Renogy Lycan Powerbox can provide electricity during a storm such as Hurricane Irma
The United States has been heavily under attack from Mother Nature lately. Hurricane Harvey caused horrific devastation in Texas, and now Irma is headed for Florida. During these disasters, it is not uncommon to lose electricity. This can be a huge pain point, as people need devices such as cell phones to call for help -- a device with a depleted battery is pretty much useless. Not to mention, some folks have medication that requires refrigeration, so a loss of power could actually lead to death or sickness.
Thankfully, companies sell generators to keep the power flowing during an electricity outage. For prolonged outages, there are even models with solar charging capabilities. Today, a company called Renogy unveils a heavy-duty battery backup generator that can be charged using the sun. Impressively, the company claims it can keep a refrigerator running for about 8 hours! It is even on wheels so it can be easily transported. The fact that it has so many connection types, including USB Type-A , should make it indispensable during a hurricane or simply on a family camping trip.
"The ideal power source for camping, tailgating or survivalist excursions, the Lycan Powerbox features a rugged exterior for meeting unexpected situations head on with heavy-duty wheels for effortless movement, and extended handles to easily maneuver it on any setting. Unlike conventional gas generators that use motors and discharges fumes, the Lycan is 100-percent battery powered, making it safe to use indoors during emergencies or as a way to reduce energy related expenses," says Renogy.
The company also says, "The Lycan Powerbox has a maximum solar input of 300 watts and can be fully charged in 4 hours using 3 solar panels. It can also be charged through wall outlets and by using car charging inputs. Its built-in USB and AC/DC outputs are compatible with a full range of devices and appliances, allowing consumers to simultaneously charge and power multiple items including smartphones, TVs, laptops, microwaves, refrigerators, cameras, lamps, medical equipment, and more."
Renogy shares the following specifications.
Battery Type |
Lithium Iron Phosphate |
Battery (Ah/Wh) |
24Ah / 1075Wh |
Battery Life |
2000 cycles
5-7 year lifespan (Heavy Use) 100 percent discharge ability |
Internals |
10 Amp MPPT -- 150-volt solar input
1200 Watt Pure Sine Wave Inverter |
Outputs |
3 x 12V DC
4 x 110V AC 4 x 2.4 amp USB port 1 x 12.5 amp 12V DC port |
Charge Time |
100 Watt Solar -- 12 hours (one solar panel)
200 Watt Solar -- 6 hours (two solar panels) 300 Watt Solar -- 4 hours (three solar panels) AC input -- 12 hours Car Charging -- 24 hours |
Sample Usage Times |
LED Flat Screen TV -- approx. 11 hours
Smartphone -- approx. 120 charges (USB port) Radio -- approx. 24 hours Oven -- approx. 58 minutes of use Refrigerator -- approx. 8 hours of use |
Display |
LCD |
Weight |
55 lbs. |
Dimension (LxWxH) |
14.5 x 13.4 x 11.8 inches |
Certifications/ Standards |
FCC UN38.3 |
Starting at $1,800 (depending on configuration), the Renogy Lycan Powerbox is not inexpensive. With that said, if it meets your needs and keeps you safer during a tragedy, it is hard to argue with the price. If you simply can't afford it up front, the company is also offering a monthly payment plan.