Putting the Juice at the Use

Petra Solar designs and manufactures the first smart grid interactive solar electric system specifically designed for installation on utility distribution poles, Utility Grade SunWave™ UP Series. The systems, which operate as individual power generation stations, combine solar power, smart grid and power management technologies to enable utilities to improve power quality and grid management. Petra Solar’s systems operate on streetlight and utility poles, connecting directly to the grid’s secondary voltage lines at the pole.

Last July the N.J. Board of Public Utilities approved a contract between Petra Solar and New Jersey’s largest utility, PSE&G, to generate 40MW of power through SunWave solar systems installed on up to 200,000 poles in New Jersey. The intelligent photovoltaic solar units are currently being installed throughout the state’s six largest cities and 300 suburban communities and will be running on the AT&T wireless network. For more information see Petra Solar.

Introducing the “Personal Power Center”

Horizon Fuel Cell Technologies recently announced the launch of a disruptive pocket-size fuel cell power plant targeting portable consumer electronics markets. Named MiniPak, this is the first of several Horizon portable fuel cell power products of varying size and fuel storage technologies to be released commercially over the next months and years.

Starting sales at $99, the MiniPak breaks the cost barrier traditionally associated to most fuel cell devices, making it the first affordable and refillable fuel cell product to enter the consumer portable electronics market. A higher production levels, prices are expected to drop to $29, with extra fuel cartridges sold at prices similar to disposable alkaline batteries, and refilling costs not exceeding a few cents.

It is a palm-size universal portable power charger and power extender for ANY electronic device requiring up to 2W of power. Devices compatible with the MiniPak include cellphones, but also smartphones, gaming devices, GPS handhelds, small lighting devices and MP3 players. The MiniPAK device integrates a passive air-breathing fuel cell and a “solid-state” hydrogen storage unit. The MiniPak DC power output is 2W (5V, 400mA), delivered through standard micro-USB port and a multi-choice cable. The device is supplied with 2 refillable and ready to use solid state hydrogen cartridge.While a cartridge replacement and filling infrastructure develops, Horizon took the extra step to develop a home refueling system called “HydroFILL” – sold as a separate accessory for added convenience. The MiniPAK is positioned to address gaps in providing energy “on the go” to power-hungry device users, as well as a low cost energy storage option for emergency and long duration off-grid power users.

Charge Your Phone with your Bike

Nokia has announced a bike kit that allows users to charge their phones when cycling, according to the mobile phone manufacturer. Install the kit straight out of the packet, then you provide the power, so using your phone will have no environmental impact. You can even listen to music from your phone’s speakers as you cycle.

The kit consists of a charger and a dynamo, as well as a holder to secure the phone to the bike. The dynamo, a small electrical generator, similar to one used to power a bike light, uses the movement of the wheels to charge the handset through a standard 2 millimeter jack, which is found in most Nokia mobile phones, the company said. It starts charging when the bicycle speed is 4 mph or greater. To reach the same efficiency as the electrically powered Compact Charger AC-3, the cyclist has to pedal at 7.5 mph, according the Nokia specification sheet.

By using pedal power to charge mobile phones it allows users who have limited access to electricity the capability to charge their phones, and it also gives everyone the chance to be more environmentally responsible, according to the Nokia spokesperson. The bicycle charger kit will be available by the end of the year, and is expected to cost around $18.

NEXT GENERATION SOLAR BAG

The Juice Bag

Turn free sunlight into clean electricity without moving parts, heat or sound. This Juice Bag has and incredible 7 Watt flexible solar panel made up of 52 solar cells and represents the latest in flexible solar technology. And, while no small solar power device of this size puts out enough power to charge a laptop directly there is plenty enough to power your cell phone or small electronic device like a GPS or MP3 Player.

The Juice Bag comes with a built-in Car Lighter Adapter (CLA) socket – the same universal plug that is used in your car. Just plug in the adapter you would normally use in the car that is approved for your phone, PDA, MP3 player or other 12volt device. The moment sunlight falls on the Juice Bags solar panel, the bag generates electricity. It is that easy and simple to use!

The product can be used by travelers, students, relief workers and many others for whom the freedom of clean, everywhere free energy is important. Imagine going anywhere…anywhere…in the world and being able to keep your satellite phone, GPS Unit or digital camera charged and most importantly it is MADE IN THE USA.
You can buy it directly at the Reware Store.