The sun is the most efficient source of energy everywhere if it is correctly utilized. It is an endless renewable energy source that is like none other. This is why we have solar-powered products currently in use, including watches, calculators and light sources. Solar technology is far from being the main source of power for the majority devices we use today but it could be used to charge the batteries in these gadgets. These are referred to as rechargeable batteries that are powered by sunlight.
What exactly is a solar power charger?
The name says it all These are battery chargers run by sunlight. Nearly every modern gadget you could imagine (laptops cellphones, laptops, PDAs MP3 players, digital cameras, iPods etc.) are rechargeable with these chargers.
Today, these chargers are connected to other items including automobiles and backpacks. Additionally, there are a variety of voltages available making it easy to buy the chargers that best meet our requirements.
How do they function?
The battery chargers are made up of solar panels comprised by photovoltaic (PV) cells that produce electricity by absorbing the light from the sun. When sunlight’s photons hit the solar panels they are absorbed into the PV cells. The cells are composed of semiconducting material like silicon. Two types of silicon can be used , namely crystalline as well as Amorphous, the latter which is more robust and flexible. It is also more cost-effective. The absorbed light particles are transformed into electrons.
A chemical reaction takes place in batteries that transfers electrons into the electronic circuits inside our devices. In this process, the leftover particles become less active and eventually stop the production of electrons. This discharge cycle is neutralized with the current generated by solar panels, where protons are drawn towards the battery’s cells through the attraction of electrons.
Most solar-powered battery chargers come with 12 volts of capacities but there are also other voltages like 36V, 24V, and the list goes on. There are also chargers for batteries with a voltage as low as 3V which can be used to charge a 6 volt NiCad battery using a mobile phone. Before purchasing one, ensure that you conduct extensive research about what you’ll need, and don’t hesitate to consult a professional.
It could be difficult to comprehend, but knowing the mechanism behind it can be the very first thing in being able to appreciate it.
What are the reasons to use this particular type or battery charger?
Solar-powered battery chargers are an excellent alternative to traditional battery chargers. Here are a few reasons:
It is powered by a clean and renewable source of energy: the sun.
Cost-efficient
Reduce the cost of non-rechargeable battery when you’re using any
Conserve electricity use and its associated costs
If any, the smallest expenses for maintenance
A reliable alternative energy source in the event that electricity is not available
When the supply of power has been shut off, it will be difficult to turn it back on.
If you live in a remote area (rugged mountains or isolated islands.)
Portability
If you travel frequently, or are going camping in the wild There is no better way to charge your devices that solar powered battery chargers.
Durability
Solar-powered battery chargers can be most efficient on a sunny, bright day, however, they can work in colder temperatures. Some of them are even waterproof.
Convenience
Certain solar battery chargers feature an internal battery capable of conserving energy. In the event that you have to charge your electronic device and don’t have the time or space to utilize the sun’s rays to draw energy, the energy stored within the battery can be used to charge the device.
The most common solar battery chargers
Automotive solar trickle chargers
The chargers are specifically designed for vehicles. the chargers are able to be put on the dashboard, and connected directly onto the ignition connector that will charge the battery of your car although it will take a while.
They don’t typically come with a sufficient solar panel to fully charge a car battery . However, it’s enough to make up for the energy used by all-day-all-night features in the car, like the clock.
Clamshell solar chargers
These solar panels have been placed inside a foldable case for ease of use and portability.
It is able to come with several adaptors and plugs making it easy to work with various kinds of devices.
Certain batteries are designed to connect to the device, while others are specifically designed to charge batteries on their own and then easily swap them out.
Folding solar chargers
Utilizing thin-film solar cells with flexible properties This charger is able to be rolled into a compact size for transportability, and then can be opened when it is in use to provide a greater coverage of the entire surface.
Solar bags
Integrating these revolutionary solar cells into bags of every kind (backpacks laptop bags, backpacks, briefcases, etc.) is pure genius. They can be charged by the devices they’re made to carry, which makes them ideal for those who travel on the go.
Some have even built-in pouches that charge AA or AAA batteries.
Do these solar battery chargers totally replace the chargers we’re making use of? If you’re asking me, I’d be the first to say no.
Our devices are currently consuming much more energy than their chargers can take on. The time is precious and many people don’t have enough patience to sit and stand in line for the charging process to finish. But, as with any other breakthrough technology, you must give it the chance to improve and develop, and the best method to achieve that is to allow consumers to use it and share their opinions.
If hybrid vehicles are available There are hybrid chargers. Hybrid technology is the solution to bridge gaps between the things we’ve been accustomed to and what we need to be used to. Even if it comes with an expensive price tag attached to it the benefits are obvious.
