Induction Cooktops & Storage
CanaryMedia: “In this Brooklyn warehouse, stoves are turned into batteries,” by Maria Gallucci.
“Startup Electra is outfitting induction stoves with slender batteries that enable the electric appliances to be plugged into a standard outlet—and [support] the grid.” Unlike many induction stoves on the market, Electra’s model can plug into a standard 120-volt outlet and draw power to charge a 5-kWh battery. “Induction cooktop heats pans directly using electromagnetism, while the oven cooks food using [conventional] electric-resistance elements.”
Customers can choose to use their batteries for ancillary grid storage. “With its software partners, Electra directs the batteries to charge up during the most beneficial times—for example, when solar power production is most abundant—and to discharge power during the grid’s peak demand periods.”
‘Induction cooks faster and more efficiently than old-school gas + electric appliances, and, unlike gas stoves, it doesn’t release pollutants that can harm people’s health.’ Although federal rebates for electrification expired abruptly under the Trump administration, some states + utilities still offer incentives to help defray the upfront cost of going electric.
‘Electra’s induction stove costs $3,999, more than triple the price of Wirecutter’s highest-rated electric range—although because that model uses 240 volts, this might require upgrading a home’s electrical panel, rewiring the kitchen, or hiring electricians to hook it up.’ Electra says its unit avoids those added costs and, thanks to its battery, can even operate for several meals in a blackout. “Early data show that people who cook frequently are still using only about a fifth of the battery’s power per day, which bodes well for the lithium iron phosphate [LFP] device’s longevity.”
“The company is also developing a pilot program with the city of Burbank, California, to help residents electrify their kitchens.” And it’s partnering with a property owner closer to home, in the Bronx, to equip an 80-unit apartment building with its stoves.
It’s a startup + early mover, which tend to have hiccups. I love the concept, + I like the startup. Time will tell.
