currently being processed by energy companies. You’ll still be saving money with solar while you wait, so don’t worry about losing out while you’re waiting for your approval to come through. It is important to submit regular export meter readings to ensure accurate billing and tariff management.
To qualify for the SEG scheme, you must either opt out of Feed-in Tariff (FiT) payments or confirm you are not currently receiving SEG payments from any other source.
Tips and Reminders
Here are some valuable tips and reminders to help you make the most of the Smart Export Guarantee scheme:
Install and Connect: Ensure you have a renewable energy system installed and connected to the National Grid. This could be solar panels, a wind turbine, or other eligible systems.
Smart Meter: Make sure you have a smart meter installed that can record your export readings every half hour. This is crucial for receiving accurate SEG payments.
Compare Suppliers: Different energy suppliers offer varying SEG tariffs. Compare them to find the best deal that suits your needs and maximizes your earnings.
Understand Terms: Carefully read the terms and conditions of your SEG tariff to understand how payments are made and what you need to do to receive them.
Keep Records: Maintain records of your export readings and payments to ensure you are receiving the correct amount. This will help you track your earnings and resolve any discrepancies.
Combine Incentives: Consider combining SEG payments with other financial support schemes, such as the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), to boost your overall earnings.
Switch from FIT: If you are already receiving FIT payments, you can opt out of your FIT export payments and switch to SEG payments instead. This might offer better rates and more flexibility.
Battery Storage: If you have a battery storage system, you may need to provide additional documentation to prove how you separate generated electricity from the electricity you got from the grid.
By following these tips and reminders, you can effectively navigate the Smart Export Guarantee scheme and maximize your earnings from generating and exporting excess renewable electricity.