| Provider | Rate | Annual | 25-Year |
|---|---|---|---|
Deemed Export: Some SEG providers calculate your export based on a fixed assumption — typically 50% of your generation. This comes from the old MPAN-based system used before smart meters were widespread. You get paid on this "deemed" amount regardless of how much you actually export.
Actual Metered Export: With a smart meter (SMETS2), your export is measured precisely. You get paid only for what you actually send to the grid.
Which is better? If you use most of your solar yourself (high self-consumption), deemed is usually better — you get paid for 50% even if you only export 30%. If you export most of your solar (low self-consumption), actual metered export benefits you more.
Choosing the best SEG tariff. SEG rates vary wildly between suppliers. from 1p/kWh to over 15p/kWh. This calculator compares the main providers so you can see which one pays the most for your export. Switching SEG provider can add hundreds of pounds to your annual earnings.
Deciding whether to get a battery. A battery reduces the amount you export (because you store and use more yourself). Whether this saves money depends on the difference between your import price and the SEG rate. If you pay 28p to import but only earn 5p from exporting, every kWh you keep is worth 23p. The calculator shows the break-even point.
Understanding Octopus export tariffs. Octopus offers the highest export rates, including variable tariffs that pay more at peak times. This calculator helps you understand what you'd actually earn versus the headline rate.
The SEG is a government-backed scheme that requires licensed electricity suppliers to offer tariffs for small-scale low-carbon generators (like solar panels) who export electricity to the grid. It replaced the Feed-in Tariff scheme for new installations from January 2020.
Yes. all SEG tariffs require a smart meter that can measure export (half-hourly metering). If you don't have a smart meter, you may still qualify but would receive a deemed (estimated) export payment, which is usually much lower.
Yes. you don't have to use the SEG tariff from your electricity supplier. You can have your import from one supplier and your SEG from another. Octopus is currently the most popular SEG provider due to its higher rates.
For a typical 4 kWp system exporting 60% of generation, annual SEG earnings range from about £80 (at 4p/kWh) to £300+ (at Octopus variable rates). The difference between the cheapest and best SEG tariff could be £200+ per year.
Yes. All calculations run in your browser.
Most solar calculators lump SEG earnings into an annual savings figure without showing you the breakdown. This one focuses purely on export income and lets you compare actual SEG rates from different suppliers. It's the tool you need after you've decided on solar. to make sure you're getting paid properly for what you generate.
Works offline, no sign-up, no tracking, and no installer will call you after using it.
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