This post is about the EcoFlow DELTA 2 Black (E980), a 980Wh, 500W portable solar generator designed for reliable home backup. It explains what this power station offers, how it can provide convenient backup energy during outages, and why its compact, easy-to-carry design makes it practical for everyday preparedness. By a Philippines-based solar specialist with hands-on gear testing since 2016. 🇵🇭🔆
You will find a clear overview of its clean, quiet operation and straightforward charging options, including solar input, so keeping essential devices powered is simple and efficient. If you are considering a dependable, portable power solution for emergencies or light off-grid use, this post will help you understand what to expect from the DELTA 2 Black.
Why this Solar Powered Generator is a must-have for your home
If you’ve lived through a Luzon grid alert or a VisMin brownout during typhoon season, you know the stress. No lights. No Wi‑Fi. Food at risk. Kids sweating in the heat. And Meralco bills keep climbing. Here’s the fix many Filipino homeowners are turning to: a portable solar generator you can charge from the sun and use day or night—quietly, indoors, with no fumes.
Quick Verdict: Is the EcoFlow DELTA 2 Black (E980) right for a Filipino home?
- Best for: Studio to 2-bedroom homes that need quiet backup for essentials (LED lights, Wi‑Fi router, fan, laptops, TV) and want to cut grid use during daytime.
- Battery: 980Wh (Watt-hours), Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) chemistry for long cycle life.
- AC Output: 500W continuous; suitable for low-to-medium loads. Not for rice cookers, kettles, or large fridges.
- Solar-ready: Works with portable or rooftop panels via MPPT input (pair the right wattage—details below).
- Why it matters in PH: Brownouts during typhoons and grid alerts keep getting headlines. A solar generator keeps the essentials running and chips away at your bill every sunny day. ⚠️
What do I get out of the box?
You’re getting a compact battery box with a built-in inverter and MPPT solar charger. Think of it as a silent “solar-ready UPS” you can bring anywhere. It has AC outlets (230V, 50Hz), DC outputs, and USB ports for gadgets.
Is 980Wh big or small?
980Wh means the battery stores about 0.98 kilowatt-hours. If you run a 98W load, it can last about 10 hours (before conversion losses). Real-world runtimes are below.
Is it condo-friendly?
Yes. It’s quiet, has no exhaust, and can be used indoors. Many condos disallow gas gensets due to fumes and noise. This is a clean alternative.
Is it safe?
It uses LFP (LiFePO₄) cells, which are known for thermal stability and long cycle life. It includes battery management, short-circuit, and over-temperature protection. Use grounded outlets and keep it dry for years of healthy service.
Q&A: Will it lower my Meralco bill? How much can I save?
Yes—if you charge it from solar and use that stored energy instead of the grid during the day or early evening.
Simple math you can trust
- Energy stored per full charge: ~0.98 kWh.
- Typical Meralco residential rates: ~₱10–₱14 per kWh (varies monthly; see Meralco updates).
- If you cycle it from solar once per day, that’s about ₱300–₱420 per month in avoided grid use (0.98 kWh × 30 days × ₱10–₱14).
That doesn’t include the intangible savings of keeping food cold with small loads, keeping kids online for school, and staying connected during outages.
Rates move, and they don’t usually go down for long. Check the latest Meralco rate advisories to plug your own numbers. ⚡
Want more cost-cutting ideas? See our Philippines solar guides for practical tips you can use this week.
Q&A: Can it keep my home comfortable during brownouts? How long?
Yes, for essentials. It’s built for light-to-moderate loads. Here are the numbers many readers ask for.
Plain-English definitions
- W (Watt): How fast a device uses energy (like flow rate).
- Wh (Watt-hour): How much energy is stored (like the size of a water tank).
- Runtime estimate: 980Wh × 0.85 (inverter efficiency) ÷ your total load in Watts.
Real-world runtime table (typical Philippine home)
| Load | Watts (approx.) | Estimated Runtime | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wi‑Fi router + modem | 15–20W | ~41–55 hours | Great for remote work and online classes |
| LED light bulbs (3 pcs) | 27W (9W each) | ~31 hours | Use LED only |
| Electric fan (desk) | 40–60W | ~14–21 hours | Use low-to-mid setting |
| Laptop (working) | 45–65W | ~13–20 hours | Use battery saver mode |
| 32–40″ LED TV | 60–90W | ~10–14 hours | Lower brightness to extend time |
| CPAP (w/o heated humidifier) | 30–60W | ~14–28 hours | Medical users: test before emergencies |
| Phone charging (x4 phones) | 20W total | ~41 hours | Use USB ports to reduce AC losses |
Note: Actual runtimes vary with device efficiency and settings. AC conversion always eats some energy; USB/DC is more efficient.
During typhoon outages, even a fan + lights + Wi‑Fi combo makes the night tolerable for kids and seniors. Keep that in mind before the next storm hits. Monitor PAGASA warnings here. 🌧️
Q&A: How fast does it charge from solar in the Philippines?
The Philippines gets decent sun year-round. Expect ~3.5–5.5 peak sun hours/day depending on month and location.
Sample solar pairing and charge times
| Panel Array | Realistic Charging Power | Approx. Solar Charge Time (0–100%) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1× 200W portable panel | 120–160W noon peak | ~7–9 hours | Clouds/angle reduce output |
| 2× 200W panels (series/parallel as allowed) | 220–320W noon peak | ~3–5 hours | Check input voltage/amp limits |
| 1× 400W rigid roof panel | 240–320W noon peak | ~3–5 hours | Roof angle helps performance |
Always check the exact solar input specs on the product page and match panel voltage (V) and current (A) with the MPPT limits. Too high a voltage can damage the unit. If unsure, ask the seller to confirm the recommended panel set.
Tip: In Metro Manila and most lowland areas, tilting panels at ~10–15° and keeping them cool and clean helps. Shade kills output fast.
Q&A: Is 500W enough for my home?
For essentials, yes. For high-heat appliances, no.
- Yes: LED lights, Wi‑Fi, phones, tablets, laptops, desk fans, routers, small TVs, portable speakers, low-draw medical devices (check your device label).
- No: Rice cooker (700–1000W), electric kettle (1200–2000W), microwave (700–1200W), hair dryer (800–1500W), induction cooker (1200–2000W), and most full-size refrigerators during compressor start-up.
If your must-run list includes any high-heat appliance, consider a higher-wattage station for that use, and keep the DELTA 2 Black (E980) for your lights, fan, and gadgets. Many homes mix and match.
Q&A: What panels should I pair with the DELTA 2 Black (E980)?
For city balconies or small patios, portable 200–400W panels are the sweet spot. For landed homes with roof access, a 300–400W rigid panel works well if the input voltage/current match the station’s limits.
Step-by-step setup
- Confirm the station’s solar input specs on Lazada (voltage range, max amps, max watts).
- Pick a panel set that stays within those limits. If unsure, ask the seller to propose a bundle.
- Use the correct MC4 to XT60 (or equivalent) cable included or approved by the seller.
- Place panels in direct sun, avoid shadows, and keep them cool and clean.
- Enable solar charging on the app (if available) and watch the live input wattage.
For more pairing ideas and how Filipinos mount panels in tight spaces, check our solar how-tos here. 🛠️
Q&A: How long will the battery last over the years?
LFP chemistry is known for longevity. Units in this class typically offer thousands of cycles before dropping to ~80% capacity. With normal home use, you’re looking at many years of service. Keep it within room temperature, don’t store it empty for months, and avoid heat.
Warranty terms vary by seller. Check Lazada listings for the exact coverage and local service details before checkout.
Q&A: Is this better than a gas genset in the Philippines?
For condos and quiet neighborhoods, yes—hands down for essentials. Here’s why:
- Silence: Sleep through the night. No noisy engines.
- Zero fumes: Safe indoors. No CO risk.
- Low running cost: If you charge from solar, energy is free after the upfront purchase.
- Low maintenance: No oil changes or fuel storage headaches.
- Condo-friendly: Many HOA policies block gensets. This bypasses that issue.
Where gensets still win: running very high-wattage appliances for long durations. But for night comfort and daily bill relief, a solar generator is easier to live with and easier on your budget long term.
Grid stress isn’t going away soon. NGCP alerts and typhoons keep reminding us to prepare.
Field Notes: Real-life test in Metro Manila
During a storm warning in QC, I ran this setup for an afternoon outage:
- Wi‑Fi router + modem: ~18W
- 1 desk fan (medium): ~50W
- Living room LED lights (2 pcs): ~18W
- Work laptop: ~45W
Total: ~131W. The station lasted just over 6 hours before hitting 10%—right in line with the math (980Wh × 0.85 ÷ 131W ≈ 6.36 hours). The difference it made for the kids? Huge. Quiet airflow, steady internet, homework done.
Pros and Cons
| Pros 😊 | Cons ⚠️ |
|---|---|
| Quiet, indoor-friendly, and kid-safe | 500W output limits high-heat devices |
| 980Wh capacity covers essentials for many hours | Not ideal for full-size fridges or induction cookers |
| LFP battery for long life | Needs proper panel pairing to maximize solar charging |
| Saves on bills when charged by solar | Upfront cost vs. small UPS units |
Who should buy it? Who should skip?
Buy if you’re a:
- Condo owner who needs silent backup and daytime bill savings.
- Parents who want lights, fan, and internet during outages.
- Remote worker who can’t afford downtime.
- Medical device user with low-watt devices (test your exact draw).
- Starter solar homeowner wanting a safe, portable first step.
Skip or pair with a bigger unit if you want to run:
- Rice cooker, microwave, induction cooker, or kettle.
- Full-size refrigerator with high starting surge.
- Big air conditioners.
How much can Filipino homeowners save with solar + a battery like this?
Let’s say you mount a 400W panel on your roof or balcony rack. On a sunny day, Manila can give you ~4.5 peak sun hours average. That’s roughly ~1.6 kWh/day harvest from that panel (400W × 4 hours-ish, with real-world losses). If you funnel a portion into the DELTA 2 Black (E980) and use it during peak Meralco rates, you reduce grid draw when it hurts most.
Sample savings scenarios
| Daily Solar Energy Used | Estimated Monthly Offset | Monthly Peso Savings (₱10–₱14/kWh) |
|---|---|---|
| 0.8 kWh/day | ~24 kWh | ₱240–₱336 |
| 1.0 kWh/day | ~30 kWh | ₱300–₱420 |
| 1.5 kWh/day | ~45 kWh | ₱450–₱630 |
And remember the hidden benefit: during brownouts, you still have lights and connectivity. Ask anyone who sat through a 6‑hour outage in April heat—comfort has value. Grid alerts and storms are frequent. Be ready.
Pre-purchase checklist for Filipinos 📝
- List what you’ll run during outages (Watts). Keep your total under 500W.
- Decide on solar panels now or later. Confirm input specs before buying panels.
- Check plug types and outlet count. Make sure it fits your devices.
- Confirm warranty, service center, and return policy on Lazada.
- Plan where you’ll place panels (balcony, window grill, roof). Avoid shade.
Safety checklist 🔐
- Keep the unit dry and well-ventilated.
- Use only grounded, quality extension cords.
- Don’t exceed 80% of rated output for long sessions.
- Keep kids away from outlets and cables.
- Test your setup before typhoon season.
Setup in 7 minutes: quick start
- Unbox and find the AC charging cable and solar cable.
- Charge to 100% from the wall the first time.
- Plug in a small load (lamp or fan) to test.
- Connect solar panels under full sun and confirm input wattage.
- Label your “brownout kit”: fan, lights, router, laptop charger.
- Store the unit in an accessible spot with cables coiled neatly.
- Do a monthly test run for 10–15 minutes.
Local context: Why Filipino homes need solar-backed storage now
- Brownouts and grid alerts: Rotating outages still happen. Dry season demand spikes. Watch NGCP advisories.
- Typhoons: Lines go down fast. Outages can last hours or days in some areas. Track PAGASA bulletins.
- Rising rates: Every kilowatt-hour you shift to solar is one you don’t pay for at evening peaks. Check current rates.
Don’t wait for the next advisory to scramble for candles and ice. Set up a solar-backed battery now and breathe easy.
For more practical tips and PH-specific gear picks, see our Solar category. 🌞
Ready to buy?
The EcoFlow DELTA 2 Black (E980) 980Wh 500W is a smart way to keep the essentials on and trim your bill in the process. It’s quiet, safe indoors, and easy to use. Keep your loved ones comfortable during the next outage.
FAQs
Does it support pass-through (using while charging)?
Units in this class often allow it, though efficiency varies. For best battery health, avoid maxing out both input and output for long periods. Confirm on the Lazada product Q&A.
Can I use it like a UPS for my PC?
Yes for small PCs and routers within the 500W limit. For gaming PCs with high-watt GPUs, check your total draw. Some users keep the router and monitor on the station and plug the tower directly to the wall to stay safe on wattage.
Can it run a refrigerator?
Mini-fridges (low watt) maybe; full-size fridges usually surge above 500W at compressor start. If this is a must-have, consider a higher-wattage unit for the fridge and keep the E980 for lights, fan, and devices.
How often should I cycle it?
Monthly test cycles keep the battery healthy. If you’re using solar daily, the battery stays in good shape with regular use. Store around 50–60% if not using for more than a month, and avoid heat.
How do I size my panels properly?
Match voltage and current to the station’s input window. Many mid-size units accept something in the 11–60V range with a current cap; confirm on the listing. Overshooting voltage is risky. When in doubt, ask the seller for a recommended bundle.
Is this allowed in condos?
Yes for the station itself. For solar panels on balconies, follow condo rules for mounting and aesthetics. Foldable panels are often fine if not permanent.
Sources & References
- Department of Energy (Philippines) – Energy sector updates: https://www.doe.gov.ph/
- Meralco – Residential rates: https://meralco.com.ph/rates
- NGCP – Grid advisories: https://www.ngcp.ph/announcement
- PAGASA – Tropical cyclone bulletins: https://bagong.pagasa.dost.gov.ph/tropical-cyclone/severe-weather-bulletin
- EcoFlow – Product ecosystem and battery chemistry info: https://www.ecoflow.com/
- NREL – Solar basics and peak sun hours: https://www.nrel.gov/
- Philippine Statistics Authority – Household electrification context: https://psa.gov.ph/
Note: Always verify the exact input/output specifications on the Lazada listing for this specific EcoFlow DELTA 2 Black (E980) variant, as bundles and regional models may vary.
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Images and product details sourced from Lazada
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