How to Use Your EV Battery to Support Your Home: UK Guide to Smart Power Sharing

As electric vehicles (EVs) and home battery storage become more common in the UK, homeowners are discovering a powerful new advantage: your car battery can act as an extra energy reserve for your home.

Instead of worrying about your home battery running out and relying on expensive grid electricity, you can borrow energy from your EV during peak hours. Later, when cheaper tariffs usually kick in after 7pm, you simply recharge both your car and your home battery overnight at a lower rate.

With the right setup, this two-way energy sharing—known as vehicle-to-home (V2H)—helps you cut bills, avoid peak costs, and make your household energy system far more resilient.

What Is Two-Way Power Sharing?

Two-way (bi-directional) energy systems allow electricity to flow in both directions:

• Battery → EV: Charge your car using your home battery or solar when surplus energy is available.

• EV → Home: Feed electricity from your car battery back into your house when your home battery is depleted.

Think of it as turning your EV into a mobile power bank for your home.

Why Borrow Power From Your EV Battery?

In the UK, electricity tariffs vary throughout the day. Peak rates in the afternoon and early evening can be expensive, while cheaper “time-of-use” rates often start from 7pm or later.

By using your EV to cover your household needs when your home battery is empty, you can:

• Avoid Peak Tariffs – Reduce reliance on costly grid electricity.

• Maximise Cheap Night Rates – Recharge both home and EV batteries during off-peak hours.

• Improve Energy Security – Keep your home running even when solar or stored energy runs low.

Smart Ways to Manage EV-to-Home Energy Flow

1. Set Energy Priorities

Most smart inverters allow you to choose where energy goes first. By prioritising your home, your EV acts as backup rather than the main power source.

2. Use Time-of-Use Scheduling

Plan your recharging around your supplier’s tariff. For example, discharge your EV into your home during expensive hours, then recharge both batteries overnight on a cheaper tariff.

3. Monitor With Apps

Modern EVs and home energy systems come with apps that track real-time energy flow. You’ll see exactly how much is borrowed from your car and when it’s best to top everything up.

Future of EV-to-Home Energy in the UK

The idea of vehicle-to-home charging is growing quickly in the UK energy market. In the near future, we can expect:

• Smarter tariffs designed for households with EVs and home batteries.

• Dynamic balancing systems that automatically shift energy between home, EV, and grid for maximum savings.

• Greater resilience, turning every EV into a reliable backup power source.

Bottom Line

Home energy management is no longer just about storing solar in a battery—it’s about using your EV as part of your energy strategy. By borrowing from your car battery when your home battery is depleted, and recharging both during cheaper night tariffs, you can save money, reduce grid reliance, and future-proof your household energy system.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About EV-to-Home Power in the UK

Can I use my EV battery to power my home in the UK?

Yes. If you have a vehicle and charger that support vehicle-to-home (V2H) technology, you can power your home using your EV. In areas like Surrey, Hampshire, and Berkshire, more homeowners are installing compatible chargers to take advantage of cheaper tariffs and energy independence.

Is vehicle-to-home energy worth it in the South East?

Absolutely. Households in Surrey, Hampshire, and Berkshire can see real savings by using V2H. Instead of paying high peak rates, you can borrow from your EV battery when your home battery is empty, then recharge both on cheaper night tariffs.

Will using my EV to power my home damage the battery?

No—modern EVs are designed for bi-directional charging. The battery management systems in most compatible cars carefully control charging and discharging to minimise wear, so it’s safe for both your EV and your home setup.

What UK energy tariffs work best for EV-to-home charging?

Time-of-use tariffs such as Octopus Go, OVO Anytime, or other off-peak EV tariffs are ideal. Many homeowners in Surrey, Hampshire, and Berkshire already use these to recharge both their EV and home battery at night when electricity rates are lowest.

Can I get vehicle-to-home installed in Surrey, Hampshire, or Berkshire?

Yes. Local installers in these counties are increasingly offering V2H-compatible systems, including solar integration, home battery storage, and bi-directional EV chargers. Choosing a specialist in your area ensures your system is set up correctly and optimised for UK tariffs.

Solar Panels in the UK: Top 10 FAQs Answered

Are you considering solar panels for your home or business in the UK? Solar energy is one of the fastest-growing renewable sources, offering long-term savings and a smaller carbon footprint. But it’s normal to have questions before making the investment. We’ve compiled the top 10 FAQs about solar panels in the UK to help you make an informed decision.

1. How much do solar panels cost in the UK?

The cost of solar panel installation varies depending on system size, type, and quality. For most UK homes, a standard domestic system costs between £4,000 and £8,000. While this might seem high upfront, government incentives and energy savings often offset the cost over time. Find out more

2. How much can I save on my electricity bills?

Savings depend on your household energy usage, roof orientation, and the size of your system. On average, UK households can save around £200–£400 per year. If you use a lot of electricity during the day when your panels are producing energy, savings can be even higher.

3. Do solar panels work in the UK’s cloudy weather?

Yes! Modern solar panels are designed to work efficiently even in low-light conditions. While they generate less electricity on cloudy days compared to sunny days, they still produce enough energy to make a noticeable difference to your bills.

4. How long do solar panels last?

Panels generally have a 25-year performance guarantee but can continue producing energy for 30+ years with minimal maintenance.

5. Do I need planning permission?

Most domestic installations don’t require planning permission. Exceptions include listed buildings, conservation areas, and some flat roofs. Check with your local council.

6. Can I sell excess electricity back to the grid?

Through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), you can sell surplus electricity and earn extra income. It’s a great way to maximize the financial benefits of solar.

7. Will solar panels increase my home’s value?

Yes. Energy-efficient homes are more attractive to buyers. Solar panels can increase property value while reducing ongoing energy costs.

8. What maintenance do solar panels need?

Minimal maintenance is required. Panels are weather-resistant and only need occasional cleaning and inspection.

9. Are solar panels suitable for all roof types?

Pitched roofs, especially south-facing, are ideal. Flat or partially shaded roofs may require angled mounts or microinverters. A professional assessment ensures optimal performance.

10. How long to recoup installation costs?

UK homeowners usually recoup costs in 6–12 years. After this, electricity is effectively free, and you continue enjoying savings for decades. Find out about ROI here.

Final Thoughts

Switching to solar panels is a smart investment for both your wallet and the environment. With lower installation costs, government incentives, and the ability to sell excess electricity, solar energy has never been more accessible.

Myenergi: The Smart, Integrated Green Solution for Families

For many families, the journey towards a greener lifestyle can feel overwhelming. Do you start with solar? A home battery? An EV charger? Or maybe a way to cut down on heating costs? With Myenergi, you don’t have to choose. Their smart, integrated range of solutions – including zappi glo, libbi, eddi, and harvi – offers a one-stop shop for families who want to save money, reduce carbon emissions, and take control of their energy future.

An Integrated Ecosystem Designed for Families

What makes Myenergi stand out is the way all its products work together seamlessly. Instead of juggling different systems, you can build a connected green energy ecosystem at your own pace:

• zappi glo – The latest generation of Myenergi’s EV charger. More than just a plug, it allows you to charge your electric vehicle using renewable energy from your solar panels or wind turbine, as well as grid electricity. With stylish design and advanced smart charging modes, zappi glo makes EV ownership practical and eco-friendly.

• eddi – A power diverter that sends surplus renewable energy into your hot water tank or heating system. Instead of exporting unused energy to the grid, you use it in your own home – reducing bills and boosting self-sufficiency.

• libbi – Myenergi’s smart home battery. Store your renewable energy for when you need it most, helping to balance day and night usage while protecting your home from rising energy costs.

• harvi – A clever wireless energy sensor that monitors your generation and usage. It communicates with your other Myenergi devices without the need for extra cabling, keeping installation simple and your home uncluttered.

Together, these products create a flexible, future-proof solution that grows with your family’s needs.

Control Everything from the Myenergi App

At the heart of the Myenergi ecosystem is the Myenergi app. With a single tap, you can:

• Track energy generation, storage, and usage in real time.

• Control when your EV charges, your water heats, or your battery discharges.

• Set schedules and optimise for savings, convenience, or sustainability.

• Manage your entire green home system – all from your smartphone.

This smart technology means your family doesn’t just go green – you go smart green.

Why Families Love Myenergi

One-stop solution – No need to piece together different systems from multiple providers.

1. Flexible entry point – Start with a single product, like zappi glo, and expand as your energy journey evolves.

2. Sustainable savings – Make the most of your self-generated energy and cut down on rising utility bills.

3. Future-proof – With continuous software updates and integrated design, your system gets smarter over time.

Why Choose UKGEI as Your Installer

As a certified Myenergi installer, UKGEI helps families across the UK take their first steps toward a greener lifestyle. When you choose us, you’ll get:

• Expert guidance on the right solutions for your home.

• Professional, hassle-free installation.

• Ongoing support to make sure your Myenergi system works exactly as it should.

With UKGEI and Myenergi, families can enjoy a seamless path to sustainable living – from charging your car to heating your home, all controlled in one place.

Myenergi FAQs

Do I need solar panels to use zappi glo?

No – zappi glo can charge your car directly from the grid, but it really shines when connected to solar or wind generation, allowing you to power your EV with clean, free energy.

Can eddi work without libbi?

Yes – eddi can operate on its own, diverting excess solar or wind energy into your hot water system. However, when combined with libbi, you can store even more energy for use later, giving you greater flexibility.

What does harvi do?

Harvi is a wireless energy sensor that measures generation and usage, sending this information to your Myenergi devices. It removes the need for extra cabling, making installations simpler and tidier.

Is libbi just for homes with solar panels?

No – while libbi is designed to store renewable energy, it can also store grid electricity. This allows you to charge it during off-peak times and use the stored power when prices are higher.

Can I start with one Myenergi product and add more later?

Absolutely – the system is modular. Many families start with zappi glo for EV charging, then expand to include eddi, libbi, and harvi as their green journey evolves.

Is everything controlled by the app?

Yes – the Myenergi app brings all your devices together. From one simple interface, you can see what’s happening in real time, control settings, and optimise for cost savings or sustainability.

Official MyEnergi Product Champion – Now Installing Zappi, Glo, Libbi & Eddi in Surrey, Hampshire & Berkshire!

I'm proud to share some exciting news – I’ve been officially recognised by MyEnergi, the innovative UK manufacturer behind the award-winning Zappi EV charger, as one of their Product Champions.

This prestigious recognition highlights my dedication to delivering high-quality installations, expert knowledge, and exceptional customer service when it comes to installing MyEnergi products – including:

✅ Zappi – Smart EV charger for eco-conscious drivers
✅ Libbi – Home battery storage system for energy independence
✅ Eddi – Solar power diverter for water and space heating
✅ Glo – Advanced home energy monitoring device
✅ MyEnergi App – Seamless control of your home energy ecosystem

Trusted MyEnergi Installer for Surrey, Hampshire & Berkshire

Being a MyEnergi Product Champion means I’m trusted to provide professional, reliable, and efficient installations throughout:

• Surrey

• Hampshire

• Berkshire

Whether you're an EV owner looking for a Zappi charger installation, a homeowner seeking to maximise solar energy with Eddi and Libbi, or just starting your green energy journey, I'm here to help.

Why Choose a Recognised MyEnergi Installer?

• Fully trained and experienced in all MyEnergi devices

• Helping customers reduce their carbon footprint

• Expert setup of the MyEnergi app for full system control

• Tailored solutions for your home energy needs

Get in touch today to arrange your MyEnergi installation and discover how you can take full control of your energy with the latest in green technology.

Serving homeowners across Surrey, Hampshire, and Berkshire