Inflatable Solar Panels that fit in a Backpack
A British company by the name of IDC has announced it’s about to release a new eco gadget, a solar panel product designed to replace hot water tanks. The SolarStore product is designed to heat up to 3 full tanks of water a day by harnessing heat energy from the sun and storing that warmth in the water within the inflated solar panels.
The SolarStone panels can be stored in a backpack and inflate into a 2 metre square solar panel. They have been designed with developing countries in mind as a cheap method of heating water, but also have their place in homes in developed countries.
Heating systems in homes are often very power-hungry and contribute to a significant percentage of the energy bills. At a cost of £100 (GBP, roughly $200 US), they pay for themselves within 6 to 12 months, compared to up to 20 years with existing solar installations.
IDC are looking for retailers of the SolarStore panels, so expect to see them hit the shops soon!
Source: Environmental Graffiti
Your Comments
We use a smaller version when we go camping on our boat. I forget the size (2-3 gallons), but it is enough for a quick shower or two. On a hot day it is possible to get the water hot enough to burn you!
Yeah, the lack of heat control is an interesting one. It’s almost as if you need a cold water tank so that you can adjust the temperature!