A power panel is handy if you plan to use an electric starter and an electric fuel pump. My Hanger 9 panel shot craps very early on as far as the glow ignitor system is concerned, but I still use it for the other functions. An electric starter can be run from a battery box without a power panel, and many use mechanical fuel pumps. A starter may well be considered a safety matter, so don't lightly decide to do without one. I have been flying these things for over 40 years, and the electric starter is one of the best things to happen to beginners. Hard on engines, sometimes, but......... Good luck, Dzl