A new smart home gadget has been launched that could help UK households reduce their energy bills by up to 20%, according to energy supplier British Gas. The device, called the Hive Thermostat, learns a household's heating patterns and automatically adjusts temperatures to avoid wasted energy.
How the Hive Thermostat Works
The Hive Thermostat uses sensors and algorithms to monitor when a home is occupied, and then schedules heating only when needed. It can be controlled remotely via a smartphone app, allowing users to turn heating on or off from anywhere. The device also provides real-time energy usage data, helping homeowners identify areas where they can cut consumption.
According to British Gas, the average household could save around £150 a year on energy bills by using the device. The thermostat is priced at £249, with installation costs starting from £99. It is compatible with most gas and electric heating systems, and can be integrated with other smart home devices such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
Impact on Energy Bills
The launch comes as UK households face rising energy costs, with the energy price cap increasing by 54% in April 2022. The Hive Thermostat is part of a wider trend towards smart home technology aimed at improving energy efficiency. British Gas claims that the device could pay for itself within two years through savings on energy bills.
Industry experts have welcomed the move, noting that smart thermostats can help reduce carbon emissions by lowering overall energy consumption. However, some have cautioned that the actual savings depend on individual usage patterns and the size of the home.
Availability and Future Plans
The Hive Thermostat is now available to purchase directly from British Gas and through major retailers such as Currys and John Lewis. British Gas has also announced plans to launch a new range of smart home products later this year, including smart plugs and smart lighting systems, as part of its commitment to helping customers become more energy efficient.
The company has stated that it aims to install 1 million smart thermostats in UK homes by 2025, as part of its broader sustainability strategy. British Gas has also partnered with the UK government's Energy Company Obligation scheme, which provides free or discounted energy-saving measures to eligible households.
