Solar energy has long been the domain of homeowners—something that needsa roof, permits, and a significant upfront cost. But no more. EcoFlow’s new STREAM Series, now in Utah, introduces plug-and-play solar power to renters, condo owners, and anyone lacking access to conventional rooftop systems.
Why Plug-and-PlaySolar Is a Game Changer
So far, solar power in the United States has been largely out of the question for apartment dwellers or those who live in multi-unit buildings. The systems were too complicated, too costly, or just plain prohibited under local ordinances. Plug-and-play solar—also referred to as “balcony solar”—provides an easy fix: panels that you place on a balcony, patio, or even in a backyard, and plug into a regular wall outlet. It’s an easy way to reduce your energy costs and have a little more control over your electricity consumption.
Get acquainted with the STREAM Series: Easy, Scalable, and Intelligent.
EcoFlow’s STREAM Series is made for everyday people—no tools, no electricians, no roof needed. The productfamily consists of two primary elements: the STREAM Ultra and the STREAM Microinverter.
- STREAM Ultra is a 1.92 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery with a built-in grid-tied microinverter. It accommodates a maximum of 2,000W of solar input and can send as much as 1,200W of electricity back into your house through a common outlet. Excess energy is stored inside the battery to use during peak rates or power outages. With a long-lasting NEMA 4 weather rating and 6,000 charge cycles, it’s designed to last.
- STREAM Microinverter provides a more trim installation for those who don’t require storage. It accepts up to 1,200W of solar input and outputs it directly as usable power, once again through a standard AC outlet.
The system is scalable and ready to be modular. Consumers can begin with one or build, integrating several STREAM Ultra units for as much as 11.52 kWh of storage and 3,200 W of solar input. That sort of flexibility is perfect for small apartments and homes that are looking for backup power in the event of an emergency.
Why Utah? AFirst in U.S. Solar Regulation
Unlike Europe—where plug-in solar has already been embraced by millions—most U.S. states have prohibitive codes that keep direct solar-to-outlet systems out. But Utah is bucking the trend. Thanks to the new law (HB 340), plug-and-play solar is now permitted there, making it the springboard for EcoFlow’s U.S. expansion. The legislation establishes specific safety and certification standards, opening thedoorfor this innovative new way of doing clean energy.
Built-In Safety for Peace of Mind
One of the major issues with plug-in solar is circuit safety—namely, whether wiring in a home is able to accommodate extra loads. EcoFlow has tackled this with live monitoring of energy and internal protection that automatically limits output to remain within safe parameters. Both the Ultra and Microinverter are electrical code compliant and are designed to work safely on standard 15-amp domestic household circuits.
Smarter Energy with the EcoFlow OASIS Platform
The STREAM Series doesn’t only produce power—it enables you to make the most of it. EcoFlow’s OASIS platform, accessed through an app, monitors energy consumptionin real time, optimizes charging to save you money on peak hours, and provides clean reports and insights. It also features a 24/7 multilingual AI assistant that can answer queries, give you tips, and walk you through setup or troubleshooting.
Pricing and What’s Next
The STREAM Series is now up for preorder in Utah with early bird prices until July 31:
- STREAM Ultra: $1,199 (early bird) / $1,899 (standard)
- STREAM Microinverter: $299 (early bird) / $599 (standard)
- Bundle: $1,459 (early bird) / $2,399 (standard)
Following successful demand in Europe with more than 120,000 units sold, EcoFlow is wagering that Americans are ready for a more affordable way to harness solar power—one that does not necessitate homeownership or extensive installation.
If Utah is a portent, plug-and-play solar could be the next giant leap in democratizing clean power, offering renters and city dwellers a real shot at energizing homes sustainably by plugging into a wall.
