BoxPower

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Overview

BoxPower is a California-based company that provides solar-powered microgrid solutions aimed at delivering clean, reliable, and affordable energy, especially in rural and underserved areas. Founded in 2016, the company’s primary focus is on the deployment of modular solar systems that incorporate battery storage and optional backup generators. BoxPower was co-founded by Angelo Campus and Anderson Barkow, who initially started the company following a solar research project at Princeton University. The company has raised approximately $12.75 million through various funding rounds, with notable investors including Climate Capital and Southwire. BoxPower is currently based in Grass Valley, California.

Recent Developments

  • March 2025: BoxPower announced a strategic partnership with Pearce Services to enhance the reliability and performance of its microgrid systems across North America. This agreement aims to strengthen BoxPower’s operational standards and meet the growing demand for resilient, reliable energy solutions.
  • February 2025: BoxPower expanded its operations to Canada through a collaboration with ATCO, a Canadian energy company. This expansion involves setting up an off-grid solar power plant in Edmonton, Alberta.
  • November 2024: Southwire, a major manufacturer of cable and wire, invested in BoxPower. This investment will help strengthen Southwire's position in the microgrid market and support BoxPower's efforts in wildfire mitigation and emissions reduction.
  • April 2024: The California Energy Commission awarded BoxPower a grant through the EPIC program to advance the production of its SolarContainer microgrid solutions. The funding aims to improve the manufacturing capacity and reduce costs of microgrid deployment.
  • March 2024: BoxPower secured a credit facility from VerisFi Capital and Energy Capital Partners to expand its remote microgrid portfolio. This financial boost will help the company develop utility-level service grids that replace traditional power distribution lines.

Company Information

AttributeInformation
Founding Date2016
HeadquartersGrass Valley, California, USA
FoundersAngelo Campus, Anderson Barkow
Revenue~$19.3 million (latest estimate)
Key InvestorsSouthwire, Climate Capital, Aligned Climate Capital
IndustryRenewable Energy, Microgrids
Number of EmployeesApproximately 47

Early History

BoxPower was conceptualized from research on microgrid technologies at Princeton University, led by founder Angelo Campus. The company began as an academic initiative aiming to address power reliability in remote areas, graduating to a commercial enterprise in 2016. The initial projects focused on rapid deployment of microgrids for disaster relief, particularly in regions like Puerto Rico following Hurricane Maria. The innovative approach involved containerized solar power units that could be quickly assembled on-site without specialized equipment.

Company Profile and Achievements

BoxPower operates primarily by developing and deploying microgrid systems that combine solar generation, battery storage, and optional backup generators. This modular approach, often configured within shipping containers, allows for rapid deployment and scalability. Some key milestones include:

  • Provided power solutions for remote regions in Alaska and Puerto Rico.
  • Completed over 40 successful deployments with utilities like PG&E.
  • Engaged in a significant number of projects working with indigenous communities to enhance energy independence.
  • In 2018, BoxPower raised its first series of funding led by Aligned Climate Capital.
  • Developed the “SolarContainer,” a prefabricated microgrid unit designed for easy transport and installation.

Current Operations and Market Position

BoxPower is positioned as a leading innovator in the microgrid technology sector, particularly for rural electrification and disaster recovery. The company's microgrid systems offer a sustainable alternative to traditional diesel generators. As of 2025, they have completed over 70 projects within North America. BoxPower’s competitive edge lies in the modular design of its products, which facilitates quick installation and minimizes downtime. Their recent partnerships and investments aim to expand their reach into new markets, supporting a transition to decentralized and resilient energy systems.

Conclusion

BoxPower stands as a pivotal player in the transition towards decentralized energy systems, offering significant advancements in the reliability and sustainability of power solutions for remote and underserved areas. Their strategic collaborations, technological innovations, and focus on sustainability underscore a robust future trajectory in the renewable energy sector. With continued investments and an expanding portfolio, BoxPower is well-positioned to meet the growing global demand for resilient, sustainable energy infrastructures.

References

  1. BoxPower Website
  2. PV Magazine USA
  3. YubaNet News
  4. ECP Group Press Release
  5. Southwire Press Release
  6. SolarQuarter News