California startup launches DC-powered solar water heater

Apparent Inc. has unveiled a new water heater that can reportedly offset 100% of a home’s water heating cost. The system uses low-voltage DC electricity generated by conventional solar panels and a cloud based, machine learning platform that manages energy in real-time.

November 13, 2025 Emiliano Bellini

Image: Apparent Energy

From pv magazine Global

US-based startup Apparent Inc. has introduced a direct current (DC)-powered solar water heater designed for residential use.

The system operates entirely off-grid, running on standard photovoltaic panels. It can be configured with four solar modules in standalone mode or integrated into a hybrid grid-connected setup, according to the company.

The PV modules deliver low-voltage DC power directly to a patented alloy heating element, which generates heat and transfers it to the tank’s water. Apparent says its Advanced Alloy Heating Element offers 30% greater heat storage capacity and extended temperature retention, though further technical specifications were not disclosed.

The system also features igOS, an AI-driven control platform that serves as a bi-directional demand management tool. The platform uses real-time data and a smartphone app to optimize system performance and manage distributed energy resources, including both real and reactive power.

Apparent claims the water heater has a lifespan of 10 to 15 years with proper maintenance.

“The system is 100% grid-independent, providing critical energy resilience. Even during a blackout, it continues to deliver hot water and generate returns,” the company said, adding that the product is fully manufactured in the United States.

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