Germana Carillo All you need is "a normal wall socket" to connect this, albeit expensive, electric induction hob designed by the American start-up Copper. What is it and where is it located?
@Copper
The debate between gas and induction stoves isn’t a recent one, but in recent years it’s become more urgent. Health issues, eco-sensitivity, and high fuel prices have prompted many households to reconsider their cooking options.
It’s been long established that gas stoves — still ubiquitous — emit poisons such as nitrogen dioxide, a trigger for asthma, and benzene, a known carcinogen. And don’t forget about the economics: those monthly bills aren’t getting smaller.
In addition to that, studies have found that even when they are turned off, gas stoves emit methane — the primary component of natural gas — a potent greenhouse gas propelling climate change. So what are the low-cost, low-effort alternatives?
Why induction cooking?
Induction ranges do have a clear set of advantages over gas stoves. Gas burners waste about half of the heat they generate, while induction systems can achieve up to 90% efficiency by only heating the area touching the pot. That means faster cooking, less energy wasted, and a more secure kitchen — no open flames and no poisonous gas venting.
The plug-in induction range that’s changing the game
California tech firm Copper announced a portable induction range that fits into a standard household outlet. Unlike most electric stoves, which require 240-volt hookups, Copper’s version runs on a mere 120 volts — what’s standard for U.S. homes. No electrical upgrades necessary.
As reported by the Associated Press, the appliance has some significant advantages:
- “energy efficiency: it loses less heat and uses less power than traditional stoves”
- “safety: it does not employ open flames and does not create indoor pollutants”
- “easy to install: plug it into any run-of-the-mill outlet — no rewiring required”
- “smart battery: an onboard battery can be charged off-peak when electricity is cheaper, cutting overall costs”
A step toward sustainability?
Induction cooking offers a quick solution to minimize the environmental impact of home cooking. Using a system like Copper’s can potentially promote energy efficiency and significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions, leading the planet towards a greener, cleaner future.
