Five Ways to Be Empowered by the Sun

Ever since human beings figured out the sun was a power source we have been trying to figure out the best way to harness it's great power into energy that is both cost effective and good for the environment. With the effects of global warming and high and unstable fuel prices there is no time like the present to revisit the good old sun as a major contributor to all the little electronic conveniences of which we've become accustomed.

1. Solar Ovens and Stoves.There are several websites that give directions on making solar ovens and stoves, and some that sell these products. I remember camping in sixth grade and using a form of solar oven to make cookies. Now people are taking these off the campsite and into the backyard. Solar ovens cook food much slower than traditional ovens-- it's closer to the speed of a crock pot. They are made with foil, mylar, mirrors and other reflective materials. Unfortunately, they still depend on direct sunlight to operate, so that sudden dark cloud over the house can really put a damper on things in more ways than one.
2. Solar Calculators. Raise your hand if you ever had one of these? I think if I dug around long enough I could find evidence of someone who had a solar abacus. A standard, nongraphing calculator really doesn't need a lot of power, so this is the perfect opportunity to save money on a calculator. It also isn't dependent on the actual sun -- it will run on artificial light if need be. It's also a great way to teach a child about the potential of utilizing the sun to help the earth.
3. Solar Watches. When I plugged this into the search engine I did expect to find such high brow class. I went to http://www.bluedial.com/solar-watch.htm and found a full aray of name brand fancy watches starting at around $100. I did notice that these are all watches with hands-- rather than the digital variety, but they are very nice. Definetely something to show off.
4. Solar Lights and Lanterns. This is definitely one for my wish list. A search for "solar lamps" on extag.com yeilds over 400 hits, with lamps for indoors and outdoors. These lamps have a small solar panel that charges a battery, so when you don't have access to the sunthet are still ready to go. Prices are reasonable as well, starting at around $20, they're pretty comparable to a corded lamp with no cords to hide or jack up your electric bill. For around $50 you can purchase a Bogolight-- or more accurately, you can purchase two. These sturdy lights provide varying levels of illumination, and can be used either as evening light or as emergency light in the event of a storm. The other light goes to a third world nation, that would otherwise use more expensive and less environmentally friendly kerosene.
5. Solar Crank Radios. Here's an item that's great for those, "just in case" situation -- and with natural disasters striking all over, it never hurts to be prepared.These are available from camping stores and in various online stores starting at about $25, and have a crank to turn for extra power if the need arises. These aren't going to replace your sound system, but they can help you stay informed in a pinch.

So while installing giant solar panels and converting your home into an earth friendly shrine might not be in your budget, there are still ways you can utilize the sun that come with only a small about of investment, and a few hours of scaling back can add up to a huge difference in your power bills over time, and help the environment at the same time.

www.target.com
www.nextag.com
www.bogolight.com
www.bluedial.com