Solar · Advice
Why do export rates vary so much between suppliers?
Short answer
SEG only sets a floor above zero, so suppliers compete on price and conditions. Fixed rates pay the same for every unit; time-of-use export pays more at peak times, which suits batteries. Many of the best rates require you to buy your import from the same supplier or own a battery or EV, so compare the whole package.
Last checked 24 September 2026 · 2 sources
In more detail
- SEG licensees decide rate, type and length; tariffs can be fixed, variable or time-of-use.
- Example: Octopus Flux pays and charges most 16:00-19:00 and least 02:00-05:00; needs solar + battery, half-hourly smart meter, export MPAN and import/export with Octopus.
- Rates fell since 2022-23 peaks as wholesale prices eased.
The facts, dated
- 01SEG licensees decide rate, type and length of their export tariffs
regulation · GB · checked 24 September 2026 · Ofgem
- 02Octopus Flux cheap period 02:00-05:00 and peak 16:00-19:00 UK local time — 02:00-05:00; 16:00-19:00
market_data · GB · checked 24 September 2026 · Octopus Energy
What we saw in the field
Homeowner notes export rates fell after 2022-23 making payback less favourable; consistent with SEG being market-set.
Sources
- Ofgem — www.ofgem.gov.uk/sites/default/files/docs/2020/02/seg_generator_guidance_-_final…
- Octopus Energy — octopus.energy/smart/flux/
Last checked: 24 September 2026