New Lower-Power Stove Offers Plug-and-Play Induction

This induction model runs on half as much energy and operates using a basic power plug.

A California startup, Copper, has developed the appliance industry's first four-burner induction stove and oven capable of functioning on 120-volt electric power. The stove, named "Charlie," uses a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that can operate the unit for several hours between charges or continuously while plugged in. The appliance will also charge up when electrical rates are low, allowing people to cook without incurring peak-rate electrical charges.

According to Copper CEO Sam Calisch, Charlie offers several environmental benefits. An electric stove does not release pollutants into the air like natural gas-powered units, there is no heat lost during cooking, and some components are made from recycled materials. There are other phases, such as no need for a homeowner to rewire a house with one or more 220-volt outlets when switching from gas to electric. 

On the flip side, Copper stoves aren't cheap: The base model starts at %6,000. Tax incentives, if available, can reduce that price by about 30 percent. The company expects 1,000 units to be in homes by mid 2025.