Solar power research has come pretty far since the 70s. And over the past years, they are “more affordable now due to installation costs dropping over 70 percent in the last decade,” according to the Smithsonian. And if you are curious about solar energy, you will be pleased to know that since then there have been many technological advancements over the past 50 years available to the public for use around the home besides solar panels. Here are just a few of those options.
Solar-Powered Portable Smartphone Chargers
This is probably one of the more fascinating forms of technology that many are obsessed with. If you don’t know already, battery-charged phones can now be even more portable than a car charger. If you don’t have access to a wall plug, consider solar-powered phone chargers. Many large mobile data providers offer it alongside their newest batch of phones, but you can buy it from any online retailer or phone retail store.
Solar-Powered Wireless Bluetooth Speakers
You may think that solar energy alone isn’t enough to charge something like a phone. Luckily, most phone accessories allow you to do both. A good Bluetooth speaker allows for adaptors and solar charging to get the most out of your devices. And yes, that includes more than just the speakers. You can even charge your tablet and your phone itself. Not enough? Backup batteries provide another 7 or so hours of use. This is great for when the sun goes down.
Solar Backpacks
Solar backpacks work similarly to solar Bluetooth speakers. Like most solar-powered gadgets they use PV cells to harness the sun’s energy and charge the battery pack. In the case of a solar backpack, the battery is built-in and can then charge a multitude of small devices, offering a whole different way to charge.
If your devices are in a backpack in the first place, chances are you’re attending university and need the extra charge walking across campus, backpacking it on a camping trip, or just traveling in general. If you live that life, consider a solar energy backpack to save you time and stay connected on the go.
Solar Generators
When home improvement is on your mind, the following are notable options. Fuel-powered generators are often hazards because of the fuel but last quite a while as they can be refilled. On the other hand, solar uses battery power that can only be charged around when the sun is up. It also depends on how much you’re willing to pay for a longer-lasting battery.
Unfortunately, they are not at the level where they can charge an entire home but can be somewhat efficient. The price between traditional and solar generators, in particular, is divided considerably: traditional generators cost 1,000 on average, while solar generators can cost an average of about 2,000. Remember the novel thing about solar is that it uses renewable energy, meaning whatever form it takes, it can be recharged for as long as the object lives.
Solar Panels
But generators are best used and often marketed as backup power. If you want something more substantial, solar panels offer one of the best ranges of power. This is a particularly popular choice as well, as it decreases energy bills, improves public health, does not require water, and offers a cleaner, more self-sufficient lifestyle to buyers.
If you’re an independent-minded homeowner, remember to plan ahead to determine if solar panels are right for you. There are different methods of placement for several kinds of roofing, including tiles. There are even some roofs that have solar panels installed into the roof material itself. Whichever you choose, it’ll be connected to your home’s grid at the main fuse box and can be ready to go immediately.
