Solar Power

We've all seen huge arrays of solar panels. They look like mirrors scattered about by some giant. And they're usually tied down pretty well to a house or the ground. Not exactly what you want to take camping with you, are they?

As interest in alternative power has increased, so have the applications for that power. And as solar cells are constructed of lighter materials and the chips themselves become more efficient, many new options have emerged. One of those is the folding solar panel.

Folding solar panels have been used for years on the space shuttle. Once in orbit, the very large panels are opened and supply power to the orbiting shuttle. You, however, are probably considering something a bit smaller.

There are actually two varieties of "folding" solar panel for personal or business use. Some are built very much like a suitcase or clamshell cell phone, just larger. The photovoltaic cells face the inside when folded, protecting the most important part of the array.

Many have a frame of metal, typically aluminum to help keep the weight down. Depending on size, some also come with carrying bags. Smaller models can even fold up small enough to fit in your glove box.

Another version is constructed by sewing small solar cells to some kind of fabric. The fabric can then be folded or rolled and carried with you. The solar cells themselves are very thin and light, and of course the fabric weighs very little. Folding (or rolling) solar panels are the perfect thing to take with you when you want portable energy for use not only off the grid, but off the road or trail as well.

Folding solar panels are outstanding for applications like charging batteries or electronic devices, or taking power with you while camping, hiking, or out enjoying nature. They also work well for people who need to work in the field, like surveyors, or anyone else using radios or GPS gear in remote locations.

Larger models, while still portable, can provide enough power to trickle charge batteries on your snowmobile or ATV at a remote cabin, or keep remote sensor equipment functioning for research stations.

What makes folding or rolling solar panels possible is the wafer-thin solar cells that are being produced today. They can be attached to lightweight metal or even fabric. Work is currently being done on a power-generating fabric that could further transform the portable power market. Instead of carrying power with you, you would just wear it!

Solar technology, especially the portable kind, can seem expensive. But consider the energy savings you'll enjoy, and also the fact that these devices are designed to provide years of service. These smaller devices are also wonderful ways for someone to try out solar power and learn the ins and outs of the system before applying it on a whole-house scale.