If you thought that solar energy stopped at battery storage and powering your homes, then you’re in for a sunny surprise! Some companies are taking solar energy even further and creating brilliant solar products that are lighting the way to a brighter future.

There are a number of new and exciting solar products being created, here are a few of our favourites:

Sounds of Sunshine – Solar Radio

If a tornado were to occur, one company that can help you get prepared is Running Snail. Running Snail is a manufacturer of Emergency Radio, NOAA Weather Radios, and solar hand crank radios. With Running Snail radios you’ll be prepared with this AM/FM & NOAA weather alert radio, broadcast emergency weather alerts for your area such as hurricanes, tornadoes and severe storms. If there isn’t much sun in your area during a time of need, not to worry. The radio can be charged in three other ways: a hand crank, microUSB or AAA batteries.

MD-090 Solar Crank NOAA Weather Radio. Image courtesy of Running Snail

The Sun on Your Shoulders – Solar Backpack

ECEEN is a high-tech brand that specializes in producing solar charged products. They are most popular for their Solar Charger Backpacks. With ECEEN weather-proof hiking backpacks, you’ll have access to free unlimited power on the go, wherever you are. The backpack isn’t a battery storage unit but it is a powerful charger. The solar panel can be detached from the bag as well and includes a USB port for easier access. Made of nylon and polyester, this backpack is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts with plenty of pockets & compartments; use it when backpacking, trekking, mountaineering, fishing or biking.

Solar Backpack with 7 Watts Solar Panel. Image courtesy of ECEEN

A Pocket full of Sunshine – Solar Fashion

Vollebak has developed an exciting new product. The Solar Charged Jacket, which was named one of TIME magazine’s Best Inventions of 2018. That’s right, a jacket that can be instantly charged by any light source and glows brightly in the dark! Every detail of the jacket has been carefully welded and laser cut. It is made with a translucent mesh that is not only waterproof, stretchy and breathable, it is also engineered with a phosphorescent compound. This compound immediately absorbs any light it comes in contact with and emits it over a period of time. Apart from the zipper, the whole jacket emits light, even the buttons!

Solar Charged Jacket. Image courtesy of Vollebak

Driving with the Sun – Solar Car

Earlier this year Hyundai, debuted their 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, the first car that uses a solar panel roof. The solar energy collected would be used to recharge the car’s battery and prevent unnecessary battery discharge. This car has the same luxurious design as gas-only models, you would hardly notice the difference. The only way to distinguish the hybrid from the others is the BlueDrive badges on the front. According to Hyundai, as long as the car is charged daily for 6 hours, the solar panel roof can extend the Sonata Hybrid’s travel distance by an extra 1,300 km!

2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. Image courtesy of Motortrend

The great thing about all these initiatives is that they are sparking inspiration on how we can find other creative ways to take advantage of solar energy. Let’s keep shining a light on these great solar innovations as we look forward to the new solar offerings to come.

For more news on environmentally-friendly technology and brighter tomorrow, stay tuned to The Electric Blog!