In the UK, we don’t use the term “net metering” like some other countries do (like the US). Instead, we use the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) — and yes, you can absolutely benefit from it.
💡 What Is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)?
The SEG lets you earn money by selling your unused solar energy back to the grid. When your panels produce more electricity than you’re using—like on a sunny day—your smart meter tracks that extra energy and your energy supplier pays you for it.
📈 How Much Can You Earn?
SEG payments are usually between £0.04 to £0.30 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), depending on your supplier. Here’s a rough idea:
| Extra Solar Energy Exported | SEG Rate (Example) | Yearly Earnings |
| 1,500 kWh | 10p per kWh | £150 |
| 2,000 kWh | 12p per kWh | £240 |
| 3,000 kWh | 15p per kWh | £450 |
✅ Will You Benefit?
Yes—if your system generates more electricity than you use during the day (which is very common), you’ll earn money for that unused power.
You benefit most if:
- You’re not home during the day (when panels are producing)
- You don’t have a battery, so unused energy gets exported
- You pick a supplier offering a good SEG rate (some pay 2x more than others)
📌 Summary
While it’s not called net metering, the UK’s Smart Export Guarantee is a similar concept—and it puts money back in your pocket for the clean energy you don’t use.
