EcoFlow’s Stream home batteries arrive to power the UK’s plug-in solar boom — but installation still isn’t DIY

EcoFlow has announced new home batteries in the UK The Stream units can hoook up to a variety of solar configurations Early bird prices are now available if you preorder Portable power specialist EcoFlow has launched its next-generation Stream Series of home batteries in the UK, meaning that users can keep more of the solar energy they're generating — though the battery still needs to be installed by a qualified electrician.

The 5kWh home battery is rated to support up to 5,000W of solar input, and 3,000W of electricity output.

That's enough to run appliances like washing machines and dishwashers, and if you need more energy storage, you can add extra units in as needed.

Despite those power ratings, the Stream home batteries are compact: they weigh just 45 kilograms (under 100 pounds), and are the size of an airplane cabin bag.

That makes them easy to position in garages, utility rooms, or anywhere else.

"The transition to smarter home energy shouldn't be reserved for early adopters," said EcoFlow's Justin Tilley.

"Homeowners want to get more from their solar investment, but they also want technology that's simple to understand, easy to integrate into their home and built to grow with them." Specs and pricing The batteries are big enough to power appliances (Image credit: EcoFlow) With plug-in solar kits legally available in the UK from August 27 , we're on the cusp of a home energy revolution in the country.

But the current downside of plug-in solar is that, without a battery installed, you'll lose any electricity you don't immediately use.

The EcoFlow Stream series solves that problem, even if the installation isn't as plug-and-play as the panels are — although there are hopes that plug-in batteries could get the legal green light next .

Some specs of note from these batteries: they have a 15-year lifespan, are good for 10,000 charging cycles, offer an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance (so they're pretty weatherproof), and come with a 10-year warranty.

The batteries can be controlled by a companion app that gives you a full set of management and diagnostic tools, and they work as uninterruptible power supply (UPS) units as well, taking over if the power grid electricity gets cut.

You can preorder a EcoFlow Stream home battery today from the EcoFlow website , with early bird prices starting at £1,499.

Those discounted prices will last until October 7, when the units are expected to start shipping.