• 1–2 solar panels (usually up to ~800W)
• A microinverter
• A cable that plugs into a regular socket in your home

Once connected, the system feeds electricity straight into your home, reducing how much you draw from the grid during the day.

How does plug in solar work?

Plug in solar works by generating electricity from sunlight in DC and converts it into usable AC power via a microinverter. That power is then used instantly by appliances in your home, thereby reducing your electricity bill automatically. There’s no need for complex rewiring — your home simply uses the solar energy first before pulling from the grid.

Is plug in solar legal in the UK?

As of April 2026, plug in kits are not yet fully permitted under existing UK wiring rules, but that is about to change. The UK government has confirmed plans to enable plug-in systems by updating regulations. Specifically:

• The government is working with the Energy Networks Association, DNOs and Ofgem to update the G98 distribution code and wiring regulations BS 7671
• This will allow UK households to connect <800W plug-in solar panels directly to domestic mains sockets
• Systems will not require an electrician
• New tailored safety standards will be introduced

In addition:

• BS 7671 Amendment 4 (2026) to the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations is scheduled for publication on 15 April 2026
• Often referred to as the “Orange Book,” it includes updates on:
  • battery storage
  • ICT earthing
  • Power over Ethernet (PoE)
• There will be a six-month transition period, with the previous version withdrawn on 15 October 2026

In practical terms, this means plug in systems should become widely available in the UK during 2026 with broader adoption following shortly after. Fill in the form below to be kept updated.

How much can plug in solar save you?

A typical plug in system of 800W should save a typical household around £80–£150 per year on electricity bills, depending on usage patterns, energy prices and how well the panels are oriented towards the sun. Because the systems will be relatively low-cost, if you’re paying £0.26/kWh, systems could pay back in 5-8 years making plug in solar very attractive to suitable homes in the UK.

Will you need an electrician?

No. When the regulations are updated (see below) an electrician will not be required for compliant plug-in systems under 800W. Systems will be designed for safe, DIY installation

Is plug in solar worth it in the UK?

For many households — especially renters or those without suitable roofs — plug in solar offers a low-cost entry into solar energy, a non-permanent installation (so you can take it with you if you move home), immediate bill savings – and a payback period of 5-8 years. Panels will continue to generate energy for at least 20 years providing significant savings over their lifetime.

Under Renters’ Rights Act 2025, tenants can request energy improvements and landlords cannot refuse unreasonably, so plug in solar should be suitable for people that live in rented properties. As regulations update and awareness grows, plug in solar is expected to become one of the simplest and fastest-growing ways to adopt solar energy in the UK because of the attractive savings.

When will the plug in kits be available in the UK?

With regulatory updates landing in April 2026 and transitioning through October 2026, plug in solar is expected to be available in mid or late 2026. Fill in the form below to be kept updated.

What is the best orientation for the solar panels?

Orientation has a big impact on how much electricity your plug in solar system generates.

• South-facing is ideal in the UK for maximum output
• East or west-facing can still work well, especially if your usage is morning or evening-heavy
• North-facing is generally not recommended

For balcony setups, perfect positioning isn’t always possible — but even suboptimal angles can still deliver meaningful savings. A slight tilt (around 20–40°) and avoiding shade are often more important than exact direction.

What fixtures and fittings do you need for plug in solar kits?

Most plug in kits will come with the core components, but mounting and setup hardware can vary depending on where you install them. Typical kits will include solar panels, a microinverter and a plug-in cable. Additional fixtures you may need:

• Balcony rail mounts
• Wall brackets
• Ground frames (for gardens or patios)

The key is stability and safety — panels must be securely fixed and able to withstand wind, especially in exposed locations like balconies.

Can you combine plug in solar with batteries?

Yes — and this is where things get more interesting. A battery allows you to store excess daytime energy and use it later in the evening or at night, which can increase your overall savings. However, basic plug in systems do not include batteries by default and adding storage increases cost significantly

There are now emerging “plug-and-play” battery systems that integrate directly with solar kits and energy monitors, making this much simpler than traditional solar + storage setups. For many users, starting without a battery and adding one later is the most cost-effective approach.

Plug in solar represents a major shift in how people access solar energy — moving from complex installations to simple, affordable systems that almost anyone can use. As UK regulations catch up with Europe, it’s likely to become a mainstream home energy solution in the very near future.

Be first to know when the UK regulations are published

Fill in the form below to be updated as soon as the plug in solar regulations for the UK are published.

Check out the video below for more details from our friend at Speak to the Geek

The post What is plug in solar appeared first on Smart Home Energy.

The Cost of Inaction

According to research commissioned by the Retail Energy Code Company (RECCo), energy theft is costing UK consumers an estimated £457 million to £760 million per year. That equates to as much as £28 added to every household’s energy bill — every single year.

But the cost isn’t just financial. It’s human.

“Meter tampering leads to one death every 10 days in Great Britain,”
— Ofgem, June 2025 decision letter

The risks include electrocution, house fires, gas explosions, and severe burns — consequences not only for those committing the crime, but also for innocent neighbours, tenants, and emergency responders.

Energy Theft – The Crisis That Was Allowed to Fester

Despite being aware of these dangers, Ofgem left it to energy suppliers to investigate and prevent theft — a strategy that clearly failed. In Ofgem’s own words:

“Suppliers find it difficult to engage and secure police support… and the cost of investigating more complex instances of theft is a disincentive.”

In the vacuum left by weak enforcement, criminal enterprises flourished. Organised groups began offering meter tampering as a service, enabling cannabis farms, cryptocurrency mining, and other illicit operations. Tutorials on how to steal energy without getting caught are widely available on social media — a direct result of the lack of deterrence.

“There is little fear of prosecution.”
— Ofgem

Perpetrators often escape detection simply by switching energy suppliers. Ofgem concedes that “once the consumer switches supplier, the investigation of the theft stops” — a loophole that has effectively protected repeat offenders for years.

Enter the Energy Theft Unit

The newly established ETU, operated by the City of London Police, will finally bring coordinated enforcement to the table. The unit will be staffed with specialist officers and data analysts and is expected to:

• Investigate cross-supplier theft cases
• Support prosecutions
• Monitor social media for criminal promotion
• Coordinate intelligence industry-wide

The linked Referral Assessment Service (RAS) will act as a filter, forwarding only high-quality cases to the ETU.

The unit’s annual cost will be £1.6 million, rising to £2 million with the RAS included. Ofgem claims that even a 0.33% reduction in theft would make the project cost-effective. That’s a very low bar — and a telling one.

A Long-Overdue Step in the Right Direction

While the ETU is a positive step, it’s also a stark reminder of the damage caused by regulatory neglect. Energy suppliers have been calling for support for years. The public has paid the price — in pounds, in property damage, and in lives.

Ofgem itself now admits the system was broken:

“There is no coordinated action to address cross-supplier instances of energy theft… suppliers currently have no obligation to report energy theft as a crime.”
— Ofgem

The creation of the ETU raises several questions:

• Why did it take until 2025 to act?
• Why were suppliers left without enforcement support?
• Why were consumers expected to absorb the cost?

The Energy Theft Unit could reduce crime, save lives, and lower costs — but this should have happened years ago. Consumers deserve more than a fix — they deserve accountability.

Sign up for the Smart Home Energy Newsletter.

The post Energy Theft Is Costing UK Consumers Up to £28 a Year — and Lives Too appeared first on Smart Home Energy.

Octopus Energy have launched a new feature called Greener Days, to help show when there’s more renewable energy in the electricity mix in order to help the UK cut carbon emissions.

Greener Days are days when there’s a higher share of renewables powering the nation. You can use the Greener Days forecast to plan the best time in the coming week to hoover, do laundry, or charge your EV to help cut UK carbon dioxide emissions.

How do Octopus determine which are Greener Days?

The Octopus boffins check the forecasted wind generation for every night (23:00 – 06:00 the following morning) and calculate the Greener Days score. A score of 100 implies an especially windy night and an unusually high share of wind energy on the grid. This only happens a few times a year. Weather is hard to predict so they’re most confident about the forecast for the upcoming days.

Who can sign up to Greener Days?

Anyone can switch to Octopus Energy (and save £50 straight away!) and anyone who’s interested in their Greener Days forecast can use the forecast tool to plan ahead. You can sign up to receive a Greener Days forecast in your inbox once a week. The forecasts let you know when renewable energy generation is especially high so you can schedule your home appliances, or your EV charging if you’ve got one.

If Octopus supplies green energy how can some days be greener than others?

When you sign up with a renewable energy supplier like Octopus, they don’t pump green energy through a separate ‘green grid’ straight to your home. Instead, all energy sources – whether “green” or “dirty” – get mixed together when they’re fed through the wires that lead to your home. The reason Octopus can claim to be a ‘green’ supplier is that they buy green energy from renewable energy generators to replace the energy their customers use (making the ‘energy mix’ greener in the process) over the years. So day to day, you can still be using energy at ‘greener’ or ‘dirtier’ times. On a greener day, the share of renewable energy is especially high.

What is the benefit of Greener Days for me?

The Greener Days forecast shows you the daily energy mix of the grid. This gives you the power to decide if you’d like to use more energy on Greener Days and less on others, to help you cut your carbon emissions.

I have an EV – how can Greener Days benefit me?

If you have an EV, you can earn what Octopus Energy calls Octopoints when you charge your EV on a Greener Day. The more often you charge on Greener Days, the more Octopoints you can earn . If you’d like to go even further, tariffs like Agile Octopus and Tracker actually financially reward you for planning your energy use around the UK’s power mix. Octopus even reward streaks of Greener Days charging, with one charge a week that must be done on a Greener Day (weeks run from Monday to Sunday). You can earn up to 80 Octopoints per week.

What are Octopoints?

Octopoints are a way of rewarding Octopus Energy customers. You can earn them in different initiatives like Saving Sessions. There are 8 Octopoints to a penny. They can be redeemed for account credit (in GBP) and in the future, other stuff too.

Is there a relationship between Agile Octopus price drops and Greener Days?

Agile’s pricing is often cheaper when the energy in the grid is greener, and more expensive when energy is dirtier. Usually, when the UK’s fossil fuel generating stations have been turned on to meet high demand. But Octopus Agile is tied to wholesale prices which are impacted by a range of other factors. Read more about Octopus Agile.

Is there a relationship between Intelligent Octopus Go and Greener Days?

Intelligent Octopus Go already optimises your charges to the cheapest and greenest times every day. But because of weather changes, some days are still greener than others. Put simply, the stronger the wind, the greener the grid – and the more green electrons to fuel your EV.

Can I still charge my EV if I am away on the Greener days?

Yes. Intelligent Octopus Go will always try to schedule your charge to the greenest times of the night. 

Find out more and sign up to Octopus Energy now to save £50, get 800 Octopoints and access the Greener days forecast as well their super smart balance forecaster. Octopus customers even get to take the wheel of fortune for a spin every time they submit a meter reading!

The post Octopus Greener Days explained appeared first on Smart Home Energy.

What is the UK Energy Price Cap?

The energy price cap is a limit set by Ofgem (the energy regulator) on the maximum amount energy suppliers can charge per unit of gas and electricity. It also caps daily standing charges (the fixed amount you pay to have access to energy). It is NOT a cap on your total bill—what you pay depends on how much energy you use.

Why Does the UK Energy Price Cap Exist?

It was introduced to stop energy companies from overcharging customers on default (standard variable) tariffs. Instead of letting prices skyrocket unchecked, Ofgem reviews the cap every three months to reflect market conditions.

Why Is the UK Energy Price Cap Confusing?

A common misconception is that the price cap limits your total bill. In reality, it only sets maximum rates for unit prices (per kWh) and standing charges. The “total bill” figures you often see in headlines assume a typical household’s usage, but your actual bill depends entirely on how much energy you consume.

Ofgem often makes annoucements like this, which are entirely unhelpful to 99.9% of people:

From today, 1 October 2024, the energy price cap for a typical household that uses gas and electricity and pays by Direct Debit will go up from £1,568 to £1,717 per year. This is an increase of around 10% which adds around £12 a month to an average bill.

Who is this “typical household”? And how much energy do they consume? What type of house do they live in? And how is it heated and powered and insulated? Without knowing any of this it is impossible to tell how the yearly payment figures relate to our own situations.

Building on Ofgems unhelpful annoucements the media often picks up these figures and presents them as if they apply to everyone, which leads to even more confusion. But the truth is your bill will always be based on your own energy usage, not a fixed total.

UK Energy Price Cap Rates

The UK energy price cap changes based on wholesale energy costs and should really have been communicated using pence per kilowatt hour figures from the outset, as in the table below, which shows how the rate have changed over time:

The rates represent the maximum you can be charged, so your bill depends on your actual energy consumption, but your supplier cannot charge more than the capped rates.

How to Save Money on Your Electricity Bill

Now that we know how the price cap works, how can households actually cut costs?

1. Consider Fixed Energy Deals – Are They Worth It?

• Fixed tariffs lock in a unit price for a set period, shielding you from price hikes.
• They can be cheaper than the price cap, but only if wholesale prices are stable or falling.
• Right now, many fixed deals are hovering around the cap level, so always compare before committing.
• Check what you could save via Switchcraft, one of the simplest comparison tools.

2. Is Octopus Agile a Smart Choice?

• Octopus Agile is a dynamic tariff where electricity prices change hourly based on wholesale costs.
• If you can shift your energy use to off-peak times (e.g., charging an EV or running appliances at night), it can save you a lot of money.
• However, if prices spike and you use energy during periods of high demand, your bill could rise, so it’s best for people who can be flexible with their energy use.
• Read more about how smart tarrifs can save you money and explore Octopus Agile.

3. Simple Ways to Cut Energy Costs

We’ve published our Top 10 energy saving tips, which provide full details of ways to cut costs, but some key steps to take include:

• Improving home efficiency: Smart thermostats, LED bulbs, and proper insulation can make a big difference.
• Using appliances wisely: Wash clothes at lower temperatures, avoid standby mode, and air-dry instead of using a tumble dryer.
• Monitoring your usage: A smart meter helps track what you’re spending in real time.

Bottom Line

The energy price cap offers some protection, but it won’t always mean the cheapest bills. If you’re looking to save, compare fixed deals, consider smart tariffs like Octopus Agile, and be mindful of your energy use. Small changes can lead to big savings!

The post UK Energy Price Cap Explained (Properly) appeared first on Smart Home Energy.

But with the UK’s often cloudy weather and the upfront costs of installation, many wonder: are solar panels truly worth it in the UK? Let’s break down the costs, benefits, savings, and practical considerations to help you decide. 

Are solar panels worth it in the UK: Costs and Savings

The initial cost of installing solar panels in the UK typically ranges from £5,000 to £12,000, depending on system size (e.g., a 4kW system for a three-bedroom home averages £6,500) – although plug in solar kits are much cheaper.

This includes panels, an inverter, and installation fees. While this might seem steep, several factors make the investment worthwhile over time.

• Energy Bill Savings: A 4kW system can generate around 3,400 kWh annually in the UK, covering roughly 50-70% of a typical household’s electricity needs (based on Ofgem’s average usage of 2,700 kWh for electricity). With electricity prices at 24p per kWh (as per the October 2024 price cap), this translates to savings of £816 per year. Over 20 years, that’s £16,320—far exceeding the initial cost.
• Smart Export Guarantee (SEG): Since the Feed-in Tariff ended in 2019, the SEG allows you to sell excess electricity back to the grid. Rates vary (e.g., Octopus Energy offers 15p per kWh), but a 4kW system might export 1,000 kWh annually, earning £150 per year, or £3,000 over 20 years.
• Rising Energy Costs: With energy prices volatile (e.g., a 10% rise in the price cap in October 2024), solar panels offer a hedge against future increases, locking in lower energy costs.

Environmental Benefits

Solar panels significantly reduce your carbon footprint. A 4kW system offsets around 1.5 tonnes of CO2 annually, equivalent to planting 70 trees each year. For eco-conscious homeowners, this aligns with the UK’s net-zero goals by 2050, making solar a meaningful step towards sustainability.

Practical Considerations in the UK

• Weather and Efficiency: The UK’s climate isn’t as sunny as Spain, but solar panels still work effectively. They generate electricity from daylight, not direct sunlight, and modern panels perform well even on cloudy days. Southern England (e.g., London) gets around 1,500 hours of sunshine annually, while Scotland averages 1,200 hours—still enough for decent output.
• Roof Suitability: Your roof needs to be south-facing (or near-south), with a 20-40° pitch and minimal shading for optimal performance. If your roof isn’t suitable, ground-mounted systems are an option, though they’re costlier.
• Lifespan and Maintenance: Solar panels typically last 25-30 years, with a 10-20 year warranty on most models. Maintenance is minimal—clean them annually to remove dirt, and budget £100-£200 every 5-10 years for inverter checks.

Government Incentives and Support

While the Feed-in Tariff is gone, the SEG provides export payments, and some local councils offer grants (e.g., the Home Upgrade Grant for low-income households). Additionally, solar installations are VAT-free for residential properties (0% VAT as of 2025), saving you £1,000-£2,000 upfront. If paired with a battery (e.g., AlphaESS G3, costing £3,000-£5,000), you can store excess energy for evening use, maximising savings.

Are solar panels worth it – Potential Drawbacks

• Upfront Cost: The initial investment can be a barrier, though financing options (e.g., 0% interest loans from installers like Heatable) make it more accessible.
• Break-Even Period: It takes 8-12 years to recoup your investment, depending on energy prices and SEG rates. If you plan to move house sooner, this might not suit you.
• Aesthetic Impact: Some find panels less attractive on traditional UK homes, though sleek, all-black designs are now available.

Are Solar Panels Worth It in the UK?

For most UK homeowners, solar panels are worth the investment. Financially, they pay for themselves within 8-12 years and deliver £15,000-£20,000 in savings over their lifespan, while also increasing property value (by 4% on average, per Rightmove). 

Environmentally, they’re a win, cutting your carbon footprint significantly. However, they’re not ideal for everyone—if your roof isn’t suitable, you’re moving soon, or you can’t afford the upfront cost, you might want to explore alternatives like community solar schemes.

Final Thoughts

Solar panels in the UK offer a compelling mix of financial savings, environmental benefits, and energy independence. With government support, rising energy costs, and improving technology, 2025 is a great time to go solar.

If you’re considering solar, get an instant free quote from a trusted installer like Heatable to see how much you could save.

You may also be interested in our posts on solar power diverters and the best batteries for solar power storage.

The post Are Solar Panels Worth It in the UK? appeared first on Smart Home Energy.

Elevating Safety Standards Through Real-Time Monitoring

Advanced monitoring tools provide real-time data on the performance of electrical systems, enabling the diagnosis of faults before they escalate into hazardous situations. For example, in industrial settings, monitoring systems can detect unusual fluctuations in current or voltage. This early detection allows engineers to address issues immediately, preventing costly downtime and ensuring worker safety.

Integrating these tools with other safety systems can create a comprehensive safety net. For instance, insulation monitoring devices are instrumental in proactively monitoring electrical distribution systems to identify potential faults.

In commercial buildings, automatic alerts can notify maintenance teams when readings exceed predefined thresholds. This proactive approach maintains safety standards and fosters a culture of safety within the workplace. By incorporating real-time monitoring, organisations can protect their workers and enhance the longevity of their electrical systems, ensuring that equipment remains reliable and operational for years to come.

Unique Use Cases in Diverse Environments

Advanced monitoring tools are highly versatile, finding unique applications across various environments, each tailored to meet specific safety requirements.

Healthcare Facilities: Safeguarding Patient Care

Ensure that medical equipment operates safely in healthcare settings. Monitoring tools can continuously check the electrical integrity of essential devices. If a vital care machine exhibits abnormal readings, alerts can be triggered to inform staff immediately, preventing equipment failure that could directly impact patient safety.

Regular checks also help facilities comply with regulatory requirements and meet necessary safety standards. By maintaining the electrical integrity of medical devices, healthcare providers can uphold high operational standards vital for patient care.

Residential Settings: Protecting Homes and Families

Homeowners benefit from monitoring solutions that track electrical consumption, allowing them to identify trends and potential issues. For instance, if an appliance begins to draw excessive power, it may indicate a fault that could lead to overheating or fire hazards.

Advanced monitoring tools alert homeowners to these changes, empowering them to take preventive action, such as calling a technician before a minor issue becomes a major crisis. This proactive approach ensures the safety of families and their properties, giving homeowners peace of mind.

Industrial Environments: Enhancing Operational Reliability

In industrial settings, monitoring tools are essential for ensuring safety and efficiency. They can monitor large machinery and electrical installations, identifying faults that could lead to equipment failure. For instance, in a manufacturing plant, monitoring systems can track the electrical load on motors and generators, providing insights that help engineers optimise performance and prevent breakdowns.

Moreover, these tools assist in compliance with safety regulations by generating reports and logs of electrical performance over time. This documentation is invaluable during audits, helping organisations avoid penalties associated with non-compliance. Rigorous monitoring demonstrates a commitment to safety and operational excellence.

Key Features That Enhance Utility and Safety

Several features distinguish advanced monitoring tools from traditional safety measures.

Historical Data Logging

One important feature is the capability to log historical data. This data analysis enables professionals to identify patterns over time, making informed decisions based on trends rather than isolated incidents. Regular spikes in electrical consumption during specific times might indicate underlying issues, such as overloaded circuits or inefficient appliances.

Proactively addressing these trends can prevent future failures and improve energy efficiency. Understanding historical usage patterns enables professionals to implement changes that enhance safety and reliability.

Adapting to Different Environments

Advanced monitoring tools are designed to adapt to various environments, from commercial spaces to residential homes. This flexibility allows for effective implementation of safety measures, regardless of the scale or complexity of the electrical system.

In facilities with multiple types of equipment, monitoring tools can be calibrated to track various parameters, such as temperature, load, and electrical anomalies. This adaptability ensures that safety protocols are tailored to meet specific operational requirements, significantly enhancing safety measures.

Integration with Other Systems

Another significant feature is the ability to integrate with existing systems. Monitoring tools can work alongside fire alarm systems, HVAC controls, and energy management solutions, creating a holistic safety approach. This integration allows comprehensive monitoring of all critical systems within a facility.

Centralising safety data management through integration streamlines operations and enables maintenance teams to respond quickly to alerts. This facilitates more efficient troubleshooting and repairs, enhancing overall safety.

Training and Awareness

Training your team to use these tools effectively is critical. Understanding how to interpret their data can significantly enhance responses to potential hazards. Regular training sessions keep staff updated on safety practices and tools, fostering a culture of safety awareness.

Encouraging a proactive approach to electrical safety protects assets and positions your organisation as a leader in best practices. Investing in education and safety measures contributes to a safer working environment for everyone involved. Implementing these advanced monitoring strategies significantly enhances electrical safety protocols and operational reliability.

The post Ensuring Electrical Safety: Unique Uses of Advanced Monitoring Tools appeared first on Smart Home Energy.

Imagine a system that not only powers your lights but also tracks weather patterns, anticipates energy demands, and redirects surplus energy to storage or the grid. That’s the magic of smart energy management.

How Does It Work?

At the heart of this synergy are smart energy management systems (EMS). These systems use data collected from solar panels, batteries, and connected devices to make informed decisions in real time. For instance, an EMS can prioritise energy storage during peak sunlight hours, ensuring you have a reliable backup when the clouds roll in.

And it’s not just about storage. Smart inverters convert the energy from your solar panels into a form usable by your appliances while adjusting output to match your consumption. They act as the brain of your solar setup, ensuring efficiency and stability.

The Role of IoT in Solar Power

The Internet of Things (IoT) is the unsung hero of modern solar systems. IoT-enabled devices, such as smart thermostats and connected appliances, communicate with your solar setup to balance energy loads intelligently.

For example, a smart thermostat can pre-cool your home during peak solar generation hours, reducing strain on the grid and lowering costs. Likewise, connected appliances like washing machines can be programmed to run during optimal times, further enhancing energy efficiency.

Benefits of Integrating Solar and Smart Tech

1. Improved Energy Efficiency
Smart technology ensures that every watt of energy your solar panels generate is used effectively. By tracking energy usage patterns, these systems minimise waste and maximise efficiency.

2. Cost Savings
With optimised energy usage, businesses and homeowners see lower electricity bills. Additionally, features like predictive maintenance reduce the risk of costly repairs.

3. Enhanced Sustainability
By leveraging smart tech, solar power systems contribute to a more sustainable energy ecosystem. They enable precise control over energy consumption, storage, and sharing.

4. Greater Convenience
Forget manually managing your energy needs. With smart tech, everything happens automatically, allowing you to focus on more important things while your system takes care of the rest.

The Future of Solar and Smart Tech

The partnership between solar power and smart technology is just beginning. Emerging trends include AI-driven energy management and blockchain-enabled peer-to-peer energy trading. Imagine a neighbourhood where homes share surplus solar energy seamlessly—no middleman required.

As smart grids continue to develop, the integration of solar and tech will only become more sophisticated, paving the way for an energy ecosystem that’s efficient, sustainable, and adaptable.

Making the Switch

Adopting solar power integrated with smart technology isn’t just a smart move—it’s a forward-thinking investment in sustainability and efficiency. Whether you’re a business owner looking to cut costs or a homeowner wanting to reduce your carbon footprint, this combination offers immense benefits.

The best part? It’s easier than ever to get started. Many providers now offer systems tailored to your specific needs, complete with user-friendly apps that let you monitor and manage your energy from anywhere.

The post How Solar Power and Smart Tech Work Together appeared first on Smart Home Energy.

Smart home deals for Cleaning

Eufy X10 Pro Omni Robot Vacuum Cleaner

• Features: 8,000 Pa suction, dual mops, AI obstacle avoidance, auto mop washing, and self-emptying.
• Discount: 28% off. Buy now on Amazon for £579

Dreame X40 Ultra Complete Robot Vacuum Cleaner

• Features: 12,000 Pa suction, self-cleaning mop, extensive cleaning capabilities.
• Discount: 27% off. Buy now on Amazon for £949

Eufy L60 Robot Vacuum Cleaner with Self-Empty Station

• Features: Hair detangling technology, ultra-strong 5,000 Pa suction, and laser navigation.
• Discount: 26% off. Buy now on Amazon for £259

Smart home deals for Energy-Efficient Climate Control

Tado° Smart Radiator Thermostat (3-Pack)

• Features: WiFi-enabled multi-room control, easy installation, and compatibility with Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Google Assistant.
• Discount: 44% off. Buy now on Amazon for £112

Tado° Wireless Smart Thermostat Starter Kit V3+

• Features: Boiler and hot water control, energy-saving capabilities, and voice assistant support.
• Discount: 37% off. Buy now on Amazon for £85

Pro Breeze 20L/Day Smart Dehumidifier

• Features: Laundry drying, automatic humidity sensor, and sleep mode.
• Discount: 30% off. Buy now on Amazon for £153

Smart home deals for Next-Level Connectivity

TP-Link Deco XE75 Pro Mesh Wi-Fi 6E System

• Features: Coverage up to 2,900 ft², support for 200+ devices, and 8K streaming compatibility.
• Discount: 30% off. Buy now on Amazon for £349

Tapo Smart Plug (4-Pack)

• Features: Energy monitoring, Alexa and Google Home compatibility, and remote control.
• Discount: 45% off. Buy now on Amazon for £27

Smart home deals for Enhanced Security and Monitoring

Eufy Security Video Doorbell E340

• Features: 2K HD video, dual cameras, color night vision, and no monthly fee.
• Discount: 41% off. Buy now on Amazon for £95

Eufy Security Floodlight Camera E340

• Features: 3K resolution, 360° pan and tilt, and dual-band WiFi.
• Discount: 27% off. Buy now on Amazon for £159

Other Smart home deals

Google Nest Learning Thermostat (3rd Gen)

• Features: Smart energy-saving thermostat with sleek design.
• Discount: 28% off. Buy now on Amazon for £159

Shark NeverChange5 Air Purifier

• Features: HEPA filter, auto mode, and ultra-quiet operation.
• Discount: 40% off. Buy now on Amazon for £149

Smart home technology simplifies everyday living, enhances energy efficiency, and adds a layer of security to your space. With these incredible smart home deals, there’s never been a better time to invest in your home.

Hurry though! These deals are only available for a limited time. Explore the full list of smart home deals to transform your home today and our top 60 smart tech gift ideas.

The post Smart Home Deals – Save Big on Smart Living appeared first on Smart Home Energy.

• Energy saving smart tech gift ideas
• Practical smart tech gift ideas
• Smart home smart tech gift ideas
• Smart tech gift ideas for camping
• Smart tech gift ideas for the garden
• Smart tech gift ideas for entertainment
• Smart watches
• Creative smart tech gift ideas

Energy saving smart tech gift ideas

1. Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen)

Automatically optimizes heating and cooling schedules for energy savings. With a larger bezel-free screen complete with gorgeous animations and advanced AI features, the new Nest Learning Thermostat is a major upgrade. Includes a separate Nest Temperature Sensor in the box. This device lets you set a target temperature for a specific room rather than rely on the main sensor built into the thermostat itself. It also comes in more finishes including Polished Silver, Polished Obsidian and Polished Gold.

Buy Now on Amazon for £410

2. Hive Thermostat for Heating (Combi Boiler) with Hive Hub

Equipped with advanced sensors to control temperature and reduce energy use.  Hive Heating Plus – 50% off annual plan included with this purchase to help you save even more. Set up to six daily time slots. Helps prevent frozen pipes. Set heating alerts when you leave or return home.

Buy now on Amazon for £115 

3. Tapo Smart Plugs with Energy Monitoring

Monitors energy usage and allows remote control of plugged-in devices. works with Alexa and Google Home, No Hub Required. Monitor the average power consumption of the load to determine the usage of electricity and monitor everything from your smart phone. Schedule the smart plug to automatically power electronics on and off as needed.

Buy now on Amazono for £15.49  (2 pack)

4. Meross Smart Plugs with Energy Monitoring

Tracks energy consumption and provides insights to lower usage. Works with Alexa, Google Home, SmartThings, Smart Socket Remote Control Timer Plug, No Hub Required. Helps users schedule when to switch appliances on and off optimally, aiding in electricity bill reduction. Users can input the cost per kilowatt-hour to get an estimate of their electricity bills. Furthermore, the plug can monitor the electricity generated by solar panel installations. Compatible with both Alexa and Google Home, allowing for voice commands like “Alexa, turn off the light”. Customised schedules and timers let you turn devices on and off according to your routine.

Buy now on Amazon for £18.99 (2 pack)

5. Refoss Smart Plugs with Energy Monitoring for HomeKit

Works with Apple HomeKit Siri, Alexa, Google Home. No Hub Required. A HomeKit-compatible plug that tracks energy use and helps optimize device schedules. Suitable for iOS 13 or Android 6.0 or later, HomeKit’s compatibility has been extended to various smart devices, including lighting, sockets, temperature control, and safety systems. This means that users can choose smart devices of different brands, and integrate them into a unified smart home system through the HomeKit platform, which improves the equipment’s interoperability.

Buy now on Amazon for £39.89 (4 pack)

6. Tapo Smart Plug Power Strip

Works with Apple Home Kit, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Smart Things no hub required. Set your electricity rate to estimate your energy bills, offers more comprehensive insights into home appliances’ power consumption with more intuitive and straightforward data visualizations. Supports setting power thresholds to prevent overcharging of mobile phones and other devices. Use simple voice commands with Amazon Alexa, Apple Siri, or Google Assistant to conveniently control connected devices.

Buy now on Amzon for £24.99

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7. T-Smart Tesla Hot Water Cylinder Thermostat

T-Smart is the most radical evolution of technology in the immersion sector for some time. Upgrade your cylinder to a genuine smart appliance for complete remote control of your hot water when its needed via the app. Built in programmers, planners and timers provides unlimited time and temperature settings via the T-Smart app giving you complete flexibility and control. Built-in anti legionella function gives additional piece of mind that the system will be continuously protected from bacteria growth carrying out the antibacterial cycle at least once every 15 days.

Buy now on Amazon for £140

Practical smart tech gift ideas

8. Ninja Foodi 10-in-1 Multifunction Oven

Cooks meals efficiently, using precise heat control to reduce energy waste. Fast Mini Oven, 10 Cooking Functions, Air Fry, Pizza, Grill, Roast, Bake, Toast, Bagel & more for family-size meals. This large capacity countertop oven cooks food on 2 levels, fit 2 pizzas at once. Fit a main and sides at the same time, no need to use 2 appliances. Up to 40% faster than a fan oven, with super-quick 90 second preheat. Air Fry – up to 75% less fat than traditional frying methods.

Buy now on Amazon for £249

9. Dreo Smart Electric Space Heater

A smart space heater for indoor combines Hyperamics 1500W with a new heat funnel design to deliver heat within seconds and enhance warm air circulation for up to 200% farther reach than traditional heaters. Schedule room heating hours to match your routine, access your heater settings from anywhere with the Dreo app, or even use your voice to control it thanks to Alexa and Google Home compatibility. Dreo’s heater warms quietly thanks to its brushless DC motor with frictionless performance and a winglet fan design that reduces turbulence, reducing noise to only 34dB.

Buy now on Amazon for £59.99

10. Keurig K-Mini Single Serve Coffee Maker

The perfect smart coffee maker for anyone who loves their morning brew. Less than 5 inches wide, perfect for small spaces. Brew any cup size between 6-12oz with Keurig K-Cup pods. Just add fresh water for each brew. Coffee made in minutes.

Buy now on Amazon for £79

11. Ember Smart Mug 2

Maintains beverage temperature using minimal energy compared to traditional methods. The Ember Smart Mug allows you to control the temperature of your hot drink from your smartphone. Connect your mug to the Ember app to determine the ideal temperature of your hot drink, and enjoy every drop exactly the way you like it. Also works without being connected to the app. It will then automatically keep your drink at a temperature of 57°C and will remember the last temperature used: this tumbler is really the perfect gift!

Buy now on Amazon for £130

12. Vitesy Shelfy Smart Refrigerator Device

Reduce food waste and save money with the amusingly named “Shelfy”. This device extends the freshness of food up to 12 days more therefore reducing waste. The photocatalytic filter with nanotechnology ensures prolonged freshness and safer food by eliminating pollutants responsible for food ripening. The device also detects how often the refrigerator is opened and sends the information directly to your mobile phone via the Vitesy Hub app. Voice control is available by connecting it to Amazon Alexa or Google Home. Features a washable filter that doesn’t need replacement.

Buy now on Amazon for £119

13. Philips Eco Conscious Toaster

A fairly standard toaster but made with 100% plant-based plastics to reduce its CO₂ footprint by 14%, this eco-friendly toaster offers a sustainable choice without compromising on quality. 8 browning settings, so you get the perfect golden brown or crispy slice every time, fast, efficient toasting with 830 watts of power that evenly browns your toast. Warm buns, rolls, and pastries with the integrated bun rack, giving you more breakfast options without the need for additional appliances.

Buy now on Amazon for £34.99

14. Lomi Home Composter

Reduces food waste while consuming minimal energy compared to traditional waste disposal. Lomi is the ultimate kitchen appliance for turning food & waste into nutrient-rich compost. Lomi uses advanced technology to break down food waste quickly and efficiently, producing compost in as little as 4 hours. Includes your first 45 cycles of filters & pods. 12″ tall, 16″ wide, 13″ deep.

Buy now on Amzon for £399

15. RENPHO Smart Scale

A high-tech scale that measures weight, body fat, and more. Connect the smart scales with the Renpho Health App to track your 13 essential body measurements, including body weight, body fat percentage, BMI, muscle mass, etc. Equipped with automatic calibration and 4 high-precision sensors. Easily switch between 4 units (lb, kg, st, st:lb) via the app to suit your preference. The smart app seamlessly syncs with other leading fitness apps such as Samsung Health, Apple Health, Fitbit and works with Apple Watch (excluding Apple Watch Series 1). This is one of our favorite smart tech gift ideas.

Buy now on Amazon for £24

Smart home smart tech gift ideas

16. Tapo Smart Motion Sensor

Captures motion up to 23 ft.(7m) away and through 120° view. Activate your Tapo devices whenever motion is detected for security or home automation. Easy installation, mount it by attaching 3M adhesive or the build-in magnets. Automatically turn on connected smart devices when you come and go, with 2 years manufacturers warranty. Real-time notifications alert you in Away Mode for anything you want to know (Tapo Hub Required – sold separately). 

Buy now on Amazon for £14.99

17. Onvis Motion Sensor for Apple HomeKit

A motion sensor based on the Thread protocol, with faster, low energy usage connections for reliable device communication. It requires an Apple TV 4K 128GB (Wi-Fi + Ethernet), HomePod Mini or HomePod 2nd gen as your home hub. Also monitors temperature and humidity and can trigger other AppleKit smart home devices to save energy when it gets bright/dark. 100° field of view and up to 7m detection range. Once the motion detector is triggered, it will send real-time alert notifications to your smartphone whether you’re at home or away.

Buy now on Amazon for £32

18. iRobot Roomba j7+

A smart robot vacuum that cleans your home autonomously, saving time and effort. Enjoy an exceptionally seamless home cleaning experience: Roomba j7 Robot Vacuum learns your home and your routines to adapt to your life. It also works with Alexa.

Buy now on Amazon for £319

19. Ecovacs Deebot X1 Omni Robot Vacuum

The latest model with advanced cleaning and mopping functions. After mopping, your DEEBOT returns to station and automatically washes the mops, the machine pumps dirty water into the waste tank and dries mops with hot air, keeping the mopping pads clean without unpleasant odour. The Clean Station can clean itself with one tap, pump dirty water into the waste tank, without the need for frequent disassembling and washing. Perhaps not the most romantic of smart tech gift ideas, but it might reduce the arguments about whose turn it is to do the vacuuming!

Buy now on Amazon for £599

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20. Google Nest Hub

A smart display that works as a home assistant, video chat tool, and entertainment hub. Catch up on Netflix shows, watch YouTube videos, listen to music on the enhanced speaker, relive your favourite Google Photos, and more. Keep listening, from room to room. The enhanced speaker delivers 50% more bass than the original Nest Hub. Create groups with other Nest speakers and displays for brilliant sound in every room. You can even use Quick Gestures to control many Nest Hub features. Play or pause a song or video, snooze an alarm, and stop a timer.

Buy now on Amazon for £90

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21. Echo Studio

A smart speaker that delivers premium sound and integrates with Alexa. Echo Studio now features spatial audio processing technology for a wider and more immersive audio experience. For stereo formats, spatial audio processing technology creates a wider and more enveloping sound stage. Its five speakers produce powerful bass with improved clarity, dynamic midrange and crisp highs. Dolby Atmos technology adds space, clarity and depth. Stream songs from Amazon Music, Apple Music, Spotify, Deezer and more. Automatically senses the acoustics of your space, fine-tuning playback for optimal sound. Ask Alexa to control Zigbee-compatible devices or to play music, read the news and answer questions. Use your Alexa devices like an intercom and talk to any room in the house using Drop In and Announcements.

Buy now on Amazon for £249

22. Philips Hue White & Color Ambiance Starter Kit

Add smart lighting to any room with a variety of colours and effects. Everything you need is included in this starter kit. Simply connect your Bridge to your router, screw in your new Philips Hue lights and take advantage of smart home lighting via the ‘Philips Hue’ app.

Buy now on Amazon for £165

23. Wyze Cam v3 Smart Security Camera

A budget-friendly security camera with HD video quality and motion detection. An all-new Starlight Sensor records night time video in full, vivid colour. The Starlight Sensor can see full colour in environments up to 25x darker than traditional video cameras and the new f/1.6 aperture captures 2x more light and has an IP65 rating so you can confidently install it outside in the rain or inside in the kids’ room. Compatibility – Android 5.0+, iOS 9.0+. Wyze Cam records video when motion or sound is detected and sends an alert straight to your phone. 

Buy now on Amazon for £65

24. Tile Pro 2024

A smart tracker to help keep track of keys, bags, and more. Protect lost or stolen stuff and make family life easier. Attach to valuables like car keys, golf bags and camera gear. Discreetly trigger an SOS alert to your loved ones in unsafe situations. Ring your misplaced Tile, or track it down in the free app. This is one of the most practical smart tech gift ideas for people that have a habit of misplacing things!

Buy now on Amazon for £35

Smart tech gift ideas for camping

25. Anker 100w Solar Panel Charger

A portable solar charger for eco-friendly device charging. The solar panel converts up to 23% of sunlight into solar energy and effortlessly charges solar systems even on cloudy days. The lightweight solar panel features a USB-C and a USB-A output to charge 2 devices simultaneously. Simply position the solar panel with the adjustable mount so that it receives just the right amount of sunlight.

Buy now on Amazon for £99

26. Jackery Explorer 1000 Generator

Powers devices using charge from AC power or solar energy, ideal for off-grid enthusiasts. Jackery’s new, upgraded Power Station features 50% increase in power output in comparison to the old E1000 model,. It charges 7.5x faster, with impressive 1 hour fast charging. The LiFePO4 battery has 4x longer lifespan, supporting 4,000 life cycles and retains over 70% capacity. CE certified, combined with full fire and shock resistance – ensuring quality and maximum safety. Boasting mega 1500W AC output and 3000W surge peak, it supports home appliances, from air conditioners to induction cookers. It features 100W PD Fast USB-C charging (input & output) for efficient recharging, with generous 1070Wh capacity, and is small in size – saving space. Equipped with 6 charging ports (2 USB-C, 1 USB-A, 1 DC Car Port and 2 Pure Sine Wave AC Ports), Jackery’s Explorer 1000 V2 powers multiple devices simultaneously. Weighing 23.8 lbs with an ergonomic handle, it’s easy to carry on the go, with built-in LED lights, ideal for camping, hiking, and emergencies.

Buy now on Amazon for £899

27. Goal Zero solar charging kit

A compact solar energy charging unit and battery for small devices. The upgraded Venture 35 Power Bank joins forces with the Nomad 10 Solar Panel to provide an endless supply of rugged, portable power. Perfect for outdoor recreation and emergency use, the 9600 mAh power bank is equipped with a dustproof/waterproof IP67 rating, an 18W USB-C Power Delivery port, and two USB output ports for charging multiple devices at once. Recharge the Venture 35 from the wall or connect to the Nomad 10 to power up from the sun while away from the grid. Can withstand submersion up to 1 meter of water for at least 30 minutes. 

Buy now on Amazon for £160

28. Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 multi functional light & charger

Perfect for camping and outdoor events. Directional and adjustable LED light, up to 600 lumens. Recharge the internal battery from any USB port, from the sun with a Goal Zero solar panel, or use the built-in hand crank to charge up in an emergency. 1 minute of crank can power the light for 10 minutes on a low setting. Internal lithium battery boasts 5200 mAh with a USB output, enough power to charge phones, headlamps, tablets, LED flashlights and all your other camping or survival gear and equipment. Collapsible legs provide a stand for maximum light dispersion . A built-in handle allows for easy carrying and hanging.

Buy now on Amazon for £44

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29. Alpicool 20 Litre Mini Fridge

The Alpicool C20 car refrigerator can be a fridge or freezer and can cool to 0℃(32℉) in 30 minutes. With a temperature memory function and 3 different levels for battery protection to protect your vehicle battery without run down. The refrigerating system will stop operating when it reaches the set temperature and will restart when the temperature in the box rises. Reliable construction, thick and high density foam insulation. Who doesn’t like a cold drink in when you’re camping the summer!? This is one of our coolest smart tech gift ideas.

Buy now on Amazon for £169

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30. Mophie Powerstation 10K Wireless Power Bank

A portable power bank for keeping devices charged on the go. Contains a 10,000 mAh internal battery for up to 2 full phone charges. Charge up to two devices thanks to the USB-C and USB-A ports.

Buy now on Amazon for £17

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Smart tech gift ideas for the garden

31. Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller

Saves water and energy by intelligently adjusting irrigation schedules. Rachio 3 is the top-of-the-line product from the highest-rated WiFi sprinkler controller brand. Download the Rachio app to care for your garden remotely with your smartphone, tablet or laptop, use a connected home system or run zones directly from the controller itself. Set your own schedules or input details like plant type and sun exposure to let Rachio automatically water your garden with exactly what it needs to thrive, and not a drop more. Weather Intelligence automatically adjusts your irrigation schedule based on comprehensive forecasts in your exact location. Using satellite, radar and weather station data from more than a quarter million sources, Rachio makes sure you’re never caught watering in the rain, wind or snow. Reduce your water bill by up to 50% while keeping your garden healthy. Works with top smart-home platforms, including Amazon Alexa and the Google Assistant.

Buy now on Amazon for £296 (8 zones)

32. Green Feathers Battery Powered Solar Bird Box Camera

This solar powered camera harnesses energy through its built-in solar panel, which charges its internal battery. For someone who likes watching wildlife this is one of the best smart tech gift ideas. The battery powers the camera and enables it to capture and transmit video footage using low power WI-FI. Simple set up – the app makes it easy to get up and running. Comes with a 4m cable to connect to the Solar Panel to allow for optimal positioning in a location with maximum sunlight. With up to 10m infrared night vision capabilities and the natural colouring of the Camera, you can rest assured you can capture all your feathery friends in high definition any time of the day with no disruption to them or their routine. Receive instant notifications to your smart phone or tablet with the latest in PIR motion detection technology.

Buy now on Amazon for £279

Smart tech gift ideas for entertainment

33. Sony PlayStation VR2

The latest in VR gaming, perfect for PlayStation owners. Enjoy stunningly vibrant 4K HDR visuals, 4 in compatible games, a vast 110º field of view and state-of-the-art graphical rendering, all made possible by the power of PS5.  Experience revolutionary PlayStation VR2 Sense technology with eye tracking, headset feedback and 3D Audio, which combines with the new intuitive controllers to create deeply realistic sensations and emotions in compatible games.

Buy now on Amazon for £496

34. DJI Mini 3 Pro Drone

A compact, high-quality drone for taking stunning aerial photos and videos. Film in 4K HDR Video for crystal clear aerial shots. With Dual Native ISO Fusion, Mini 3 enables the capture of details in highlights and shadows, both day and night. Striking vertical videos are ready to Share – with true vertical shooting, you can easily capture tall landmarks like skyscrapers and waterfalls. And after capturing, it’s in the perfect orientation to post to Instagram or TikTok, making it one of the most fun smart tech gift ideas.

Buy now on Amazon for £459

35. AirPods 4

AirPods 4 have been redesigned for exceptional all-day comfort and greater stability. With a refined contour, shorter stem, and quick-press controls for music or calls.

Buy now on Amazon for £169

36. Anker Soundcore Liberty 4

Noise-cancelling earbuds for top-tier sound quality and comfort. Liberty 4 NC noise cancelling earbuds have a high sensitivity in-ear sound sensor, an oversized driver, and an innovative noise isolation chamber that cancels up to 98.5% of noise for peaceful travel. Not everyone listens the same, so use HearID 2.0 to find the perfect sound profile for you. If you want to mix it up, the EQ is fully adjustable or choose from 22 presets to match your audio.

Buy now on Amazon for £70

37. Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless Headphones

Comfortable headphones with excellent sound quality and long battery life. Enjoy premium music quality all-day long thanks to the headphone’s audiophile-inspired 42mm transducer system and aptX Adaptive. Personalised sound via the Sennheiser Smart Control App – Adjust the sound to your individual listening preferences via the integrated equaliser, presets and sound modes for a unique sound experience. The four digital beamforming microphones ensure high-quality voice pick-up and automatically suppress wind noise for optimised calls and easier access to the voice assistant.

Buy now on Amazon for £199

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38. Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700

Premium headphones for immersive sound and noise reduction. 11 levels of active noise cancelling let you enjoy music, podcasts, videos & calls without distractions. Crisp, clear details. Deep, full bass. These wireless headphones produce exciting, lifelike sound that’s full and balanced at every volume level. A revolutionary microphone system adapts to noisy and windy environments so your voice always sounds crystal clear on calls. With easy access to voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant for music, navigation, weather, and more, and intuitive touch control on the earcups — you can stay connected without reaching for your phone.

Buy now on Amazon for £194

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39. Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones

Superior noise cancellation and sound quality for the audiophile in your life. Sony’s flagship wireless headphones with unbeatable noise cancellation, crystal-clear sound quality, industry-leading call quality, luxurious comfort, and more. Now with four mics on each earcup, unwanted sound is eliminated more accurately. Auto NC Optimizer ensures noise cancelling is optimised for your environment. 

Buy now on Amazon for £294

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40. HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless Gaming Headset

A top-tier wireless headset for serious gamers. Up to 300 hours battery life. HyperX Dual chamber drivers, PC compatible. Integrated audio control, detachable noise-canceling microphone and LED indicator.

Buy now on Amazon for £150

41. Roku Express 4K

Energy-efficient streaming device compared to traditional cable boxes. The latest and greatest streaming device for movie buffs and TV show lovers. Streams HD, 4K Ultra HD, and HDR with sharp detail and vivid colour optimised for your TV. Dual-band Wi-Fi for a smooth streaming experience with faster wireless performance, even with multiple devices connected to your network. Enjoy live TV, news, sports, movies and TV episodes on thousands of free and paid channels like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Disney +, ITV Hub, All4, My5, Apple TV+, BT Sport, Prime Video, NOW and many more.

Buy now on Amazon for £30

42. Nanoleaf Lines Smart Light Panels

Customise any space with these smart lighting panels, controlled via an app. Get all the colors you could ever dream of, create all the cool Scenes you could ever think of. Plus, get instant reliable control of your Thread-enabled devices, like Nanoleaf Essentials Bulbs and Lightstrips, with no additional hubs. This is one of our recommended smart tech gift ideas for kids and teenagers.

Buy now on Amazon from £90

43. Anker Nebula Capsule Smart Mini Projector

A compact projector for on-the-go movie nights and presentations. The advanced IntelliBright algorithms deliver a remarkably bright 100 ANSI-lumen image. Recommended for use in dimmer environments. Equipped with a powerful omnidirectional speaker, this mini projector pumps out sound all around. If you, or your loved ones, are into movies this is one of the best smart tech gift ideas.

Buy now on Amazon for £199

44. Oculus Quest 3 VR Headset

The ultimate gift for gamers and tech lovers to dive into virtual reality. The Meta Quest 3 (512GB) is a cutting-edge virtual reality headset designed for immersive gaming and interactive experiences. With a sleek design and advanced features, it offers 512GB of storage, ensuring ample space for apps, games, and media. The Quest 3 boasts improved optics, enhanced processing power, and a comfortable fit, making it an ideal choice for users looking to explore virtual worlds with high-quality visuals and responsive controls. It operates wirelessly, offering seamless VR experiences without the need for a PC or external sensors.

Buy now on Amazon for £615

45. Sonos Roam Smart Speaker

A portable, powerful speaker with voice control and incredible sound quality. Hands-free ease with Sonos Voice Control and Amazon Alexa. The Sonos Roam is a portable smart speaker that delivers rich, room-filling sound in a compact, durable design. Featuring Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, it allows seamless streaming from a variety of sources, including voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. With its lightweight build and water-resistant rating, the Roam is ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. It offers up to 10 hours of battery life, making it perfect for on-the-go listening, and can be easily paired with other Sonos devices for a whole-home sound experience. The fact that it works with Alexa and Google Assistant means it can be used as part of a smart home setup, as well as when you’re traveling, making it one of the most versatile smart tech gift ideas.

Buy Now on Amazon for £139

46. Harman Kardon Onyx Studio 8 Speaker

A high-quality Bluetooth speaker with stunning design and sound. Because Onyx Studio 8 is designed to pair audio with any Bluetooth device and music is designed to be shared, you can switch your playlists with the speaker by connecting two devices to the speaker at the same time to change your playlists at any point and keep the music going.

Buy now on Amazon for £247

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47. JBL Flip 6 Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Durable, waterproof, and delivering powerful sound for music on the go. Whether you’re hanging out at the park, relaxing on the beach or lounging by the pool, the IP67 waterproof and dust-proof design means you can bring your speaker anywhere.

Buy now on Amazon for £88

48. Bose SoundLink Revolve+ Portable Speaker

A small, portable speaker that doesn’t compromise on sound. Engineered to deliver true 360° sound for consistent, uniform coverage from a bluetooth speaker. SoundLink Revolve-plus II plays louder and deeper with up to 17 hours from a rechargeable lithium-ion batteryl. Charging is easy via the Micro-B USB port.

Buy now on Amazon for £249

49. Bose Smart Soundbar 900

A soundbar that turns any living room into a theater-like experience. Ultra Soundbar with Dolby Atmos and Voice Control is a top-of-the-line wireless speaker, surround sound system for TV and so much more. AI Dialogue Mode balances voice and surround sound for ultra-crisp vocal clarity, so you’ll never miss what your favourite characters are saying again with this surround sound speaker. With six transducers, including two custom-engineered upward firing dipole speakers, it will feel like your space is filled with sound from every direction, even overhead. Control your entertainment, daily tasks and access information using your voice with Amazon Alexa, making this one of the best smart tech gift ideas for people that already use Alexa.

Buy now on Amazon for £899

50. Razer Blade 16 Gaming Laptop

A high-performance laptop for gaming or heavy multitasking. Packed for pure performance with 1.50 gPD (Graphics Power Density), the Razer Blade 16 delivers up to 30 % more graphic power per cubic inch than any other 16” gaming laptop on the market.

Buy now on Amazon for £2699

51. Samsung Galaxy Tab S9

A tablet with high-resolution display, great for work or play. Built to withstand the elements and accompany you on your open-air adventures. The included S Pen is IP68 water and dust-resistant just like the Galaxy Tab S9 series, and has enhanced tip sensitivity for less accidental clicks. Intelligent outdoor algorithm that detects the sun’s glow and shifts to match for clear screen vision in brightly lit areas. Revved-up performance and power savings for champion-level gameplay. The graphics engine powers true-to-life reflections and shadows in 3D gaming environments.

Buy now on Amazon for £799

Smart watches – smart tech gift ideas

52. Fitbit Charge 6

A fitness tracker that monitors heart rate, sleep patterns, and more. Compatible with iOS 15 or higher & Android OS 9.0 or higher. Works with Google Maps, Google Wallet, Youtube Music Controls, Call, Text and Smartphone App Notifications. The vibrant colour touchscreen has customizable clock faces, timer and stopwatch.

Buy now on Amazon for £139

53. Garmin Fenix 7 Pro

A rugged smartwatch with advanced fitness and outdoor tracking features. with unique Power Glass and solar charging lens for extra long battery life. Your LED flashlight will guide you safely to your destination even at night. Waterproof up to 10m. Control this high-quality sports watch as you wish, either with the keys or via the touch display.

Buy now on Amazon for £550

Creative smart tech gift ideas

54. Logitech StreamCam

A high-definition webcam for gamers, streamers, and remote workers. Get superior clarity with full HD 1080p at 60 fps. Logitech StreamCam offers the ultimate streaming experience for both creator and audience with smooth motion and precise video. The webcam uses USB Type-C to ensure efficient video transfer speeds. AI-enabled facial tracking in Logitech Capture delivers accurate focus and exposure. Your content looks professional produced, with crisp, clear results. Shift into portrait mode in Logitech Capture by turning StreamCam 90° – perfect for Instagram and Facebook stories.

Buy now on Amazon for £75

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55. Logitech MX Master 3S Mouse

An ergonomically designed mouse with smart controls for productivity. Use the MX Master 3S wireless computer mouse to work on any surface, even glass. With 8000 DPI sensors and customizable sensitivity the MX Master 3S Bluetooth mouse features quiet clicks, delivering the same satisfying feeling but with 90% less click noise. Remarkable speed, precision and near silence. Program your buttons and optimise your workflow with App-specific profiles in the upgraded version of Logi Options.

Buy now on Amazon for £71

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56. Wacom Intuos Pro Drawing Tablet

A creative tool for artists and designers, perfect for digital drawing. Black, wireless graphics tablet with an active area of 8.7 x 5.8 inch – Perfect digital drawing pad with a variety of possibilities: whether professional graphic design, photo editing, illustrating or remote working. Thanks to battery-free Wacom Pro Pen 2 with 8,192 pressure levels & 60° tilt recognition, your Wacom drawing tablet ensures maximum precision & natural feeling. Compatible with macOS 10.12 & Windows 7 or later versions.

Buy now on Amazon for £315

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57. Nikon Z8 Mirrorless Camera

A professional-grade camera for photography enthusiasts. Packing a host of features into a lightweight body, the all-new Z8 gives hybrid video/stills creators astounding flexibility with which to bring their vision to life. If you’re looking for a professional camera this is one of the best you will find, hence it’s the only one to make it onto our list of smart tech gift ideas.

Buy now on Amazon for £3885

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58. Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 Instant Camera

Capture memories with a retro instant camera that prints photos immediately. Fully loaded with easy-to-use modes and controls, the super playful Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 Instant Camera is bursting with joy, creativity and colour. The mini 12 features automatic exposure and flash control, so you can simply aim and click. No messing around with settings, or remembering to turn the flash on; just joyful one-off snaps every time.

Buy now on Amazon for £114

59. Cricut Maker 3 Smart Cutting Machine

A versatile tool for creative DIY projects. Cuts 100+ materials from cardstock, vinyl and iron-on to glitter paper and bonded fabric. Compatible with smart materials for cuts up to 12 ft (3.6 m) in one go. Upload and cut your own designs or choose from the cricut design space library.

Buy now on Amazon for £228

60. Epson EcoTank ET-2860 Printer

Uses less energy and fewer consumables with high-efficiency ink tanks. Perfect for anyone looking for low-cost-printing, this A4 inkjet printer has refillable ink tanks, with one set of bottles having the equivalent of up to 72 cartridges. Additional benefits include mobile printing, Wi-Fi, copy and scan. Save up to 90% on printing costs with high yield ink bottles, the integrated ink tanks are easy to fill thanks to the specially engineered ink bottles. With no cartridges to replace, and flexible connectivity features, this is the perfect printer for anyone looking for high-quality prints at an incredibly low cost-per-page.

Buy now on Amazon for £169

These smart tech gift ideas include some of the best gifts for people that like smart home tech and energy saving gadgets. Whether you’re looking for smart tech gift ideas for him or her, one of the ideas above is bound to be a hit. If you’re looking for some bargains check out our post on smart home deals and see the full list of smart home offers on Amazon.

If you want more energy saving ideas check out our comparisons of the best smart plugs and the best smart radiator valves, or pick something from our list of top 10 energy saving ideas.

The post The Top 60 Smart Tech Gift Ideas appeared first on Smart Home Energy.

As more UK homeowners embrace solar energy, the demand for batteries for solar power storage is on the rise. Batteries enable you to make the most of your solar panels, storing excess energy generated during sunny hours for use at night or on cloudy days. Here’s a review of some of the best batteries for solar energy available in the UK, each offering unique benefits to suit different needs.

Five of the best batteries for solar power storage

1. Tesla Powerwall 2

Capacity: 13.5 kWh
Efficiency: 90% round-trip efficiency
Warranty: 10 years
Best For: High-capacity storage and smart home integration

The Tesla Powerwall 2 is one of the most popular and powerful home batteries available. With its large 13.5 kWh capacity, the Powerwall can cover nearly a full day of electricity needs for the average UK household. It also integrates seamlessly with Tesla’s app, allowing you to monitor energy usage, control charging times, and even detect power outages in real time. The Powerwall is designed to work efficiently with solar panels, and its 10-year warranty ensures reliability. Though on the premium end of the price range, it’s an ideal choice for those looking for a high-capacity, smart solution.

Find out more and get a quote via the Tesla website.

2. LG Chem RESU

Capacity: 9.8 kWh
Efficiency: 94.5%
Warranty: 10 years
Best For: Flexible capacity and compact design

The LG Chem RESU is a compact and versatile battery available in various sizes, with the 9.8 kWh version being ideal for UK homeowners. Known for its reliability and efficiency, the LG Chem RESU has a slim design that allows it to fit easily in garages or utility rooms. With its high round-trip efficiency, it ensures minimal energy loss, which translates to more stored energy for you. The RESU’s modular design is compatible with different inverters, making it easy to integrate into existing solar setups. It’s a strong contender for those looking for efficient, flexible storage in a more compact size.

Find out more and get a quote via the LG website.

3. Huawei LUNA2000

Capacity: Modular, starting at 5 kWh up to 15 kWh
Efficiency: 97%
Warranty: 10 years
Best For: Modular design for scalable storage needs

The Huawei LUNA2000 is a versatile, modular solar battery system that offers scalable storage, starting with a 5 kWh unit that can be expanded up to 15 kWh. This flexibility is ideal for those who may want to start with a smaller capacity and expand later. The LUNA2000 boasts an impressive 97% efficiency, ensuring that almost all of your generated solar power is usable. The system also integrates with Huawei’s FusionSolar app, allowing users to monitor and control their energy use. It’s a great choice for households looking for a scalable and future-proof storage solution.

Find out more and get a quote via the Huawei website.

4. Sonnen Eco

Capacity: 2.5 kWh – 15 kWh, modular
Efficiency: 89%–94%
Warranty: 10 years
Best For: Eco-conscious users and community energy sharing

Sonnen is known for its sustainability-focused design and its contribution to energy-sharing communities. The Sonnen Eco is a modular battery available in various capacities up to 15 kWh, making it suitable for households with both modest and larger storage needs. This system also allows users to participate in energy-sharing networks, meaning you can share excess energy with other Sonnen users, creating a local energy-sharing ecosystem. It’s a solid option for those looking to combine eco-friendly practices with innovative storage technology.

Find out more and get a quote via the Sonnen website.

5. Enphase Encharge 10

Capacity: 10.5 kWh
Efficiency: 96%
Warranty: 10 years
Best For: Reliable storage with microinverter compatibility

The Enphase Encharge 10 battery is designed to work seamlessly with Enphase microinverters, providing a highly reliable system that works well even in partial shading or in homes with complex roofing structures. With a 10.5 kWh capacity and 96% efficiency, this battery is well-suited to moderate-to-high household electricity needs. Enphase’s monitoring app allows for easy management of energy storage, while the Encharge 10’s durability makes it a strong choice for those focused on long-term investment in energy independence.

Find out more and get a quote via the Enphase website.

Summary – Best batteries for solar power storage

Each of these batteries brings something unique to the table. For homeowners looking for maximum capacity, the Tesla Powerwall 2 is the top choice. For those prioritizing flexibility and scalability, Huawei LUNA2000 and Sonnen Eco offer modular systems that can grow with your needs. Finally, LG Chem RESU and Enphase Encharge 10 are ideal for those looking for compact design and inverter compatibility.

Final Thoughts

Solar batteries are an investment that provides energy independence, cost savings, and environmental benefits. Choosing the right battery for your solar PV system can transform how you use and store solar energy, giving you more control over your energy and helping to reduce reliance on the grid.

If you can’t afford a solar battery check out the range of solar power diverters available, which can help maximise your savings from solar energy at a far lower price point.

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