Electronic devices like cell phones, cameras, mP3 players and computers require a lot of power to recharge.  Using solar panels is becoming a more mainstream way to keep charged up without the need for an electrical outlet.

Portable Solar Power to Recharge Devices

Today, you can find portable solar panel devices to recharge electrical gadgets using ultraviolet light.  And the newest version of portable solar panels is flexible solar power using thin film solar technology.

Here are two new products for portable solar panels that use flexible solar power:

1.  SolarRoll is comprised of PV (photovoltaic) cells and can be rolled and carried in a small backpack. It produces up to 14W of electricity for recharging small devices like cell phones and digital cameras.  SolarRoll is useful for people who spend a lot of time outside, including fishers, hunters, hikers and more. The device is also weather proof, and UV transparent. It costs in a range of $199-$479.

2.  Suntrica is another flexible device that uses solar energy for recharging gadgets.   It is so convenient, you can fit it into your pocket.  The thin film solar technology absorbs UV light and converts it into solar energy to recharge portable devices.

Do you use portable solar panels and/or flexible solar power to recharge mobile devices?  Let us know in the comments below!

Use the solar strap to keep your devices charged on the go

We have blogged about solar backpacks, solar handbags, and other portable solar power gadgets.  All of them are effective, but the price point can vary.

What if you just want to help boost the power of your portable devices without having to lug about an expensive new bag?  It may be time for a solar strap.  Shown in the photo to the left, this relatively small solar panel can be worn while you enjoy the great outdoors.  When you want to make a call, take a photo or listen to your MP3, you’ll always have power no matter where you are.

The Solar Strap is easy to wear and unbelievably lightweight.  Its compatible with any device that uses a 5-volt charging voltag.  Simply expose the solar panels to UV light, and the Solar Strap will recharge as you bicycle, hike, or even simply take a walk across campus.

According to the website:

The energy is stored in a light-weight battery of 3.7 Wh capacity. You can operate this portable and flexible gadget in a temperature ranging from 0° to 50° Celsius. You can fold the SolarStrap to make it even more portable. When completely open, it is 290 x 97 x 16 mm in size and is 144 x 97 x 25 mm in size when folded. It has an AC charger input capacity of 5.0 – 6.0 V DC and output charge of 5.5 VDC, 800 mA and it weighs around 60 g. SolarStrap Portable charger available at Suntrica.

If you want to get one of these cool solar gadgets as a green holiday gift, check out the Suntrica website, which will direct you to local retailers.