Outer Spaces unveils solar pavilion with battery storage built into the deck - Energy and climate tech

Outer Spaces has introduced the OS1, a backyard pavilion that integrates solar generation and horizontally mounted LFP battery modules beneath its decking. The company has raised $8 million to develop the system, which is planned for launch in 2027.

Outdoor living brand Outer is expanding into solar and energy storage with a new company called Outer Spaces. Its first product, the OS1, is a backyard pavilion designed to accommodate uses ranging from an outdoor kitchen or lounge to an office or gym, while keeping the energy equipment largely out of sight.

The pavilion places Horizon BladePack lithium iron phosphate battery modules horizontally inside its metal deck, beneath a wooden surface. Each module has a nominal capacity of 7.83 kWh, and the system can be expanded to as many as eight modules for a total capacity of 62.64 kWh. The modules measure 1,470 × 368.6 × 125 mm and weigh approximately 72 kg each.

The batteries use passive cooling and include integrated heating for temperatures below 0 C. Their specified operating range is −20 C to 55 C, with output reduced above 40 C. The modules have an IP67 rating and a 10-year limited warranty.

The OS1 uses a Fox ESS H1-11.4-US hybrid inverter and a 12 kW OS1 DC hub. Rated AC output is 7.83 kVA with one battery module and 11.4 kVA with multiple modules. Motor-starting capability is listed at up to 80 A and 160 A, respectively.

The system can be AC-coupled to an existing solar installation and offers self-consumption, time-of-use and backup-standby modes. Outer Spaces also describes it as virtual power plant-ready, with support for PV black start. Generator integration requires the Fox ESS Hub G2.

The OS1 is planned in 12 × 12 ft and 12 × 24 ft versions. They are specified with six and 12 solar panels, respectively, providing approximately 2.5 kW or 5 kW of solar capacity. Battery capacity can be expanded over time, although the available information gives conflicting indications about whether the initial storage configuration is one 7.83 kWh module, two modules or approximately 15 kWh.

Outer Spaces launched with an $8 million pre-seed funding round led by Upfront Ventures, with participation from Unlock Venture Partners, Mucker Capital and Genius Ventures. The company plans to present the OS1 at RE+ in Las Vegas in mid-November. Initial pricing has not been disclosed.

Sources: pv magazine.