Direct Energy will soon launch "Connect to Control 24" retail electric and natural gas plans that include the smart home Hive Welcome Home Starter Plan

The Hive Welcome Home Starter Plan will include a Hive Hub, two Hive Active Lights, one Hive Active Plug, and two Hive Window or Door Sensors, and is to be included with a qualifying 24-month electricity and/or natural gas plan. The Hive Welcome Home Starter Plan enables users to look after their lighting and appliances from their smartphone.

Hive is Centrica's smart home brand

Connected Home is a key area for growth for parent company Centrica plc, with a £500m investment to take the Hive brand multi-market.

Earlier this year, Direct Energy announced its Connect to Comfort 24 Plan, which include the Hive Heating and Cooling Plan and Hive smart thermostat.