I love working outside. I keep the range of my WiFi network just large enough that I can be online and somewhat productive while enjoying the summer sun. Unfortunately, I can work outside for just a bit over an hour thanks to my laptop battery crapping out. Running an extension cord out the the deck defeats the purpose of feeling free; what I need is a solar powered umbrella that can charge my laptop, iPod, or iPhone while I chill outside and pretend to be productive.

This summer, a company called Sky Shades will give me what I want - a solar powered umbrella that can use the sun it blocks to charge my gadgets while I work outside. The canopy of the umbrella is made from a a lightweight and flexible solar panel called Power Plastic that is manufactured by solar cell company Konarka. The energy captured by the Power Plastic is then stored inside the stem of the Powerbrella, and is accessible through outlets at the bottom of the umbrella. These devices have been field tested throughout Florida, and they are reported to work wonderfully.

While I would love to have one at my house, I doubt it will become a reality. Imagine how these devices could improve WiFi experiences at coffee shops, student centers, and schools. The potential freedom these Powerbrellas will allow is fantastic. If these things take off, imagine the other applications of PowerPlastic. Tents for camping, car canopy's, or even passive awnings and other housing structures could be turned into energy collecting devices. All in all, this is a pretty sweet application of a useful technology.

via Treehugger.com