SEG Tariffs for Hotels 2026 — UK Supplier Comparison

UK hotel solar PV installations that export surplus generation to the grid qualify for Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) payments. While hotels typically self-consume 85-95% of generation (limiting export volume), the residual export still contributes £200-£2,800/year of additional revenue depending on system size.

How SEG works

Suppliers above the 150,000-customer threshold are legally required to offer SEG tariffs to MCS-certified solar generators with smart meters. Tariffs vary materially by supplier — typical range roughly 4–12p/kWh as at June 2026 (rates move on short notice; verify the live rate before contracting).

Supplier comparison 2026

Octopus Energy Business — flat business export rate around 12p/kWh as at June 2026 (the residential Outgoing fixed rate has paid 12p since 1 March 2026, down from its previous level). Strong customer service and smart meter integration. Top of supplier comparison for most hotel SEG arrangements.

E.ON Next Business — typically 4-7p/kWh. Multi-supplier convenience for hotels also on E.ON import contract.

EDF Energy Business — typically 5-8p/kWh. Long-term supplier relationships preferred.

British Gas Business — typically 4-6p/kWh. Limited SEG investment historically.

Shell Energy / Ovo Business — typically 5-9p/kWh. Mid-pack offering.

Practical decisions

For hotels with substantial residual export (>15% of total generation), supplier selection materially affects SEG revenue — typical £400-£1,400/year delta between best and worst SEG offerings for a 100 kW hotel install.

For hotels with very high self-consumption (>95% — typical of spa, conference, country house properties), SEG revenue is small enough that supplier convenience typically beats marginal SEG tariff optimisation.

See hotel solar grants & funding for the broader funding route guide.