Smart Export Guarantee for Businesses: Complete Guide 2026
Learn how your business can earn money from excess solar generation through the Smart Export Guarantee, with current tariff comparisons and optimization tips.
Smart Export Guarantee for Commercial Solar
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) pays businesses for electricity exported to the grid from solar installations. While self-consumption delivers the best returns, the SEG ensures you earn from any excess generation.
How the SEG Works
When your solar system generates more electricity than your business uses, the excess is exported to the grid. SEG-licensed suppliers must offer payment for this exported electricity.
Key requirements:
- MCS-certified installation
- Smart meter or export meter
- System up to 5MW capacity
- Registered with a SEG licensee
Current SEG Tariff Rates (2026)
SEG tariffs vary by supplier and typically range from 3-15p/kWh:
| Tariff Type | Rate Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed rate | 4-6p/kWh | Stable, predictable income |
| Variable rate | 3-15p/kWh | Tracks wholesale prices |
| Time-of-use | 5-12p/kWh | Higher rates at peak times |
Maximizing SEG Income
While self-consumption is more valuable (saving 20-27p/kWh vs earning 4-6p/kWh), you can maximize export income by:
- Choosing the best tariff for your export pattern
- Considering battery storage to export at peak times
- Reviewing tariffs annually as rates change
Self-Consumption vs Export
For commercial installations, maximizing self-consumption delivers better returns:
- Self-consumption: Save 20-27p/kWh (grid electricity cost)
- Export: Earn 4-6p/kWh (SEG rate)
This is why we design systems to maximize daytime self-consumption, with SEG providing income for any unavoidable excess.
Registering for SEG
After installation, register with your chosen SEG licensee. You'll need:
- MCS certificate from your installer
- Proof of ownership or tenancy
- Smart meter installation confirmation
- Bank details for payments