Jackery’s expensive solar-powered Gazebo is a good DIY idea

Jackery, the home battery company, is back at CES with a solar-powered Gazebo it swears you’ll be able to buy in the second half of the year, starting in California. With an expected price of between $12,000 and $15,000 before adding any battery storage, you might want to save a few bucks and build one yourself from solar panels and power stations that Jackery, and many others, will happily sell you.

Jackery’s 4.5m x 3m x 2.7m (14ft 9.17in x 9ft 10.11in x 8ft 10.30in) aluminum Gazebo is fitted with 2,000W of solar panels, integrated lighting, a pull-down projector screen, and a pair of weather-resistant AC outlets. Pair it with one of Jackery’s power stations like the new IP65-rated Explorer 1500 Ultra, and the solar retreat transforms into a solar generator, capable of keeping a portable fridge, TV or projector, sound system, and lighting running for at least a few hours. For even longer runtime you can buy a bigger battery from Jackery’s HomePower series, or from Anker, EcoFlow, Bluetti, etc.

Just note that battery companies often announce gee-whiz products at CES to gain attention that never actually ship. Last year it was Anker’s perovskite beach umbrella that’s still not available to buy. And before that, it was Jackery’s solar-powered rooftop tent announced at CES 2024.