Pocket-size solar power

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Pocket-size solar power

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  uploaded by WaterRabbit | add comment

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  uploaded by WaterRabbit | add comment

People capture only a tiny fraction of the energy the sun produces every day--1/10,000 of its output,
according to NASA. Solar panels on your roof can cut down your power
consumption. But even with government incentives, they typically take
years to make up the initial upfront cost. What about small-scale
solar? Can the sunlight on your windowsill make a dent in your energy
bill and help the planet?

The answer is yes. There are several solar-powered electronic
rechargers for your cell phone, iPod or laptop. And for the
culinary-curious, solar ovens can replace polluting charcoal briquets
on the barbeque. That's not to mention solar fans, lights, radios and
backpacks.

Solar Style sells a couple of solar
chargers. It offers a $55.99 kit that includes adapters to different
cell phones but also works with digital cameras, game machines and
digital music players. A full charge in the sun--either indoor or
outdoor--takes between six and eight hours. A charge from an outlet
takes four to five hours.