NXTGENbps recently took part in Sustainability Behind the Lens, a key industry event hosted by The Production Guild of Great Britain at Garden Studios. Designed to spotlight practical solutions for greener productions, the event brought together suppliers, studios, and sustainability advocates from across the sector.
It proved a busy and successful day for the NXTGENbps team, who showcased the full range of our zero-emission battery systems – including the Bear, which was also on display with our friends at Get Set Hire. The event provided a valuable opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals and demonstrate how clean, silent power is helping productions cut emissions without compromising on performance.
If you would like to speak with our super friendly team about our range of sustainable power solutions, please get in touch!
Being a lover of all things outdoors, a camper van owner, and someone who actively seeks out totally “off-grid” locations, I’ve had a few challenges to overcome.
The main issue is adapting to limited power requirements. Like most campers, we have low expectations but a lack of willingness to compromise on some of our comforts we’ve come to consider essential.
We have been trying out a portable lithium battery supplied by NXTGENbps in the hope it will allow us those extra luxuries.
The BMZ Power Station Life Bat 2500W
This battery is “similar” to many others widely available, and the product we have is a 2500w(hr) with a peak of 4400w. The main advantages of this product compared to others are the build quality and IP rating.
The outer casing is black aluminium with chunky rubber bumpers protecting the edges and corners. With all the covers closed, it has an IP65 rating. The rear charging sockets are sealed with a rubber bung, and the front output socket has a flap. If you’re using the heavy-duty IP44-rated plug and sockets, it stays splash-proof even while in use.
I wanted a battery that could be multi-purpose and not just focussed on camping, so I’ve given it an extensive DIY tool test too!
The recharge time from 10% to 80% takes 2 hrs and just under another 2 to squeeze in the last 20%.
Camping
One thing we have pondered over is our roof-mounted Webasto Cool Top Aircon 20.
This is probably the biggest single draw on power we have, and we would usually only be able to use this if we had external power on a campsite, for example.
We tested this on full power on a setting of 16 degrees C inside (from 20 degrees). The draw of power fluctuates as the temperature changes, but we were able to keep it running for just over 5.5 hrs from full to 10%.
This could be extended considerably with the use of 400w solar panels recharging, but equally would likely decrease on hotter days and overnight.
This would still take the edge off those hot days, and we would look to play with the settings to get a balance of longevity with a slightly higher temp setting and lower fan setting.
On our recent remote wild camping trip, we tried the battery outside, protecting it with a small cheap beach shelter that we use for our electric cool box. They snuggled up nicely together, and we were able to run our cool box for 3 days without making much of a dent in the battery charge. We then used it to plug all our handheld devices in.
We used it each day over 4 days for recharging 2 dog Tractive trackers, 2 iPhones and an iPad using the 4 USB-Cs and a multi-USB plug.
On day 4 we still had 80% left.
Having put the main camper batteries to full use – keeping a fridge running, water pump usage for the usual every day running plus 4 showers – we used the Bat to replenish our leisure batteries from 70% back up to 100%.
On day 4, when we moved on, we had everything fully charged. We’d spent 3 evenings watching TV (we have 3 dogs, so options are limited for nights out).
We left with 50% charge in the Bat and would just have needed a water refill to be ready for another 4–5 days.
DIY
Another of my outside hobbies involves power tools!
There are many battery-operated hand tools around of various quality and expense. The batteries are so expensive, and once you choose a make you have to stick with them to ensure changeable batteries.
This also begs the question – what to do with a perfectly good set of mains-powered tools? So I spent a weekend making things out of scraps of wood.
I plugged a multi-extension lead into the Bat and ran my sander, jigsaw, Henry hoover and mitre saw. And over 2 days of creating sawdust, we were still at 60%.
Rather than having to be in reach of a power supply, I was able to go to the end of my garden and keep the dust and noise away from those it would likely annoy. This is a huge advantage as I have to replace a decking shortly and all my tools for this run off mains power!
Tools Used Jigsaw – 650W Bosch – 3.8 hrs (if you haven’t finished cutting by then, you’re using the wrong tool) Orbital Sander – 190W Bosch – 13.1 hrs Plunge Saw – 1200W – 2.08 hrs Mitre Saw – 1500W – 1.66 hrs Henry Hoover – 620W – 4 hrs (… and nobody does 4 hrs of hoovering)
The Kitchen – Home and Away
I have tested a few extra luxuries out based on what the general “camping community” have said they cannot possibly live without.
Air fryers A single drawer 1550W Ninja air fryer would run for approx. 1 hr 40 mins – which is a roast chicken and spuds, with fish and chips the following day.
Kettles These vary in size and power, but it’s good to look for a low-wattage one for camping, like a 1000W, as these will boil for 2.5 hrs on one charge – and that’s a lot of cups of tea!
Rice cooker Not as crazy as it sounds, as some rice cookers can be used as slow cookers too. We have a 400W 1.8L mini multi-cooker which cooks rice (all colours) in 30 min. That’s 6.25 meals of 🍚 – however, it doesn’t run on full power throughout the entire cooking time, so this leaves room for porridge or a stew!
Preppers!
I have recently heard this term used for people preparing for the invasion of zombies or when other powers take over the world and cut the power etc.
Well – we are preppers, and feel that a NXTGENbps Power2Go Bat completes the collection of essential kit.
The SHAPE Basecamp Emperor was designed with the practical demands of film and TV crews in mind. Whether on location or on set, productions often face limited access to reliable power and need a solution that can keep up.
SHAPE focused on two key areas: energy density and weight. The result is a system that offers extended runtimes without becoming cumbersome to transport or operate. Multi-mode charging options, including solar-only, mains-priority, solar-priority, and hybrid, mean it’s flexible enough to support fast-paced environments with minimal downtime.
Designed to go the distance
With up to 4,000 cycles at 80% capacity, the Emperor is built for long-term use. It performs reliably in temperatures from -20°C to 50°C and is housed in a durable shell that stands up to the elements. For productions working in harsh or unpredictable conditions, it offers dependable performance without the noise, fumes or maintenance of fuel-powered alternatives.
The clean sine wave output ensures stable power for sensitive equipment, helping crews avoid the disruptions sometimes caused by “dirty” power. It provides a simple and silent alternative to traditional generators, ready at the flick of a switch.
Supporting a lower-impact production
SHAPE is actively exploring ways to reduce the environmental impact of its battery technology. This includes researching alternatives to cobalt and other materials linked to unsustainable mining practices. Because the Emperor is rechargeable and has an extended lifespan, it also supports efforts to reduce e-waste, which is especially important in an industry that uses a large number of batteries.
Scalable, stable and safe
Built using lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO₄) technology, the Emperor avoids the thermal risks associated with some lithium battery types. This makes it safer to use near crew, vehicles and sensitive equipment. It is also scalable. You can extend the constant 10kW output by using the 15kWh back up unit. For even more power, link up to 20 units to reach 300kWh, supporting everything from trailers to high-demand production gear.
Looking ahead
While developments like solid-state batteries are still emerging, the Emperor reflects the direction battery technology is heading. It offers greater efficiency, improved safety and a more environmentally responsible approach. For crews looking to invest in a versatile, field-ready power system, it is a reliable, flexible option that fits easily into modern production workflows.
To find out more about the Emperor, click here or contact our super helpful team.
By Lesley Marr, Director of Sustainability & Business Development, NXTGENbps
Battery technology in film and TV has advanced rapidly – and the latest innovations are not just greener, they’re genuinely more practical. At NXTGENbps, we’ve seen growing interest from productions looking for quieter, cleaner power – but what’s often overlooked is just how far batteries have come in terms of performance, safety, and adaptability.
Take charging, for example. Today’s batteries are no longer grid-dependent. Our systems support multiple charging modes – solar, EV, and mains – offering greater flexibility for crews working in varied environments. Solar charging, in particular, provides a clear sustainability advantage and is ideal for off-grid locations, allowing productions to maintain continuity without relying on traditional infrastructure or fuel delivery.
Portability is also key. Our range of products is designed to be highly mobile to suit the fast-paced nature of production – whether in remote landscapes or busy urban settings. The SHAPE Basecamp Emperor delivers 15kWh in a weatherproof unit built for tough outdoor conditions – operating safely from -20°C to 50°C. With over 4,000 lifecycles to 80% capacity, it’s built for long-term use and when connected to the 15kWh stackable backup battery it can be daisy-chained up to 300kWh for larger shoots – all without noise, fumes, or fuel.
Flight safety is another barrier that’s been overcome. The latest battery from NXTGENbps, the Swift, uses solid-state chemistry to deliver high energy density in a lightweight, IP67-rated format. It’s certified for cargo air travel, opening up access to power in even the most remote or international locations.
And it’s not just about the batteries themselves. Smart monitoring apps are now standard on our most advanced units, giving crews real-time visibility of charge status, power draw, and overall health – critical for power planning and minimising downtime on set.
Battery safety concerns remain top of mind for many. That’s why every battery we offer is CE-certified and designed specifically for professional use – using stable chemistries like LiFePO4 and avoiding consumer-grade components that often fail in field conditions. Stable output (clean sine wave power) also protects sensitive equipment – ideal for DIT stations, cameras, and lighting control.
The more obvious benefits are environmental. Not just in terms of reducing emissions and carbon footprint, but in cutting waste. Longer-lasting batteries reduce the frequency of replacement, and many of our suppliers are investing in closed-loop recycling. Some are even repurposing EV batteries for second-life energy storage, extending their usable life before disposal.
As regulations tighten and production locations grow more varied, battery tech isn’t just keeping up – it’s ahead. From flight-safe power to solar charging, rugged design to long lifecycles, the solutions already exist.
The film industry feels like it’s getting back on track. We’re all hopeful for some sunny summer days to enjoy festivals and outdoor events, so if you’re planning your next sustainable production or event and looking to move away from fossil fuel generators, we’d be happy to help you find the right system. Explore our range online or speak with our super-helpful team.
BSC Expo was buzzing, and so was the NXTGENbps stand! As specialists in portable battery power solutions, we’re committed to delivering reliable, high-performance, and sustainable energy for film and broadcast. From debuting game-changing new products to showcasing trusted favorites, we had incredible conversations about the future of on-set power. If you missed us at the show, here’s a quick recap of what we brought to the floor.
NXTGENbps Swift made its debut and wowed with its lightweight power, rapid charging and flight-safe capabilities.
Strong, durable, and built to last, the SHAPE Basecamp Emperor made its mark.
A Stand Full of Energy! Big launches and great chats at a buzzing BSC Expo.
Our trusted favourite, the NXTGENbps Goat, proving once again why pros rely on it.
The Goat also lent a hand to our partner, Notorious DIT, helping to keep their stand powered up and running smoothly throughout the show.
The Anton Bauer Eden - Available through NXTGENbps, delivering reliable, sustainable power to filmmakers.
The Instagrid ONE Max delivers flexible power for filmmakers who need seamless energy on the go.
From debuting new innovations to showcasing trusted favorites, NXTGENbps brought sustainable, high-performance portable power to BSC Expo 2025. Missed us at the show? Get in touch to learn more about our products and how they can power your next production.
Meet the swift, one of nature’s most remarkable flyers. Known for their agility, endurance, and efficiency, these birds have captured the imagination of scientists and innovators alike. With their lightweight design and ability to thrive in any environment, swifts are the perfect example of how nature perfects performance. Here are five fascinating facts that these extraordinary birds are know for.
Endurance in Flight: Swifts can remain airborne for up to 10 months, showcasing unmatched stamina and reliability.
Lightweight Agility: Their streamlined bodies and lightweight design make swifts incredibly agile and efficient in flight.
Adaptable to Any Environment: Swifts thrive in diverse conditions, from urban areas to remote regions.
Fast and Efficient: Swifts are among the fastest birds, capable of reaching speeds of 105 mph in level flight.
Sustainable Survival: They have a highly energy-efficient way of living, using minimal resources to sustain their long flights.
Just as the swift embodies lightweight agility, adaptability, and remarkable endurance, we’ve been hard at work on something that brings these qualities to life in a different way. Meet us at BSC Expo to find out more!
A Lithium Iron Phosphate battery is a type of lithium-ion battery, which means it uses lithium ions to store and release energy. The key components in these batteries are:
Cathode – The positive side of the battery, made from Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4).
Anode – The negative side, typically made from graphite.
Electrolyte – A liquid or gel that allows lithium ions to move between the cathode and anode.
Separator – A barrier that keeps the cathode and anode from touching while still allowing ions to pass through.
How It Works
When the battery is charged, the following happens:
Lithium ions in the cathode (LiFePO4) are freed and move through the electrolyte toward the anode (graphite).
This movement of ions creates an electrical current that flows through the external circuit, powering devices connected to the battery.
The electrons that are released by the lithium ions also travel through the external circuit to provide electricity.
When the battery is discharged, the process reverses:
Lithium ions move from the anode back to the cathode (LiFePO4) through the electrolyte.
The flow of lithium ions creates an electrical current in the opposite direction, again powering your device.
Advantages
High Thermal Stability Of LiFePO4
One of the batteries significant advantages over other types of Lithium Ion batteries is that it’s less prone to overheating, catching fire or exploding. This is due to it not having any heavy metals in its composition, like cobalt, nickel or magnesium, which you will find in other Lithium Ion batteries.
Long Life Cycle
LiFePO4 has a longer life cycle than Lithium Ion batteries due to their chemical composition. They can endure thousands of charge to discharge cycles with minimal capacity fade. Meaning you can charge the battery to 100%, use it down to 0% recharge, do it all again, and the battery health won’t degrade.
Other litium ion batteries have a lower life cycles and are more prone to capacity fade as there charge – discharge cycles are lower.
Voltage
LiFePO4 has a lower voltage than other lithium ion batteries. Now this may seem like drawback,however it links to LiFePO4’s long life cycle. It means that the battery will last longer than other lithium batteries as they discharge there energy slower and steadier. Other Lithium batteris have a higher voltage which means they discharge their energy quicker and won’t last as long.
Environment friendly
LiFePo4 is recyclabe , Lithium-ion is not.
If Lithoum Iron Phosphate is recycled properly, the Lithium and Phosphorus found in old battery can be recycled to help make new ones. It isn’t easy to extract Lithium from batteries especially ones with other rare metals like cobalt, if lithium ion batteries get crushed, compressed or even jostled enough for it to break the battery the barrier between the cathode and anode of the lithium iron battery will rupture causing a breakaway thermal reaction from the lithium molecules. These molecules can reach extreme heat within a short time, ignite or explode.
We’re delighted to announce that Lesley Marr, Director of Sustainability at NXTGENbps, will be joining a panel discussion at theKitPlus Show London this month.
The panel will explore critical topics, including sustainable reporting, improving supply chain efficiency, and what we might expect in 2025. As sustainability continues to drive industry transformation, Lesley’s expertise will provide actionable takeaways for attendees navigating these changes.
The KitPlus Show is a fantastic opportunity to engage with industry professionals, exchange ideas, and explore the advancements shaping our future. NXTGENbps looks forward to connecting with partners and peers at the event and being part of these important conversations.
On any film or TV set, there is an array of critical equipment needed to keep things running smoothly—but perhaps most important to many brits is the tea urn. After all, keeping the cast and crew refreshed with a good brew is essential! On remote locations, this has often meant relying on petrol or diesel generators, or mains power where available. That’s why we put our NXTGENbps 5 kW Goat battery to the test: to show that sustainable, silent, and fume-free energy solutions can keep essential equipment powered without compromise.
We conducted this experiment using a 16-litre Swan urn equipped with a thermostat simmer control and a 2200W power rating. The ambient room temperature was approximately 15°C, and the Goat battery was at 98% capacity at the start. The first step was to bring the urn, filled to the max with cold water, to a boil. After 45 minutes, steam began to rise, and the water reached a boil—all while the battery still held strong at 67% capacity. We then dialed down the thermostat to setting 3, as recommended by the urn’s instructions. The battery held steady at 67% while we continued to use the urn
With lots of cups of tea enjoyed and the urn almost empty, we refilled it with cold water and noted that it took only 30 minutes to reach a boil this time. Interestingly, the battery’s level only dropped to 46% this time, and we observed that the peak power draw during this stage was 1890W, slightly below the rated 2200W.
Our findings indicate that the NXTGENbps 5 kW Goat battery can power a tea urn for approximately 4 hours while using only 50% of its capacity. Plus, with the addition of one solar panel it can extend the usage by an additional 30 minutes, while two solar panels can provide an extra hour of power. This experiment showcased the performance of the Goat battery and confirmed that essential on-set equipment can be powered in a sustainable, quiet, and emission-free way. It’s time to say goodbye to noisy, fume-filled generators and hello to eco-friendly power that keeps the crew going strong.
We are proud to have been a part of The Fuel Project, an important research initiative led by Film London and Creative Zero, focused on decarbonising transport and mobile power within the film and television industry. The study highlighted the significant carbon footprint associated with mobile power units (MPUs), which are widely used on film and TV sets.
NXTGENbps provided insights into how portable battery technology can replace traditional diesel-powered generators and demonstrated that battery-powered solutions are both practical and already in use on some production sets, reducing their emissions while maintaining operational efficiency.
The study’s findings showed that the film and TV industry can achieve an 80% reduction in MPU emissions by 2030 by doubling the number of battery MPUs in use, with a complete shift possible by 2036. These results present the opportunity for productions to adopt solutions now for a low-carbon future.
Why Sustainable Power Matters
The environmental impact of energy consumption in global production has become a key issue, and with diesel-powered mobile units being among the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions on set, it is critical that film and TV productions transition to greener energy sources.
Batteries offer a sustainable alternative, reducing both carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. However, widespread adoption is needed across the sector, supported by strategic investment in infrastructure and technology.
Making the Transition Happen
To meet decarbonisation goals, productions, suppliers, and stakeholders all need to integrate low-carbon solutions like battery-powered MPUs into their operations. The Fuel Project emphasises that the time for change is now, with every investment in cleaner power sources contributing to long-term savings, greater sustainability, and a stronger production landscape.
NXTGENbps is at the forefront of change, providing innovative battery solutions like the Goat, Fox and Meerkat, which are already being used to support sustainable, off-grid power on productions across the UK. Their silent operations and lack of fumes offer practical as well as sustainable benefits to production sets, providing a cleaner, quieter, and more dependable alternative to diesel generators. The Goat is the leading portable 5kW battery, known for its noiseless running, zero emissions and the flexibility to charge it via electric vehicle charger, mains or solar.
At NXTGENbps, our commitment to sustainability extends beyond providing battery solutions. We aim to support a future where film and TV production can succeed without environmental harm. Our involvement in The Fuel Project highlights the role that battery technologies can play in reducing emissions and supporting industry-wide decarbonisation. By shifting to low-carbon technologies, the film and TV industry can meet its sustainability targets while continuing to produce the content that audiences enjoy.
