Are you tired of being tethered to an electrical outlet? Do you love to travel and explore the great outdoors, but still want to stay connected to your devices? Then portable solar energy power stations may just be the solution you’ve been looking for.
In this article, we’ll explore the world of portable solar power, including what it is, how it works, and some of the innovative new products that are changing the game. So let’s get started!
What is Portable Solar Power?
Portable solar power is a form of energy that is generated from sunlight using a generator that can be easily moved from place to place. Most portable solar power units use photovoltaic panels (PV panels) to convert sunlight into energy, which can then be stored in a battery for later use.
Examples of Portable Solar Power
Portable solar power is all around us, and you may already be using it without even realizing it. Here are just a few examples of the many sizes and styles of portable solar power:
- Pocket calculators have been using portable solar power for years. Simply exposing the calculator to sunlight can store solar power for use on the go.
- Garden lights and swimming pool lights now use portable solar power. You can rearrange your lights or carry one as a flashlight, and the portable solar power goes with you.
- Fold-out solar panels that can be carried in a case the size of your day planner. Wherever you take it, you can open the panel to charge your cell phone battery, GPS, or other gadgets you carry.
- “Powerfilm” products are paper-thin PV panels that can easily be carried to charge almost all Lithium, NiCad or NiMH batteries. You can recharge batteries for boom boxes at the beach or while camping. You can recharge your digital camera or camcorder while on a hike. As long as you have sunlight, you have portable solar power.
- Flexible PV panels give portable solar power for hikers and campers. This portable solar power can be rolled up like a sleeping bag, and then set up anywhere. You can drop it, step on it, dampen it while crossing a stream and it will still give you power.
- Larger portable solar energy power stations can consist of one or more photovoltaic panels (PV panels), simple wiring for the input jack, and a battery sometimes referred to as a power pack. A commercially-produced portable solar power unit like this may also include a small fluorescent light, and a connection to your vehicle’s cigarette lighter plug.
Innovative Portable Solar Power
As the demand for value and convenience increases, portable solar power is becoming more innovative. Here are some examples of the latest products that are changing the game:
- The “Power Purse” is a portable solar power purse that can power up small electronics. It’s covered with laminated portable solar power panels, making it both a lovely accessory and a practical solution for on-the-go charging.
- The “Juice Bag” is a portable solar power backpack that is perfect for those times when you’re stuck in the middle of nowhere. Flexible ballistic nylon solar panels make it lighter than solar bags with stiff glass solar panels. You can take off your Juice Bag when you need to recharge items such as cameras, cell phones, or GPS units. It generates electricity in both direct and indirect sunlight.
- A cozy jacket with multiple pockets is also available with portable solar power panels. Hikers, military personnel, and travelers can fill the pockets with cell phone, GPS, laptop, camera, and other electronic devices. Then slip the 3-ounce portable solar power panel into a special holder on the back of the jacket, and you can generate power on the go.
Portable Solar Energy Power Stations
Portable solar energy power stations take the concept of portable solar power to the next level. These power stations can be large enough to generate sufficient electrical power for a small village, or small enough to be carried by a child. They are versatile, convenient, and environmentally friendly.
Some practical uses of portable solar energy power stations include:
- Camping: Portable solar energy power stations are perfect for camping trips. They allow you to power your devices, refrigerators, and lights without relying on noisy and polluting generators.
- Remote locations: Portable solar energy power stations can provide electrical energy when you travel to a remote third world village on business. They can provide military units with necessary electrical energy while they are on the move.
- Emergency situations: In the event of a power outage or natural disaster, portable solar energy power stations can provide a reliable source of power for essential devices and appliances.
- Off-grid living: For those who choose to live off-grid, portable solar energy power stations provide a convenient and renewable source of power for their daily needs.
The Future of Energy on the Go
Portable solar energy power stations are just one example of the innovative solutions that are changing the way we think about energy. As technology continues to advance and we become more conscious of our impact on the environment, it’s likely that we’ll see even more exciting developments in the world of portable solar power.
In the meantime, if you’re looking for a reliable, convenient, and environmentally friendly way to power your devices on the go, consider investing in a portable solar energy power station. With a range of sizes and styles available, there’s sure to be one that fits your needs and lifestyle.
