Portable Solar Power | Solar Chargers

Solar Power - Save Money with Solar Power

2008-10-20T04:55:00.001-07:00

Learn about how you can use solar power to save money and one of many good ways to save energy in your home.

Save Money with Solar Power
One way to use solar power to save money is through the use of a practice called “Net Metering.” What is Net Metering? Net Metering is the practice of consumers “selling” energy to the electricity companies when they have some form of renewable energy facility installed at their home and a surplus is created. A good example of [...]

Solar Power - Build Your Own Solar Hot Water Heater

2008-10-20T04:51:00.001-07:00

How to Build Your Own Solar Hot Water Heater Do you want a solar hot water heater for your home? It’s entirely possible to heat your water with solar power and save money on your energy bill. An added benefit is that you will help clean up the environment by using solar energy instead of polluting [...]

Save Money with Solar Power
Learn about how you can use solar power to save money and one of many good ways to save energy in your home.

Solar Power - Save Money with Solar Power

2008-10-20T04:49:00.001-07:00

Learn about how you can use solar power to save money and one of many good ways to save energy in your home.

Build Your Own Solar Hot Water Heater
How to Build Your Own Solar Hot Water Heater Do you want a solar hot water heater for your home? It’s entirely possible to heat your water with solar power and save money on your energy bill. An added benefit is that you will help clean up the environment by using solar energy instead of polluting [...]

The Popularity of Solar Chargers

2008-09-01T15:26:00.000-07:00

Portable Solar Power | Solar Chargers

Solar battery chargers have been around for decades, but their popularity has increased a lot in just the last two years. This is partially because of advancements in technology, and partially because of our increased awareness of the need to shift to cleaner renewable energy sources.

Advancements in technology have reduced the sizes and weights of solar panels, while increasing their efficiency. This allows for small lightweight portable solar chargers to be produced. Another factor which plays a part in the rapidly expanding field of portable solar power, is the increased amount of electronic gadgets that we carry around.

Twenty years ago there were not many people walking around with cell phones. Today, a cell phone, iPod or MP3 player, and a digital camera tend to be the least that carry around with us - either on a daily basis, or during our time off or when going on a trip.

With all these electronic gadgets comes the need for electricity and power. And, thus portable solar panels and solar battery chargers have found their niche.

There are several advantages to solar chargers and portable solar panels. First of all, they are eco/environment-friendly. They do not produce harmful waste, and can be used anywhere where there is daylight.

Many people think that solar chargers can only be used in warm sunny areas. This is not necessarily true. Solar panels are more effective in colder temperatures. As a matter of fact, a solar charger or panel would create more electricity on a clear day in Alaska, than it would in the sun of the Mohave dessert. This is because the temperature of the solar panel influences the effectiveness with which it can convert solar energy into electrical energy.

The above fact, combined with the increased effectiveness of solar panels, has made solar chargers an attractive method of powering or recharging small electronic gadgets.

These days, a small solar battery charger can run your cell phone, iPod, or MP3 Player. It can recharge your digital camera and it can be used to recharge batteries.

Some solar chargers, such as the Solio Charger, come with internal batteries. These batteries are automatically charged when the solar charger is exposed to daylight. This allows you to recharge your cell phone, or other electronic device, from the solar charger, later on. Solar chargers with built-in batteries commonly store enough power to recharge your cell phone twice, or to run an MP3 player or iPod for many hours. A digital camera can also be fully recharged by one of these devices.

Solar chargers are starting to be a part of many standard emergency kits. They are a reliable source of power, so long as daylight is available.

Solar chargers are a convenient source of power in remote areas, on field trips, or when out hiking and camping. They can recharge batteries, cell phones, or other gadgets in any location.

In addition to being convenient, solar chargers are a clean energy source and do not cause pollution or other harmful emissions while creating electricity. They also reduce the need for disposable batteries, and thus reduce the overall volume of harmful chemicals and toxic waste in circulation on the planet.

New Blog: Hypermiling

2008-06-22T13:06:00.000-07:00

Our New Blog on Hypermiling

Have you heard the buzz about hypermiling? Hypermiling consists of a set of driving techniques which you can use to get the maximum mileage out of a gallon of gasoline.

We have just created a new blog on the subject of hypermiling and saving money on gas. You can see this blog here:

Hypermiling

Please stop by and let us know what you think!

P.S. This blog is part of a new website called Living Clean, which will eventually incorporate a variety of clean living subjects including Alternative Energy, Global Warming, non-toxic products, health, pullution reduction, and just about anything that has to do with living clean.

Global Warming Video

2008-06-15T00:57:00.000-07:00

Portable Solar Power | Solar Chargers

This is our own first video on Global Warming. Please comment!

Opti-Ups Solar Charger

2008-06-14T10:14:00.000-07:00

Portable Solar Power | Solar Chargers

The Opti-Ups Solar Charger

I've found a very informative video of what appears to be a very convenient Solar Charger for small devices. I've also found the product available at Opti-Ups Solar Charger. Here is the video where you can see how this charger works. Looks like a beautiful little device and perfect for hiking, trips to the beach, etc.

Find the Opti-Ups Solar Charger

Solar Battery Chargers

2008-06-14T06:38:00.000-07:00

Portable Solar Power | Solar Chargers

A new Hub Page on Solar Battery Chargers has been created at:

Solar Battery Chargers

New Squidoo Lens on Solar Power

2008-06-12T16:01:00.000-07:00

Portable Solar Power | Solar Chargers

We have created our first Squidoo Lens on Solar Power.

Please come see!

www.squidoo.com/solarsolarsolar

Solar Tower | Global Warming

2008-06-12T14:52:00.000-07:00

Portable Solar Power | Solar Chargers

I found another video on the subjects of Global Warming and alternative energy

Watch Solar Power Burning a Brick

2008-06-09T10:23:00.000-07:00

Portable Solar Power | Solar Chargers

This video gives a conveys a very good picture of how powerful solar energy can be.

Global Warming

2008-06-08T10:51:00.000-07:00

Portable Solar Power | Solar Chargers

I just came across this video on Global warming. It really made me laugh but I also think it gives a fantastic and logical explanation of things so I wanted to share it.

Solar Heating, Solar Thermal, and Solar Hot Water Systems

2008-06-05T05:41:00.000-07:00

Solar Power

Solar Heating, Solar Thermal, and Solar Hot Water Systems
By Danny Vo

Solar Heating (Solar Thermal) Systems

Using solar power to heat your water is one of the most practical and cost effective ways to harness energy from the sun. Solar thermal systems absorb the sun's heat and use it to heat your residence's own hot water needs. In general, the solar thermal system will easily heat water to 140ºF or higher matching the range of its traditional hot water tank counterpart. Effective systems can collect up to 70 percent of the sun's energy that reaches them and transfer it to you.

How Solar Hot Water Heating Systems Work

In general there are two types of active water heating systems: direct and indirect.

Direct Solar Water Heating

As implied, direct systems capture the sun's heat in collectors to directly heat a household's water supply. The system consists of collector pipes filled with water that are linked to an insulated storage tank usually located inside a home. As the sun heats the water inside the pipes, the water flows into the storage tank. Although direct systems are more efficient that indirect ones, they require more maintenance to keep the pipes clear of mineral deposits. Direct solar thermal systems also work best in warmer climates where the system is less prone to freezing.

Indirect Solar Water Heating

Indirect systems do not heat the water directly rather they use fluid with a low-freezing point to absorb radiant energy from the sun. Also termed closed-loop systems, an indirect solar water heating system absorbs the sun's rays into heat pipes evacuated of air which in turn heats up the pipe's thin copper laminate located on the back of each pipe. The collection array consists of multiple heating pipes that are mounted and tilted to maximize solar collection.

Often glycol (an ingredient in antifreeze) runs through adjacent pipes within the array and heats up via contact with the copper laminate. As the temperature in the pipes rise, the heat activates a pump that circulates the glycol fluid through a heat exchange coil in the water tank. That coil, in turn, transfers its heat to the water tank and voila, hot water is produced.

Solar Pool and Hot Tub Heating Systems

Solar pool heating systems work on a similar principle to a direct system solar hot water heater. However, because the water can heat up too much in a solar thermal system, the collector's glazing is often removed. Using non-glazed pipes or a heating system that resembles a flat black mat prevents the pool water from becoming super-heated as well as reduces costs to the overall system.

While solar pool and hot tub heating systems often are exempted from federal and state monetary incentives and rebates, they often pay for themselves within 1-5 years (depending mostly on where you live).

Radiant Heating Systems For Your Home

You can also use a solar hot water (or thermal) system to heat your home. Rather than transferring the heated water to a domestic hot water heater, the solar hot water system can connect to a radiant floor and/or wall panel radiator.

You can make the collection and distribution system as simple or complicated as you like depending on your location, climate, and intended use. Most radiant heating systems use the collection array to heat water and store it in a large thermal collection tank so that you have enough heat to last at least throughout the night. A general rule of thumb is to have a collection tank that can store 1½ to 2 gallons of water for every square foot of solar collector. That water, in turn, is piped via plastic tubing under floors to create an effective heating system.

Radiant floor heating systems have many advantages. They are typically 40 percent more efficient than a forced air heating system and can be zoned so that each room has its own thermostat. Furthermore, radiant floors distribute heat beneath your feet where it naturally rises providing a cozy and evenly distributed heated living space.

Tips for Installing Solar Hot Water Systems

Solar Hot Water Heater Tips for Cooler Climates

In cooler climates during the colder times of the year, an indirect solar hot water system can help lower your energy costs by working as a water preheating system rather than an outright water heater. Preheated water reduces the load on your other energy systems to heat the water.

Another trick to increase the system's efficiency is to wrap your water tank with an insulation blanket to keep the water sufficiently warm and further minimize the need to rely on traditional power sources to heat your water. (Note that not all water heaters need an insulation blanket. Many of the newer energy-efficient models come with a thicker layer of insulation inside the tank that eliminates the need for additional insulation).

Where to Place a Solar Thermal Collection System

Like other types of solar energy systems, solar hot water heating systems work best on south-facing walls with full sun exposure. Because of the collector tubes' type of construction, the outside elements have less effect on its performance compared to a photovoltaic collection system; a bit of shade on the thermal array will have a less noticeable impact.

Work with a Solar Pro

As with any solar power upgrade, consulting with a solar professional can help you evaluate your potential savings and determine the type of solar hot water system that's best for you. Solar thermal panels come both as stand-alone collection arrays and as integrated building panels. A solar pro can size your system and help you compare the different options for the collection panels and water tank you may need. And remember, solar domestic water systems often qualify for federal, state, and local tax credits and rebates!

Find more solar panel, solar power, and solar energy information at Cooler Planet.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Danny_Vo

Power Your Laptop with Solar Energy

2008-06-04T19:34:00.001-07:00

Power Your Laptop with Solar Energy

Posted using ShareThis

Solio Solar battery charger

2008-06-04T11:58:00.001-07:00

Solio Solar battery charger

Posted using ShareThis

Go Solar

2007-12-30T03:49:00.000-08:00

New Article: Go Solar

A new article has been added to Solar Chargers and Portable Solar Power Devices. It can be found here:

Go Solar

Solar Chargers for RVs, Boats, and Camping

2007-12-29T03:43:00.001-08:00

Solar Chargers | RVs, Boats, and Camping

New articles on the subject of Solar Charger in RVs, Boats, or for Camping:

RV Solar Panels
RV Camping with Solar Chargers
Boats and Solar Panels

The Brunton Solar Charger

2007-12-28T16:53:00.000-08:00

The Brunton Solar Charger

See the following for a description of the Brunton Solar Charger (a popular solar charger line containing versions strong enough to charge laptops and notebook computers):

Brunton Solar Charger

Solio Charger - The Portable Solar Battery Charger

2007-12-15T14:30:00.000-08:00

The Solio Charger

A Portable Solar Battery Charger

At the following link you will find a simple explanation of how a Solio Charger works and what it is.

Solio Charger

Solar Powered Power Inverters - Key To Solar Power Electricity

2007-10-21T09:18:00.000-07:00

By Adrian Whittle

As more interest grows in using renewable energy sources rather than traditional fossil fuels, the popularity of solar power as a source of electricity has grown. Despite the predictions of global warming linked by reliance on fossil fuels, it seems that it is the cost of solar power over traditional grid electricity that is making it popular. In California for example, where the climate is ideal for solar power, it is cheaper to create solar power electricity than buy it from a utility company. However, most people don't like the responsibility of generating their own electricity or simply do not know enough about it to consider it as a viable option. This article will cover creating electricity from solar power, with particular reference to the solar powered power inverters.

Solar power for electricity is created using photovoltaic technology. These are the solar panels that you see on roof tops. A solar panel is an array of solar cells that use photovoltaic technology to convert direct sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity. A solar cell is made of silicon dioxide and the reaction of photons with the silicon dioxide causes an electron to move in the silicon dioxide. This is the principal behind creating direct current. As each cell is lined up in series the DC current will flow from one cell to the next.

Direct current is good for many appliances but most homes use alternating current (AC). Alternating current is also more efficient for moving electricity so it is used by utility companies. Thus a solar powered power inverter is placed in between the solar panels and the power supply to the house with the task of converting DC to AC. It makes the electricity usable in the home.

While the solar power inverter is primarily for translating DC power into AC power, there is another type that is called a grid interactive. These types of inverters are generally used when the system is stilled hooked to the grid. These type of systems are the easiest to install as the utility company will do the installation. You are effectively becoming a mini power station for the company. Any electricity you create is sent to the utility company and this energy is credited to you the next time your electricity bill is due. The grid interactive solar power inverter handles the process of converting to AC and then sending the electricity to the utility company.

The solar power inverter may look rather innocuous at first glance, however inside, its inner workings have to handle quite a bit. An inverter for a regular suburban home has to deal with a number of fluctuations of energy, from the use of one light to a bigger surge of energy to turn on a major appliance.

Within confining limitations, the solar power inverter has to regulate the power output to ensure that there is little energy loss. Depending on the inverter you purchase, some even supply backup battery charges while feeding the leftover power back into the solar grid.

There are quite a few things that you need to take into account when you choose a solar power inverter. Power quality, efficiency, the ability to handle surges and idling loads of energy should all be taken into account. These will be explained on the specification sheets of a solar powered power inverter. Getting solar power in your home is a learning process. You can start with a small system that is shared with the utility company. As you get more experience of your own energy needs and how the systems works you will be able to make better and informed decisions on future expansion of the system.

Solar power can be applied to many house and garden products. In recent years the cost of these appliances have become very affordable and saved money on energy bills. Learn more about solar powered appliances at http://www.solarpowerappliances.com The site has features on the solar power attic vent, the outdoor power solar light, solar ovens and more solar powered applications. Adrian Whittle writes about using solar power and appliances that can utilize renewable energy sources.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adrian_Whittle

Portable Solar Power Covers Your Energy Needs

2007-10-07T08:44:00.000-07:00

By Willhelm Williams

The technology that harnesses solar power has increased significantly in the recent past. The usual sources of energy have become more expensive and more vulnerable lately so the need for alternative sources of energy is great. Solar energy is a renewable source of energy that can be harvested more cheaply employing proper technology. It is for this reason that the use of solar energy has become more popular through the years. The development of portable solar power is a welcome addition for those in need of energy and wanted to tap into this type of alternative source for comfort.

Companies have developed portable solar power that is now being used by different consumers who must have mobility. These groups include the military, the government, educational institutions and special types of businesses. The designs have evolved and simplified so these portable solar power sources can be used by people without extensive training or expertise.

Portable solar power units have become good investments because of the relatively inexpensive nature of solar energy. They have already been used for many varied activities including communications, emergency power, and many other uses.

Beneficiaries of Portable Solar Power Units

These portable solar power units add great mobility and convenience to the groups and individuals that use them:

• Military units use portable solar power units no matter where in the world they are in need of power. The military uses power for operations, medical facilities and the necessary amenities of the members. These portable solar power units can be used for many of these needs and then some. They not only provided reliable power, but they also proved to bring huge savings in the energy budget of the military.

• Educational institutions have many different activities with a great diversity of people that could use portable solar power units. These units can be used for numerous activities in many different areas on a large campus. These units also save money for educational institutions. Instead of spending so much on energy use, administration of these institutions could allocate the funds for projects and other more important undertakings.

• Businesses can also use these units for greater mobility in the many activities that they sponsor. Likewise, portable solar power is good for business in a sense that it lowers cost for use of power and makes for a bigger profit in the long run, not to mention the ease and convenience it provides.

The many new advances in solar power technology have provided benefits to a host of companies and organizations. Solar power is becoming more economical and affordable which in turn is increasing the demand for solar powered products. Potable solar power products provides for your energy needs in many different locations and environments. All the while providing safe, clean and quiet electricity production and saving you money each time you use it.

For more information on home solar power try visiting http://www.homesolarpowerguide.com, a popular solar power website that offers tips, advice and resources including information on combination solar wind power, rv solar power, do it yourself solar power and solar power generation.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Willhelm_Williams

Portable Solar Energy

2007-05-19T01:23:00.000-07:00

Portable Solar Power

By Zack Lim

Solar energy is a clean and efficient for of energy. The demand for it is greater than the supply. The cost of supplying electricity to remote locations is expensive and time consuming. Solar power is an excellent alternative. Portable solar power has been referred to as packaging sunlight. The concept is using an adapter to allow you to use solar power that has been accumulated during times when you do not have enough solar energy. They are mainly used at night.

Battery chargers with solar power are very popular. They simply plug into your cigarette lighter and charge your car in minutes. On a larger scale you can purchase portable generators that will allow you to use energy produced by sunlight when sunlight is not available. These power sources are used by corporations, small businesses, and individuals. They are used to supply power to entire networks or simply to operate your DVD player. The type and size of generator you want to purchase will depend on your individual needs. Within the next three years, it is believed solar panels will be made that can supply power to cell phones as well. However, the cost of such phones is anticipated to be high because it is expensive to design that type of solar panel.

The internet offers information to compare portable solar power products and their uses. This information will be very useful in deciding what products will give you the best deal for your money. If you still have questions, a great resource is the Advanced Energy Group. It is a respected supplier of solar power and portable power systems throughout the United States. They offer quality products and consulting information about solar power options. They also have an excellent rating for their technical support to customers.

While some remain skeptical about the use of solar power, it really does make sense. The portable solar power devices available at reasonable costs make it even more efficient, safe, and worth while to do for the environment. As the solar power industry continues to grow, expect to see new and better portable devices available on the market.

Zack is the owner of http://www.solar-power-infor.blogspot.com/ providing quality free information on solar power. For more free report and article, click http://www.solar-power-infor.blogspot.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Zack_Lim

Tea Robot

2007-05-05T12:21:00.000-07:00

Tea Robot?

I know this isn't directly related to portable solar power - but a tea robot? This is at least related to technology!

I wouldn't be able to fit one in my room, that's for sure. But I do wonder if one day these will also use portable solar power! Maybe they will come with us on hiking trips!

Portable Solar Energy Power During an Emergency

2007-05-04T16:17:00.000-07:00

During an Emergency Portable Solar Energy Power Station Comes in
Handy

Wilhelm Williams

For years now, the military has been using a portable solar energy power station to provide energy for their mobile units. Recently, these invaluable systems have become available for
civilian use for camping or in the event of emergencies. Being able to supply electricity during power shortages, typical in emergencies, is a real lifesaver and an aid towards recovery efforts.

The size of the portable solar energy power station needed depends on the situation and the amount of power that is required. A small unit can be used to supply light to an area.
If the need is to supply enough power for refrigeration, lights and to drive water pumps, a larger portable solar energy power station will be required. They could provide anywhere from 240
watts all the way up to several thousand watts of power. The only drawback is that the bigger the unit, the bigger the battery pack required.

It is usually quick and easy to set up portable solar energy power stations. It is best to use different units of different sizes to perform different functions. For instance, one unit may
be established to provide electricity for lighting. Another larger unit can be used to supply power for refrigeration while a still larger unit can be set up to power water pumps in the event of major overflow.

Portability is Inversely Proportional to the Size of the Battery Pack

The solar panels charge the battery pack during the day. Even while portable solar power station is being used the solar panels are charging the batteries and providing electricity to
power electrical devices. Without the battery pack, the portable power station would be useless at night. During the night or when it is cloudy the battery pack provides the source of electricity to power the lights, water pump, and fans.

It is All About the Batteries

The batteries are the main contributor to the weight of a portable solar energy power station. The other parts, such as the charge controller and solar panels add some weight, but not as much as the batteries do. In order to power more devices the portable power station will require a larger battery pack. Small portable solar power units come with a small battery pack and will power a light or radio for a few hours. Larger more powerful portable solar power units are mounted on a trailer with the battery pack and a mast where the solar panels are
mounted on.

It should be realized that regardless of the size and reliability of the portable solar energy power station, they will never work without sunshine. There may be enough power remaining in the batteries once the sun goes down to operate some devices or equipment, but without sunlight, once the batteries are discharged, you will have to wait until daylight to restore power. Still, it helps to have a portable gadget at the side which comes handy in times of emergency.

About the author:
For more information on solar power try visiting www.homesolarpowerguide.com, a popular solar power website that offers tips, advice and resources including information on combination solar wind power, rv solar power, do it yourself solar power and solar power generation.

Links to Suppliers of Portable Solar Power Systems

2007-04-04T03:43:00.000-07:00

Portable Solar Power

Suppliers of Portable Solar Power Systems and Devices

Click here to visit 3rliving.com (Go to this link and type "solar" into the search box)
Binoculars.com
Portable Solar at Amazon.com
Portable Solar at Amazon.co.uk
Portable Solar at Shopzilla
See what's new @ Geeks.com! (Go to this link and type "solar power" into the search box)
Portable Power
12 Volt Solar Power Pocket
25 Watt Portable Power Source

Portable Solar Power | Solar Chargers

Solar Power - Save Money with Solar Power

Solar Power - Build Your Own Solar Hot Water Heater

Solar Power - Save Money with Solar Power

The Popularity of Solar Chargers

Portable Solar Power | Solar Chargers

New Blog: Hypermiling

Our New Blog on Hypermiling

Global Warming Video

Portable Solar Power | Solar Chargers

Opti-Ups Solar Charger

Portable Solar Power | Solar Chargers

Solar Battery Chargers

Portable Solar Power | Solar Chargers

New Squidoo Lens on Solar Power

Portable Solar Power | Solar Chargers

Solar Tower | Global Warming

Portable Solar Power | Solar Chargers

Watch Solar Power Burning a Brick

Portable Solar Power | Solar Chargers

Global Warming

Portable Solar Power | Solar Chargers

Solar Heating, Solar Thermal, and Solar Hot Water Systems

Solar Power

Power Your Laptop with Solar Energy

Solio Solar battery charger

Go Solar

New Article: Go Solar

Solar Chargers for RVs, Boats, and Camping

Solar Chargers | RVs, Boats, and Camping

The Brunton Solar Charger

The Brunton Solar Charger

Solio Charger - The Portable Solar Battery Charger

The Solio Charger

A Portable Solar Battery Charger

Solar Powered Power Inverters - Key To Solar Power Electricity

Portable Solar Power Covers Your Energy Needs

Portable Solar Energy

Portable Solar Power

By Zack Lim

Tea Robot

Tea Robot?

Portable Solar Energy Power During an Emergency

During an Emergency Portable Solar Energy Power Station Comes inHandy

Wilhelm Williams

Links to Suppliers of Portable Solar Power Systems

Portable Solar Power

Suppliers of Portable Solar Power Systems and Devices

During an Emergency Portable Solar Energy Power Station Comes in
Handy