Latest news with #Burga
The Verge
15-07-2025
- Business
- The Verge
EcoFlow says its new Ocean Pro is better than Tesla's Powerwall
EcoFlow is powering up its first permanently installed whole-home energy solution for the US. The Ocean Pro system launches this week, featuring the new Ocean Pro Battery with 10kWh of storage expandable to 80kWh, and the Ocean Pro Inverter, which supports solar arrays of up to 40kWh. EcoFlow claims the system delivers 24kW of continuous power, enough to support all your appliances, including two 5-ton HVAC systems. Ocean Pro will also work with EcoFlow's new Smart Home Panel for more advanced energy monitoring and control capabilities. Whole-home energy solutions, such as Ocean Pro, are fulfilling an increasing need among homeowners for energy independence and stability in the face of the impacts of extreme weather, rising energy costs, and the instability of the power grid in some areas. EcoFlow claims that the Ocean Pro is more powerful than any other system on the market, including Tesla's Powerwall 3. Ocean Pro's support for 40kWh rooftop solar arrays is double that of the Tesla Powerwall 3, and it can handle eight batteries on one inverter, compared to only 3 for Tesla. It's also rated higher for flooding, up to 2.6 feet, and comes with a 15-year warranty, compared to the 10-year warranty offered by Tesla. EcoFlow also claims a power switching time of under 10ms. Another unique feature is that it can be installed inside. 'We have UL 9540B safety certification approval, which means it's safe enough to be installed in the house,' Felipe Burga of EcoFlow said in an interview with The Verge. To better blend in, the system comes in three finishes: aluminum, walnut, and carbon fiber. It has a robust IP67 rating against dust and rain if you do put it outside, and the LFP batteries can operate between -4 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Ocean Pro can operate in grid-tied mode to sell excess energy back to the power company, supporting 290V grid compatibility. Plus, the EcoFlow app will be able to integrate with any available Virtual Power Plant networks to help support the grid based on real-time conditions and prices. EcoFlow says this is the first system with multi-source backup power, capable of working with solar, grid, its portable power stations, and most gas generators — meaning you should be able to keep your home powered from diesel, gasoline, natural gas, or propane if everything else fails. 'It's the only system that you can run your generator and your solar system at the same time.' Generators can connect directly to the inverter via an SS2-50 Port, and it will work with any 240-volt model, says Burga. 'The inverter turns the power into DC right away, powers the loads, and charges the battery, so it becomes the voltage source. We're the only system that you can run your generator and your solar system at the same time.' EcoFlow claims homeowners can save up to 18 percent on electric bills with the real-time energy monitoring in its app and its AI-powered Oasis Home Energy Management System. The latter can predict weather, pricing, and energy consumption to optimize your production, use, and storage. The app can integrate with several smart home systems and devices, including EV chargers, smart thermostats from Ecobee and Nest, energy-monitoring products like smart plugs from Shelly and TP-Link, and any Matter-compatible device. It also works with Apple Home, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa. Ocean Pro builds on the PowerOcean series launched in Europe in 2023 and is a step up from EcoFlow's home battery backup kits. That modular solution uses its portable power products to create a battery wall and works with EcoFlow's original smart home panel. This system is a permanent installation, offering higher capacity and the ability to tie into the grid. It can work with your existing electrical panel, but if you want to add more smart/energy monitoring capabilities, you can install EcoFlow's new Smart Home Panel. The new smart panel is EcoFlow's first full replacement electrical panel. Burga says it can handle up to 40 circuits, and you can add the Smart Home Panel 2 sub-panel for additional loads. The panel allows you to customize which loads are running, and provides fine-grained energy monitoring and management. 'Our AI learns from you when you use your power and recommends how to optimize your usage and suggest changes for saving money,' explains Burga. EcoFlow isn't publishing pricing for the battery, inverter, or smart home panel. The company says that, because it's a complete system, pricing depends on the installer and the specific setup for each home. However, for an average-sized US home, you should plan on spending at least $10,000 for two batteries and the inverter, and that's before factoring in the installation costs. Preorders are now open on the EcoFlow website, where you can input your details and be connected with an installer in your area. EcoFlow is far from alone in looking to bring more robust home energy solutions to market. Schneider launched its Schneider Home system at CES last year; Savant Power, Anker Solix, Bluetti, Jackery, and Generac also offer whole-home backup solutions. However, the upfront cost of these systems remains a significant barrier for many, and time is running out to capitalize on existing tax incentives for clean energy upgrades, which expire on December 31, 2025. 'We're here for the long term. We're investing millions of dollars in the US market.' The end of tax credits and the arrival of larger tariffs on batteries and solar panels bring much uncertainty to the home energy market. But Burga says EcoFlow is fully committed to its expansion into the US. 'We're here for the long term. We're investing millions of dollars in the US market, and we actually see this as a great opportunity. The market is going to shift, and we are very committed.' He points out that there's still high demand. A recent survey commissioned by EcoFlow found that 70 percent of homeowners in California, Texas, and Florida believe having a power backup solution is important. 'People want energy independence,' says Burga. 'They don't want to depend on the monopoly that energy companies have become.' Additionally, a shift away from the current market leader, Tesla, has opened the door for new entrants. EcoFlow's survey found 24 percent of respondents said they wouldn't consider investing in Tesla's power products due to 'a desire for a less polarizing and more trustworthy solution.'
Times
06-07-2025
- Times
The best travel accessories to make holiday packing a breeze
Faithful to the fold? A strategic roller? Or a last minute thrower-inner? Whatever your approach to packing, chic travel kit can make the process a whole lot more pleasurable. From space-maxing suitcases to stylish add-ons, your luggage has never looked better. Let's start with the absolute essential: a suitcase. Here, investment in a good one cannot be underestimated. The style set is committed to Rimowa, and while silver is the colour choice of many, we're currently coveting this aluminium version with a bronze finish. A portable charger is another modern-travel must-have. Burga's fit into the palm of your hand, plus they come in a range of stylish prints to boot. • Read more fashion advice and style inspiration from our experts As for a way to make the actual packing a breeze, say hello to modular storage solutions. Cadence is the name to seek out here, of particular note the nifty honeycomb set that features pick-your-own compartments in a range of sizes and colours (which certainly beats putting suncream in a knotted supermarket carrier bag). A hand-held clothes steamer is also a godsend if you're travelling to an event such as a destination wedding — or you simply love linen (and hate ironing). For your absolute essentials though — aka your passport and money — Aspinal's luxe leather travel wallet is just the ticket. Ready for departure? You are now. • This article contains affiliate links that can earn us revenue From leftLarge duffel bag, £65, steamer, £120, tag, £95, Reusable water bottle, £35, power bank, from £78, travel wallet, £165, AirTag key ring, £40, vanity case, £475, travel container honeycomb kit, £152, check-in suitcase, £1,340,
Daily Mirror
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Best fashion and beauty buys perfect for snapping up this weekend
From Neom to Rodial, Nike and more, these are the must-haves we're coveting this week It's finally Friday and time to do what we do best: retail therapy. Each week, the Mirror's shopping team rounds up the pieces we can't stop thinking about - from fresh finds we're eyeing up to the ones already living rent-free in our makeup bags and wardrobes. This Friday (May 9), we're loving dreamy launches from Neom and Rodial, plus the recently dropped Nobody's Child x Poppy Delevingne range that's already giving us outfit envy. We're also turning to Nike for some swimsuit inspo (because yes, we're manifesting sun) and Burga's Italian-inspired phone case, which has won over shopping writer Tiffany. Not to mention Ariana Grande's latest perfume, which is tapping into the ever-popular cherry trend. Without further ado, scroll on for our hand-picked hits of the week. Tiffany's picks: Sync Beauty Matcha Lip Scrub - £20.85 Whether it is a cold blast of winds in winter or blazing heat in the summer, lip care is important all year round. Regular scrub treatments help to improve cell turnover and reveal plumper and moisturised lips. Sync Beauty, a wellness-meets-skincare brand, focuses on treating your lips with nature's finest ingredients. The Matcha Lip Scrub, £20.85, is the perfect beauty arsenal to heal cracked lips and banish dry skin. Made in Greece with natural ingredients, including olive oil, hydrogenated vegetable oil, sunflower seed oil, shea butter, rosemary leaf extract, and mango seed extract, this product locks moisture and revitalises the pout for a refreshed look. The balm-like texture with fine granules buffs away dead skin while unleashing an invigorating burst of matcha scent. Unlike other lip scrubs, it needs to be rinsed off with lukewarm water, and the results are soft and plump lips that last for days. Shoppers can also try the Tinted Lip Oil (£23.05), which glides on effortlessly for soft, extra shiny, and visibly plump lips. Burga Café del Sur Phone Case - from £45.95 May is the month that gets everyone excited about travel, and Burga's new phone case collection might persuade you to jet off to enjoy a Mediterranean holiday. The new Café del Sur transports that dreamy summer holiday feeling into an everyday gadget - our top picks are the Today's Special case features and Gourmet case. When Burga gives you a lemon-themed case like the Frizzante, take it as a sign to enjoy a fizzy lemonade while lounging by the beach. All Tough Magsafe cases are priced at £45.95, and for those looking for extra protection with shock absorption, the Elite MagSafe cases are available for £74.95. Maria Nila Head & Hair Heal Beauty Bag - £46 Plant-based haircare brand Maria Nila has launched Head & Hair Heal collections, allowing consumers to enjoy salon-quality hair nourishment at home. The limited edition Beauty Bag features three haircare products - shampoo, conditioner and hair oil - packed in a multifunctional bag with transparent mesh that resonates like a music box. Shoppers can pick one depending on their hair concerns. The True Soft (£46) is jam-packed with Argon oil, which deeply nourishes the hair shaft, reviving dry hair and reducing frizz so hair can be silky soft. The Structure Repair (£46) contains strengthening algae to soften and repair damaged hair, perfect for those who can't resist slicking their hair back daily. Shoppers with fine hair can try the Pure Volume (£46). The pro vitamin B5 works to achieve weightless volume and lift roots for a boost. Nike Swim - from £24 Nike Swim has dropped some head-turning pieces that shoppers don't want to miss out on. The festival-ready, watersport-friendly Effortless Essential Triangle Bikini (£26 at ASOS) now comes in a Baroque Brown shade, which taps perfectly into the Colour of the Year. Made with at least 75% recycled materials, it features an adjustable back and shoulder strap for the ideal fit. It is paired with tie-string bottoms (£24 at ASOS) that are as ready for the poolside. For a bright-coloured hue, this Nike Essential Bralette Bikini Top (£32 at JD Sports) in azure blue has caught many shoppers' eyes. Crafted from light, stretchy, and quick-drying fabric for a flexible fit, it features adjustable straps and a clasp-fastening to the back for easy on-and-off and is finished with classic Swoosh branding. Alternatively, Boux Avenue's Mirada crinkle balconette bikini top offers a fun option with its shiny crinkle fabric. Lauren's picks: Rodial SPF Drops - £56.25 from £75 With the sun finally making a regular appearance, I've become extra diligent with my SPF - and Rodial's SPF Drops have become a regular fixture in my routine. It's the latest by the luxury skincare brand, perhaps best known for its Dragon's Blood line, beloved by everyone from Lady Gaga to Kate Middleton. I've been applying a few drops every morning before my moisturiser and primer, knowing I'm getting broad-spectrum UV protection plus added defence against blue light and pollution (a major bonus for any fellow Londoners). The texture is a dream: lightweight, non-sticky, and sinks in beautifully without pilling. It also leaves my skin feeling hydrated and looking smooth under makeup, which is a big win. That said, I noticed a slight irritation around my under eyes when I applied it too close, so I've been more careful in that area. If you're after a more affordable alternative, the e.l.f. SKIN Suntouchable Invisistick offers SPF protection for £14 - but if you're in the mood to treat yourself, Rodial's SPF Drops really do deliver. Monpure No-Cre When I'm doing my makeup, my hair has to be out for my face - otherwise I'm left with foundation smudges on my baby hairs and mascara on various strands. But tying it back or using a hairband usually means kinks - not ideal. With that in mind, these Monpure No-Crease Clips have recently crept to the top of my wishlist. These sleek clips are designed to hold hair back without snagging, tugging or leaving those annoying ridges. Whether your hair is straight, curly, fine or thick, wet or dry, they promise a smooth grip that won't mess with your style. True, they're expensive at £15 for a pack of four, but they've earned their place in pro kits and are often spotted backstage at fashion weeks, which gives them a certain 'I know what I'm doing' energy. But if you're after a more budget-friendly alternative, Brushworks's pack of eight offers a similar crease-free hold for £5.99. Wellbeing Pod Mini+ Waterless Essential Oil Diffuser - £69 Ask anyone - friends, colleagues, family - and they'll confirm I'm a full-on Neom superfan. I first discovered the brand through a friend's candle recommendation and, in my previous role as a homes writer at Good Housekeeping and House Beautiful, my obsession only deepened. So, you can imagine my excitement when I got my hands on the brand's latest launch. The Wellbeing Pod Mini+ Diffuser is a waterless essential oil diffuser that's as chic as it is calming. The new collection comes in white, black and rose gold - a sleek, elevated update to the pastel pods released last year. I keep mine on my WFH desk, where it quietly emits refreshing bursts of scent throughout the day, making my space feel fresh, homely, and a little more zen. I had to consult a quick how-to video to get started, but it has a detailed instruction manual and everything you need to set it up. Just be sure to give it a full charge first - once powered up, you can adjust the diffusion strength, set it on a timer and trust the auto shut-off feature to kick in if it gets knocked or tilted. The battery life is impressive too, offering up to 125 hours of fragrance on a single charge. It's a little luxury I keep coming back to, and I doubt I'll ever tire of it. Note that fragrance oils aren't included, so you'll have to purchase them separately. Ariana Grande R.E.M. Cherry Eclipse Perfume - £45 Ariana Grande might be best known for her powerhouse vocals and recent role in Wicked, but now, she's almost just as popular for her perfume range. Her fragrances - from Cloud to God Is A Woman - regularly go viral and consistently rack up glowing reviews from beauty editors and shoppers alike. Now, she is hopping on the biggest scent trend of the moment: cherry. Cherry Eclipse is the latest addition to her fragrance line, blending juicy notes of black cherry jubilee with honeysuckle petals and grounding them with warm amber and musk. A swirl of marshmallow meringue gives it an extra-sweet kick—think of it as a rich dessert in fragrance form without being too sickly. It's bold, playful and totally on-brand for Ari - and for cherry scent lovers, it might be your next signature. Some other buzzed-about cherry perfumes right now include Tom Ford's Lost Cherry and Kayali's Lovefest Burning Cherry. Nobody's Child Poppy Delevingne Crochet Juno Top - £99 In exciting news for fashion fans everywhere, model Poppy Delevingne has recently joined forces with Nobody's Child for a collaboration that is packed with vintage festival must-haves, adaptable day-to-night attire, and eye-catching pieces. The new collection is reportedly inspired by Poppy's travels, treasured relationships, and unforgettable experiences. flowing dresses, pinstripe suits, and boho-inspired blouses. My top choice is this charming crochet top —perfect for the upcoming festival season (it's not long now!). Otherwise, it's ideal for any upcoming holidays as a beach cover-up or just for dinners out. It's easily styled with a pair of linen shorts or a floaty maxi skirt for a chic, effortless look when you aren't using it for seaside trips.
