Smart Export Guarantee for business solar
May apply to your businessThe main ongoing payment for private businesses: get paid per kWh for surplus solar you export to the grid, on systems up to 5MW.
Who qualifies
Any generator in Great Britain with an eligible installation up to 5MW capacity (solar PV, wind, hydro, anaerobic digestion, or micro-CHP up to 50kW). Available to businesses, not just households. You need a meter that provides half-hourly export readings (typically a smart meter). Installations up to 50kW usually need MCS certification; above 50kW, suppliers accept equivalent quality assurance. You cannot claim SEG for the same generation you're also being paid FiT export payments on.
How much it is worth
There is no fixed government rate. Each SEG licensee (larger electricity suppliers must offer a tariff) sets its own rate, which by law must always be above zero. In 2026 the best available business/commercial export rates run to roughly 14-16p per kWh from selected suppliers, while many standard fixed commercial tariffs sit lower (around 3-8p/kWh). Rates are indicative and change frequently - always compare current tariffs. SEG is export-only; it does not pay you for solar you use on site (that saving comes from avoided import costs).
Where it stands in 2026
Open and ongoing as of July 2026. This is the principal live incentive for commercial solar in Great Britain following the closure of the Feed-in Tariff to new applicants. Not a grant - it is an ongoing per-kWh payment.
How to claim the Smart Export Guarantee
- 1Install eligible generation (solar PV up to 5MW) with the required certification (MCS up to 50kW, or equivalent quality assurance above 50kW).
- 2Ensure you have a meter capable of half-hourly export readings (usually a smart meter with export capability).
- 3Compare SEG tariffs from SEG licensees - you can choose a different supplier for export than for import.
- 4Apply directly to your chosen SEG licensee and provide MCS/installation certificate, meter details (MPAN) and proof of ownership.
- 5Submit or allow automatic export meter readings; the supplier pays you per kWh exported.
Key facts, checked against official sources
- Ofgem confirms the maximum eligible capacity is 5MW for solar PV (50kW for micro-CHP).
- Ofgem confirms SEG licensees set their own rates and rates must always be above zero - there is no guaranteed government rate.
- Business/commercial SEG income is taxable trading income per HMRC treatment; the tax-free treatment only applies to domestic microgeneration, not businesses.
- 2026 rate figures (14-16p/kWh best commercial) are indicative from market comparison sources, not a fixed official figure - verify the live tariff before quoting to a client.
Reliefs like this change the true net cost of every funding route. Model it in the finance calculator, or see how it fits alongside the other options on the grants & funding hub.