PowerBox™ is a ready-to-go off-grid power system that has everything you need to provide a remote power source is neatly fitted into a single, pallet-sized box. 

Designed for operating low power AC or DC equipment, it is easy to transport and quick to deploy. In less than an hour, it is now possible to set up a complete solar-wind hybrid power supply, with the option of an autostart backup generator, or even a methanol fuel cell.

PowerBox™ is one of those products that has so many possible uses that it is impossible to write a comprehensive list. However, some applications include:

• telemetry and environmental monitoring
• remote weather monitoring (LIDAR)
• rural broadband and radio comms
• CCTV and security cameras
• Disaster relief - laptop/phone charging, lighting

Flexible & Modular

At Leading Edge, we recognise that not all applications are the same, so we have designed PowerBox to be as flexible as possible. We have a number of standard models and options - both DC and AC - and are happy to put together a bespoke design for your specific needs.  Contact us on [email protected] and our off-grid experts will be on hand to help.

The standard models vary depending on which of our British-made wind turbines you choose, which inverter size, as well as whether or not a control system is required. In addition to our main models, we can also supply add-on PowerBoxes, with additional batteries, solar panels or wind turbines, that simply plug into the main hub to extend storage capacity or power production. 

Rugged Enclosure

The PowerBox™ is pallet-sized, so it can be delivered on a single pallet, or even in the back of a pickup, reducing transport costs and making it possible to deploy in remote areas. Made from galvanised steel, PowerBox™ is designed to be long-lasting and durable in some of the world’s harshest conditions. 

Integrated Solar

The unique fold-away design of the PowerBox™ solar panels means that they are protected during transport and can be setup in seconds, as well as being set at the correct angle for the sun. Using two 160W ultra-high-efficiency solar panels made from Sunpower cells, PowerBox™ can generate over 1.5kWh a day in summer from solar alone. 

Wind-Solar Hybrid

Unlike other “complete” power solutions, PowerBox™ comes with its own turbine and modular mast, neatly stored in the box itself. Unlike the sun, wind is a 24-hour a day power source, so a hybrid wind-solar power system is significantly more productive than just solar or wind alone. In general, when there is more sun, there is less wind and vice versa.

Having both wind and solar, PowerBox™ is a year-round power source. Fitted as standard with either our LE-300 or LE-600 turbine, wind power accounts for between 0.5kWh and 1.5kWh of power a day. For lower wind sites, we will fit the LE-600 turbine, but for high wind sites, we will fit the LE-300 turbine - please contact us for assistance in choosing your turbine if you are unsure.

Stored Power

Producing power is only one half of the equation and storing that power is the other. As well as storing power to be used, the battery bank is also the “reserve”. In many parts of the world, there will be days where there is neither much sun or wind. On these days, we must rely on the reserve power to keep equipment running. PowerBox™ is fitted with a bank of industrial grade deep-cycle AGM (Absorbent Glass Matting) batteries that are designed to give many years’ service, even when they are heavily used.

AGM batteries do not contain any free-liquid electrolyte and can even be used upside down, meaning that they are much more suited to the rigours of transport. As standard, PowerBox™ is fitted with six 120Ah batteries, storing a total of 8.64kWh of energy.

AC, DC and Backup

The standard PowerBox™ has both AC and DC voltages available, but a DC only version is also available. Based on the renowned inverter-chargers from Victron Energy, PowerBox™ can supply 230V from 500W to 3000W (larger options are available on request). In addition to converting power from the DC battery bank to AC, the PowerBox™ can also be connected to a generator or mains power supply.

When connected, PowerBox™ automatically switches away from the batteries and feeds AC power directly to the electrical equipment being used. This changeover happens at in 12ms, which is fast enough to keep even sensitive electronics continuously powered. As well as feeding power from the generator or mains directly, PowerBox™ then uses the surplus power to boost charge the battery bank simultaneously.

If a backup generator with an autostart function is available, PowerBox™ can be set up to automatically start/stop the generator depending on the battery state of charge. The autostart function can also be set to activate the generator when the electrical load exceeds the capacity of the onboard inverter. In these instances, PowerBox™ combines both power sources (both generator feed and battery bank) to maximise efficiency.

Methanol Fuel Cell

In some instances, where the the power supply is absolutely crucial, PowerBox™ can be fitted with a 45W or 110W Efoy methanol fuel cell. Please contact us for more information on this advanced option.

Remote Control & Monitoring

The full specification PowerBox™ is fitted with the innovative Victron Cerbo GX, which provides full control over the system. When connected to the internet via the built-in Ethernet port, or via the optional WiFi receiver or 3G/4G router, live data is transmitted to Victron's proprietary VRM Portal.

Logging in to the VRM Portal from your laptop or the mobile app, means that you can see exactly how your PowerBox™ is performing (live and historical), receive alarm signals  by email and even change system settings remotely.

Sea and Air Freight Friendly

VRLA AGM batteries in the PowerBox comply with IATA Special Provisions A48 and A67 and are non-restricted goods. They are securely packaged, protected from short circuits and isolated with external switch.  Each battery is strapped down, all batteries are in an internal case within an external protective metal case.