How to Switch SEG Supplier
Switching your Smart Export Guarantee supplier is straightforward and free. Your electricity supply is completely unaffected. The whole process takes 5-10 working days.
Before You Start
Gather these documents before beginning your switch:
- 1.MCS Certificate — Proof of your certified solar installation. If you were on the Feed-in Tariff, your Ofgem FIT registration number works too.
- 2.Export MPAN — Your 13-digit export meter point number. Found on your electricity bill or by contacting your DNO. Use our MPAN Lookup tool to find your regional DNO.
- 3.Smart Meter — A SMETS2 smart meter capable of recording exports. Most suppliers will install one for free if you do not have one.
Step-by-Step Guide
Compare SEG Rates
Check our SEG rates table for the latest rates from all suppliers. Consider whether you want a fixed rate (simpler) or a variable/agile rate (potentially higher with a battery).
Apply Online
Visit your chosen supplier's website and apply for their SEG tariff. You will need to provide your export MPAN, MCS certificate, and bank details for payment.
Supplier Handles the Switch
Your new supplier contacts your current SEG provider and arranges the transfer. You do not need to notify your old supplier yourself.
Confirmation (5-10 Working Days)
You will receive confirmation from the new supplier once the switch is complete. Payments start from the transfer date with no gap in earnings.
Key Fact
Your SEG supplier is completely independent of your electricity supplier. You can buy electricity from British Gas and sell your exports to Octopus Energy. Switching SEG supplier does not affect your electricity supply in any way.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Confusing import and export MPANs. Your export MPAN is different from your supply MPAN. It typically starts with a different profile class.
Not having a smart meter. Most good SEG tariffs require a SMETS2 smart meter. Without one, you may be limited to deemed export rates (typically much lower).
Staying on the default rate. Many solar owners are on their installer's default SEG rate of 3-5p/kWh. Switching to Octopus at 24p/kWh could increase earnings by 4-8x.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch SEG supplier without changing electricity supplier?
Yes. Your SEG export supplier is completely independent of your electricity import supplier. You can switch one without affecting the other.
How long does a SEG switch take?
A typical SEG switch takes 5-10 working days. During the switch there is no gap in your export payments — the new supplier starts from the date of transfer.
Do I need to notify my current SEG supplier?
No. The new supplier handles the entire switch process. They will notify your current SEG supplier on your behalf.
Will I lose any export payments during the switch?
No. Your current supplier will pay for exports up to the transfer date, and the new supplier pays from that date onwards. There should be no gap.
What documents do I need to switch SEG supplier?
You will need your MCS certificate (or Ofgem FIT registration number), your export MPAN (found on your electricity bill or smart meter), and your smart meter serial number.
Ready to Switch?
Compare the latest rates and start earning more from your solar exports.