All the jargon around solar energy—FiT, SEG, import, export—can feel overwhelming. But at Solar Suffolk, we’re here to simplify it for you. If you’ve had solar panels installed, or you’re thinking about it, it’s important to understand the different options available for getting paid for the electricity you export back to the grid.

What Was the FiT (Feed-in Tariff)?

You might have heard of the Feed-in Tariff (FiT), especially if your solar system was installed a few years ago. The FiT scheme was a government-backed initiative designed to promote renewable energy by paying homeowners for the electricity they generated—and for any excess energy exported to the national grid.

Although the FiT scheme closed to new applicants in 2019, many people still benefit from it today. If you’re already on a FiT tariff, it’s worth reviewing your current rate before switching to anything new. In many cases, the FiT rate is higher than what’s offered under newer schemes like SEG.

What Is the SEG (Smart Export Guarantee)?

The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) replaced the FiT in 2020. It ensures that larger energy suppliers (those with over 150,000 customers) offer payments to customers for the surplus electricity they export to the grid.

Unlike FiT, there’s no fixed SEG rate—suppliers set their own, as long as it’s more than £0 per kilowatt hour (kWh). These tariffs can be fixed or variable, depending on the supplier. That’s why it’s important to shop around and compare. Use a reliable comparison site to find the best SEG tariff that matches your energy usage and solar generation.

What Are Export Tariffs?

Beyond FiT and SEG, some energy suppliers offer their own export tariffs. These can sometimes offer better rates than SEG, but they’re not government-protected. This means suppliers can set any rate—and include specific terms and conditions.

For example, some export tariffs may require you to also switch your electricity import contract to them, which may not be as competitive. So it’s crucial to read the fine print and make sure the deal works for you both ways.

Do You Need to Sign Up for an Export Tariff?

Yes—unless you signed up for the FiT before 2019, you won’t be paid for any electricity you export unless you enrol in a tariff. Your solar PV system will naturally prioritise powering your home. But without battery storage, any unused electricity is automatically sent back to the grid. If you’re not registered with a tariff like SEG or a supplier-specific export plan, that extra energy is essentially given away for free.

At Solar Suffolk, we recommend you investigate all options using a trusted comparison site to help you make the most of your solar investment. Whether you’re new to solar or thinking about switching tariffs, get in touch—we’re here to help.