What do I need to connect my solar panels and battery to the Hive app?
Your installers will fit a Hive Bridge – and also a Hive Hub if you don’t already have one. These are provided at no extra cost as part of your installation when you buy compatible solar equipment from Effective Home, Forster Group, Heatable or Greener Energy Group after an introduction from us. Please note that we are only responsible for the Hive products that are provided to you – and you can find our terms & conditions here.
Does Hive install my solar equipment?
No, Hive doesn’t provide or install solar panels and other equipment. Once you share your details on the Hive website, we’ll introduce you to the installers – either Effective Home, Forster Group, Heatable or Greener Energy Group, depending on where you live. They will take care of your purchase and installation. Because you’ve been introduced through Hive, you’ll get a Hive Bridge (and also a Hive Hub if you don’t have one) at no extra cost. These will connect your panels and other equipment to the Hive app. Please note that Hive is not responsible for solar installations and does not guarantee the work carried out by Effective Home, Forster Group, Heatable, Glow Green, Infinity Renewables Group, or Greener Energy Group. You are responsible for making a decision on their suitability.
How much do solar panels cost?
The average price for an 8-panel solar system is £5,610. This gives you:
- 8 solar panels (400W)
- Survey, scaffolding and installation
The average price for an 8-panel solar system. If you add a 5.32kWh battery to store any surplus energy, your total price would be £8,105.
Find our more here: How much do solar panels cost in the UK?
For both solar & battery, the price is £8,105 with Effective Home. This price is based on purchasing a 8 panel system, 400W premium panels and a 5.32kWh solar battery. Price includes full system and install. For an 8-panel system of 400W panels, the starting price is £5,610. This price is based on purchasing 8 panels from solar installer Effective Home. Price includes fitting to concrete tiles (not slate), single elevation of scaffold, with single phase electrics and no complexities. For adding 5.32kWh solar battery to an 8-panel solar system, the starting price is £2,495. This price is based on purchasing a 5.32kWh solar battery from solar installer Effective Home. Price includes full system and install.
Are solar panels worth it?
Yes, solar panels are a long-term investment that can reduce your electricity bills. You can save up to 94% in the first year of getting solar with a British Gas export tariff plus the exclusive Hive Solar Saver discount.¹ And because the electricity solar generates is zero carbon, it’s a brilliant way of making your home greener too.
Find out more here: How much money can you save with solar?
How does solar energy work?
As the sun shines onto a solar panel, its energy is absorbed by the photovoltaic (PV) cells. The energy from this makes electrical charges that move in response to an internal electrical field within the solar panel’s cell. This then causes electricity to flow, which can be used around your home.
Find out more here: What is solar energy and how does it work?
How many solar panels do I need?
It’s up to you. The more panels you have, the more electricity your system will generate. The minimum we install is four – and the maximum depends on the space available on your roof. However, our solar experts will be there throughout the process to advise you on the right system for your home and your needs.
Find our more here: How many solar panels do I need?
How long do solar panels take to install?
Average sale to install takes place in 30 days based on Hive solar & battery customers living in England. Solar panel installation itself usually only takes a day.
Find out more here in our guide to Solar panel installation
How much energy does a solar panel produce?
A solar power system is made up of several panels, with each panel generating around 400W of energy in strong sunlight. Typical systems contain around 10 panels.
Is solar right for my home?
Yes, if you live in a house with a standard (not flat) roof, then solar can be an excellent home improvement. Our free survey will give you a clear idea of how much solar power you can expect to generate.
Find out more here: What are the benefits of solar energy for your home?
What are the benefits of getting a battery installed?
Without a battery, any energy you generate needs to be used immediately by your home – or sold back to the grid. But a battery gives you the option of storing energy so it can be used later. You’ll use less energy from the grid, which will mean lower electricity bills.
How do I make money by selling my surplus energy back to the grid?
Just sign up to a Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) tariff and you can sell your surplus energy back to the grid.
Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) | British Gas
What is an inverter and why do I need one?
An inverter is a device that converts electricity from Direct Current (DC) to Alternating Current (AC), which is the kind of electricity supplied by the grid and used by appliances around your home. The inverter is usually installed in your loft.
Do I pay VAT on solar panels or battery?
Solar panels and battery installed in homes have a zero rate of VAT so you won’t need to pay VAT on them. UK government’s VAT relief on energy saving materials (ESMs) applies to installations from Feb 2024.
