There has been a lot of misinformation floating around since BC Hydro announced changes to the BC Hydro Net Metering Program last spring. I’ve been reading articles and comments that the program has been killed. This is NOT the case.…
Disposable AA’s Are Costing You Plenty
It’s all too easy. Grab a package of Duracell or Energizer AA’s at the checkout. They’re only a few dollars. You need them for your radio or flashlight, and they say on the package that they’re good for 5-10 years.…
How “Green” Is Your Green Energy?
When it comes to green, renewable energy, solar PV tends to hold the high ground. More quiet than wind generators. More accessible than micro hydro. Just install your solar panels and sit back & read the good news every time…
Don’t Pass on Pass-Through Charging!
We’ve been promoting the concept of pass-through charging since the early days of portable solar equipment. Primarily with the onset of lithium battery packs. Lately, I’ve seen a lot of buzz about it, which thankfully means that the functionality is…
Unhappy With Your Power Bills?
Are you unhappy with your power bills? Would you like a clean, quiet way to reduce them while adding to your home’s value? You have come to the right place. I just finished 3 days of continuous talking at the Comox…
How Do I Use A USB Solar Panel?
A quick “How-To” for those new to portable solar… How do you use a USB solar panel or charger to keep your USB equipment & cameras running everywhere you go? Simple. Start by asking us what the best USB solar…
Portable Battery Banks – 3 Steps To Choosing Wisely
Did you see that great deal on that randomly-named USB battery pack on Amazon? Looks great doesn’t it? Massive storage. Connects to tablets & phones of all types. Charges fast. What else could you possibly want? As it turns out,…
Fall Planning For Solar In Spring
It’s October. The weather is changing here in Canada, and with a waning summer sun, it doesn’t really seem like the time to be discussing solar power. But in fact it is the best time to discuss solar and how…
Choosing The Best Solar Panel
Choosing the best solar panel is not simply a matter of getting the most watts for the cheapest price. Even if we could assume that all manufacturers produce equipment of equal quality, the old adage of “For every job, there…
Unlimited Pokemon Go Battery Life for your Phone
C/Net recently published an article outlining the power demands placed on an iPhone when playing Pokemon Go. Similar results can be expected on an Android device. While powering the phone for AR, GPS, camera, bright screen for daylight, and graphics processing,…
Solar Powered Laptop… Realities
Need a solar powered laptop? This article covers everything you need to know to take your laptop off-grid. Editor: Graham Morfitt, BSc (Physics) POP QUIZ Take a close look at this photo… See the problems? 1. The panel’s output voltage…
Solar Charging : Compact Cameras
This note is provided as a guide to those who want to solar power their compact digital camera while outdoors & away from household power. This encompasses cameras that use 3.6V or 3.7V lithium battery packs. Articles in this series…
Solar Charging dSLR Cameras
Solar charging dSLR cameras away from civilization? This article covers everything you need to know to take your laptop off-grid. Editor: Graham Morfitt, BSc (Physics) This note is provided as a guide to those who want to solar power their digital SLR…
