For businesses in Worksop, North Notts, the East Midlands, Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, and Lincolnshire, investing in solar energy is a strategic decision. It not only reduces operational costs but also creates a new revenue stream through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme.
The SEG scheme mandates that energy suppliers with over 150,000 domestic customers must offer a tariff for any surplus renewable electricity that businesses and homes export to the grid. The rates, however, vary significantly. Understanding these differences is crucial for any business looking to maximise its return on investment.
At GB Solar, we’re committed to helping commercial clients in our region make informed decisions about their solar power. This guide provides a clear overview of the current commercial SEG rates to help you understand your options.
Current Commercial SEG Rate Landscape
The rates you can receive are often tied to whether you are a customer of the energy supplier for both your imported and exported electricity. The highest rates are generally offered to customers who have a battery storage system, as this allows them to export energy during peak demand hours.
Here is a breakdown of the leading commercial SEG tariffs:
For Businesses with Battery Storage
These tariffs offer the highest potential earnings, rewarding businesses that can export electricity strategically during times of high demand.
- E.ON Next – Next Export Premium Plus: Offers a rate of 21p/kWh on a 24-month fixed contract. This is available to E.ON Next electricity customers who have had solar panels and/or a battery installed by E.ON after October 1, 2024.
- Octopus Energy – Intelligent Octopus Flux: This variable tariff can reach an average of 27p/kWh, with peak rates of over 30p/kWh. It’s designed for Octopus customers with a compatible battery system and provides an excellent return for businesses that can manage their export times.
For Businesses with Solar Panels Only
If you have a straightforward solar PV system without a battery, you can still access competitive fixed rates by becoming a customer of the same supplier for your imported electricity.
- E.ON Next – Next Export Exclusive: 16.5p/kWh on a 12-month fixed contract. This tariff is available to E.ON Next customers or those who have had an installation from E.ON.
- British Gas – Export and Earn Plus: Offers a rate of 15.1p/kWh. This is a variable tariff exclusive to British Gas electricity customers.
- EDF Business Energy: Has offered fixed-term tariffs for its business customers at 15p/kWh.
- Octopus Energy – Panel Power: A fixed rate of 12p/kWh specifically for business and charity customers.
For All Businesses (No Switching Required)
If your business prefers not to switch electricity suppliers, there are still tariffs available, although the rates are generally lower.
- ScottishPower – SmartGen: A notable option at 12p/kWh, making it one of the most competitive “no-strings-attached” tariffs on the market.
- Octopus Energy – SEG Tariff: Offers a flat rate of 4.1p/kWh to any eligible generator, regardless of their import supplier.
- E.ON Next – Next Export: This tariff pays 3p/kWh and is available to anyone, with eligibility for systems up to 5MW.
Summary of Commercial SEG Tariffs
| Supplier | Tariff Name | Rate (p/kWh) | Notes |
| E.ON Next | Next Export Premium Plus | 21p | E.ON customer, solar + battery installed by E.ON |
| Octopus Energy | Intelligent Octopus Flux | Up to 30p (variable) | Octopus customer with compatible battery |
| E.ON Next | Next Export Exclusive | 16.5p | E.ON customer or solar installed by E.ON |
| British Gas | Export and Earn Plus | 15.1p | British Gas electricity customer |
| EDF | Business Energy Tariff | 15p | EDF electricity customer |
| Octopus Energy | Panel Power | 12p | Specifically for businesses and charities |
| ScottishPower | SmartGen | 12p | Open to all, no switching required |
| Octopus Energy | SEG Tariff | 4.1p | Open to all, no switching required |
Partner with GB Solar
Based in Worksop, North Notts, GB Solar serves commercial clients across the East Midlands, Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, and Lincolnshire. We provide a comprehensive service, from expert system design to seamless installation, to help you reduce your energy bills and generate a new income stream.
To learn more about how your business can benefit from commercial solar and the SEG scheme, contact our team for a professional consultation. We will provide a tailored plan to ensure your investment delivers maximum returns.
Contact GB Solar today to arrange a free, no-obligation commercial solar assessment.
