Sun Station: The Free Solar Charging Station

February 3rd, 2009 by Ariel Schwartz

Yesterday, we took a look at the RITI Printer— a nifty concept printer that uses coffee grounds for ink. But another entrant in the Core 77 Greener Gadgets Design Competition may be even more innovative: the Sun Station. Julene Aguirre-Bielschowsky has designed a piece of public furniture that doubles as a solar energy charging station.

The Sun Station is made up of concrete, teak wood, and stainless steel. It theoretically can provide 84 W of energy generated by monocrystalline solar cells. The cells are located 3 meters above ground for less shading and maximum efficiency, and energy is stored in a battery pack or grid-tied system under the Sun Station’s seat.

The device’s socket is protected by a transparent safety cover. A display that highlights the Sun Station’s energy use is located under the socket.

With 94 votes, the Sun Station is one of the most popular entrants in the Greener Gadgets competition— vote now if you want it to gain even more clout.

Photo Credit: Greener Gadgets Design Competition









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