BioLite Unveils Innovative Home Backup Power Solution
BioLite, known for its outdoor energy products, has introduced a groundbreaking home backup power solution called Backup. This new system features thin battery panels designed to fit discreetly behind appliances, offering a unique approach to home energy storage.
The core of the Backup system consists of two 1.5kWh lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries: the Backup Core and Backup Extend. The Backup Core maintains its charge from a standard wall outlet and automatically switches to battery power during outages, ensuring uninterrupted power supply to connected devices.
One of the system’s key features is its expandability. Users can connect up to five Backup Extend units to a single Backup Core, allowing for a total capacity of up to 9kWh. Notably, the installation process does not require a contractor or electrician, making it accessible to a wider range of homeowners.
BioLite positions Backup as a cost-effective alternative to whole-home backup solutions. Compared to natural gas generators and Tesla Powerwall installations, which can be significantly more expensive, Backup offers a more affordable option for those seeking reliable power backup.
The Backup Core battery panel is priced at $1,999, while the Backup Complete solution, which includes both the Core and Extend units, is available for $2,999. Consumers may also benefit from a 30 percent home energy tax credit, further enhancing the system’s value proposition. To put its capacity into perspective, the 3kWh Backup Complete can power an 18 cubic foot refrigerator for up to 60 hours or a 26 cubic foot refrigerator for up to 30 hours.
BioLite is launching Backup through a Kickstarter campaign starting today. Early backers can take advantage of discounts and installment plan options. However, potential buyers should be aware of the usual risks associated with crowdfunding campaigns.
The Backup batteries measure 29 inches tall, weigh between 35-40 lbs, and are only 2.8 inches thick. This slim profile allows for versatile placement options, including mounting behind appliances or furniture. The installation process takes approximately 30 minutes using the provided hardware. For those preferring a non-permanent solution, the batteries can also be placed atop a refrigerator or under a bed.
As BioLite’s most expensive offering to date, Backup represents a significant step into the home energy market for the company. With its innovative design and accessible approach to backup power, BioLite aims to provide homeowners with a practical solution for energy security in an increasingly unpredictable power landscape.