Solar · Advice
Do I need a smart meter to be paid for exported solar?
Short answer
Yes, in practice. SEG payments need a meter that records half-hourly export with an export MPAN, which normally means a smart meter set up for export. Old spinning-disc meters can run backwards when you export, which should be reported. Households on Feed-in Tariff deemed export switch to metered export once a smart meter is fitted.
Last checked 24 September 2026 · 2 sources
In more detail
- Ofgem SEG: meter capable of half-hourly export measurement, export MPAN, registered under the BSC.
- Ofgem FIT: deemed export payments stop and metered export payments start when a smart meter records export.
- Battery/EV additions must keep FiT generation measurable separately or payments stop.
- Export not showing on bills usually means the export MPAN is not registered or the meter is not configured for export.
The facts, dated
- 01SEG requires a half-hourly-capable export meter with an export MPAN
regulation · GB · checked 24 September 2026 · Ofgem
- 02FIT deemed export stops and metered export applies after smart meter installation
scheme · GB · checked 24 September 2026 · Ofgem
Sources
- Ofgem — www.ofgem.gov.uk/sites/default/files/docs/2020/02/seg_generator_guidance_-_final…
- Ofgem — www.ofgem.gov.uk/environmental-and-social-schemes/feed-tariffs-fit/feed-tariffs-…
Last checked: 24 September 2026