Alternative Energy HQ solar power for homes, wind energy, and bio fuel issues
I love learning about new energy alternatives that become available more and more each day. I have found do-it-yourself kits where an exercise bike can power a small electronic item. I have witnessed potatoes and citrus fruits charge USB MP3 players. I have even found wind-power generators that you can be attached to you apartment’s balcony to power your home PC. But the one thing that has always fascinated me was the uses of solar power for the home.
The two main uses of solar power are of course to power the entire house, and heat water for the home. But this article is not going to discuss those topics. No, instead we’re going to talk about some creative ways actual people are using solar power for the homes they live in.
The Cell Phone
One creative way I have seen was the use of a small solar panel used to charge the person’s cell phone. Now I think I can relate to this one: You are out getting some errands done when your cell phone beeps – it is warning you that the battery is low. You know that you are expecting an important call, but you don’t have the time to drive all the way home just to plug in the phone. And your vehicle didn’t come equipped with a lighter, so… Typically you would be in a bad situation. But not so when you have the solar-powered charger. Just place the solar panel on your shoulder with a strap, pocket the phone, and finish what you are doing. When you get back to the car, the panel will face the window and continue to charge the cell phone – handy and a life saver.
Night Light
Another handy home usage for smaller solar panels is the solar-powered night light. This item you attach to the window, the panel facing the sun. When the sun goes down, the power is stored until the switch is flipped. Then, it is a soft light in the night for scared little ones. This item can also be used to power an alarm clock every night, so that if a power outage occurs, you don’t wake up late. Another time saver. I like it that you can also power a small portable radio so you can listen to your favorite station without the need for new batteries or a power cord.
Battery Charger
Finally, there is the solar-powered battery charger. Forget having to search all over the house hoping to find a useful battery. Just place some rechargeable batteries into the charger, then place in direct sunlight. Soon enough you will have the power you seek to use your electronic entertainment devices. This is great for both at home and on the go – especially for those who use digital cameras a lot. These devices always eat up battery power quickly, so being able to charge a few while you use some others is always a wise choice.
So whatever small needs that may arise, solar power for the home may be a great alternative for you as well. And who knows, maybe one day you too may own the larger panels to power your entire house.
