Instead of wiring into a home's fuse box, BioLite's backup emergency power solution uses thin battery panels that fit behind devices and keep them running for days. It relies on two 1.5 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries, the Backup Core and the Backup Extend. Like any uninterruptible power supply, the Backup Core is constantly charged from a wall outlet as long as power is available, then switches over to keep the connected device running in the event of a power outage.
If you need more backup power, up to five Backup Extend units can be connected to one Backup Core unit to expand the total capacity to 9 kWh. No contractor or electrician is required for installation.
BioLite's system was designed as a cheaper and simpler alternative to whole-home backup power solutions that rely on a central battery or gas-powered generator to keep the whole house running during a power outage. A natural gas generator alone can cost well over $5,000, while installing a Tesla Powerwall can cost over $10,000.
The Backup Core battery panel will sell for $1,999, but BioLite will also offer a Backup Complete solution for $2,999 that combines a Core with a single Extend battery and is eligible for a 30 percent home energy tax credit. The company says the 3 kWh Backup Complete has enough capacity to power an 18 cubic foot refrigerator for up to 60 hours or a larger 26 cubic foot refrigerator for up to 30 hours, while also allowing occasional use of lights or other smaller appliances.
BioLite is bringing its backup power solution to consumers through a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter that launched today. Early backers or those who choose to make a down payment and pay the full amount later in installments will receive discounts. Although the company has been around since 2006 and makes products such as a power-generating camping stove, this will be its most expensive offering to date, and the usual caveats and risks of crowdfunded products apply.
The Backup by BioLite batteries stand 29 inches tall and weigh between 35 and 40 pounds, but they're each just 2.8 inches thick, so they can be mounted invisibly behind appliances or furniture with hardware that takes about 30 minutes to install, the company claims. But permanent installation isn't necessary, as the batteries work just as well on top of a refrigerator or under a bed, according to BioLite.