Battery Technology Is Ready – Is the Industry?
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.