Articles tagged with "solar-charging"
Chinese team develops sunlight-assisted lithium–sulfur battery
Researchers at Northwestern Polytechnical University in China have developed a sunlight-assisted lithium–sulfur battery that addresses key challenges in lithium–sulfur technology, notably the slow and inefficient sulfur chemistry. By integrating a flexible photoelectrode composed of polypyrrole-modified, nitrogen-doped titanium dioxide grown on carbon cloth, the battery uses light to accelerate sulfur redox reactions during charging. A polymer–TiO2 layer creates an internal electric field that effectively separates charges, reducing recombination and enhancing the use of visible light to drive chemical processes. This design enables near-theoretical energy storage performance, partial solar charging, and improved cycling stability. The new battery demonstrates significant performance improvements: the resistance to sulfur reactions (Tafel slope) decreases from 122 to 48 mV per decade, lithium sulfide nucleation time shortens from 3,600 to 3,010 seconds, and capacity increases by 17%. It can harvest energy both electrically and via sunlight, achieving a solar-to
energylithium-sulfur-batterysolar-chargingphotocatalysisbattery-technologyrenewable-energyenergy-storageBLUETTI Elite 10 Mini — Portable Power Station Review - CleanTechnica
The BLUETTI Elite 10 Mini is a compact, portable power station featuring a 200W output and 128Wh capacity, designed for easy transport and versatile use. Unlike larger, heavier models with wheels intended for home backup during extended outages, this lightweight device is ideal for on-the-go power needs such as charging laptops during travel, outdoor activities, or short power interruptions. It offers multiple outputs (1 AC and 5 DC), a fast 70-minute recharge, and supports various charging methods including AC, car, and solar panels. Its built-in LED light with multiple modes enhances its utility in emergencies. Equipped with a durable LiFePO₄ battery rated for over 3,000 cycles and more than 10 years of reliable use, the Elite 10 Mini also features a seamless 10ms UPS mode to prevent work interruptions, and smart app control via Bluetooth. Priced normally at $239, it was offered at a holiday discount of $129. The reviewer praises
energyportable-power-stationLiFePO4-batterysolar-chargingbackup-powersmart-app-controlclean-energyBLUETTI Elite 100 V2 Portable Power Station — CleanTechnica Tested - CleanTechnica
The BLUETTI Elite 100 V2 is a portable power station featuring a 1024Wh LiFePO4 battery known for its long lifespan (over 4,000 cycles to 80% capacity) and safety. It delivers 1800W continuous AC output with a 2700W surge capacity and includes multiple ports: 2 AC outlets, 4 USB-A, a 100W USB-C PD port, a 12V car port, and two DC 5521 ports. The unit supports rapid charging via Turbo AC (80% in 45 minutes) and up to 1000W solar input, doubling the solar charging capacity of its predecessor, the BLUETTI AC180. Weighing 25 pounds and occupying 17 liters, it is notably more compact and lighter than the AC180, improving portability. Additional features include Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring, a bright LCD screen, quiet operation (around 30dB), and
energyportable-power-stationLiFePO4-batterysolar-chargingBluetooth-connectivityWi-Fi-monitoringUPS-switchingDJI Power 2000 Portable Power Station - CleanTechnica Tested - CleanTechnica
The DJI Power 2000 Portable Power Station is a compact yet powerful energy storage device with a capacity of 2048 Wh, tested by CleanTechnica during a 4,500-mile camping trip across the U.S. Its design is notably compact and rectangular, making it easy to pack and carry without obstructing air vents, which helps prevent overheating. The unit offers versatile power options, including three 20-amp 120-volt AC plugs, one 30-amp TT-30 plug commonly used for RVs, multiple USB-C and USB-A ports, and two proprietary SDC ports for additional accessories like extra batteries, solar inputs, and rapid charging. It supports a maximum output of 3000 watts, allowing simultaneous operation of several appliances, and includes an app for iOS and Android to manage the device. In practical use, the Power 2000 performed reliably under various conditions, including powering an impact driver without issues and running multiple high-draw appliances such as an air conditioner
energyportable-power-stationbattery-storageDJIrenewable-energysolar-chargingpower-managementPHEV Sales Beat BEV Sales In South Africa For The First Time Ever - CleanTechnica
In the first half of 2025, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) outsold battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in South Africa for the first time, with 788 PHEVs sold compared to 570 BEVs. This marks a significant increase from 2024, when 737 PHEVs were sold—double the 368 units sold in 2023—though PHEVs still represent only 0.14% of total vehicle sales in the country. The surge in PHEV sales is largely attributed to new model introductions from Chinese manufacturers like Chery, Omoda, Jaecoo, and Haval. Chery alone accounted for 27% of PHEV sales in H1 2025, while BMW maintained a leading 48% market share. These newer PHEVs offer electric ranges exceeding 100 km, a notable improvement over older models with ranges below 40 km, making them more appealing to South African consumers, especially
energyplug-in-hybrid-electric-vehiclesPHEV-saleselectric-vehicle-marketrenewable-energysolar-chargingSouth-Africa-automotive-trendsWorld's first self-charging tender that harnesses sun's power debuts
Sunpower Yachts International has launched the Sunpower Solar-eJET 3.3m, the world’s first self-charging inflatable tender that harnesses solar power directly from a yacht’s integrated solar energy system. This innovative tender eliminates the need for conventional refueling or shore-based electrical power by connecting to the mothership’s solar array via a built-in charging port when stowed. Designed to complement Sunpower’s larger solar-electric yachts, the Solar-eJET creates a consistent, self-sufficient energy ecosystem, ensuring the tender’s battery is continuously topped up and ready for immediate use. The Solar-eJET features a 10 kWh lithium battery powering a 22 kW electric motor, equivalent to a 30-horsepower conventional engine, with a liquid-cooled brushless DC motor driving an advanced jet propulsion system. This system offers zero direct emissions, reduced noise, enhanced swimmer safety, and shallow-water operation without the risks of an exposed propeller. The tender’s hull is made from durable
energysolar-powerelectric-propulsionlithium-batterymarine-grade-aluminiumclean-marine-innovationsolar-chargingThe EcoFlow TRAIL Series: Lightweight Power For Life Off The Beaten Path - CleanTechnica
The EcoFlow TRAIL Series introduces lightweight, durable DC-only portable power stations designed specifically for outdoor enthusiasts who spend significant time off-grid. The series includes two models: the TRAIL 200 DC, weighing just over 4 pounds with 192 Wh capacity and 220 W output, and the larger TRAIL 300 DC, at around 5.7 pounds offering 288 Wh capacity, 300 W output, and a 140 W car outlet. Both units focus on powering essential gear such as lights, phones, cameras, and drones efficiently, without the added bulk of AC ports. These power stations feature multiple USB-A and USB-C ports for charging up to five devices simultaneously, with the TRAIL 300 DC also supporting solar charging up to 110 W, ideal for extended off-grid trips. Built for rugged outdoor use, the TRAIL Series incorporates five layers of protection against drops, dust, short circuits, and overheating, and although rated IP30, a waterproof carrying case will be
energyportable-power-stationsLiFePO4-batterysolar-chargingoutdoor-powerDC-power-outputEcoFlow-TRAIL-SeriesEssential Power Backup for Hurricane Season, Summer Camping & More - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica emphasizes the growing importance of reliable portable power stations during hurricane season and summer camping, highlighting their role in both emergency preparedness and recreational use. It categorizes portable power stations into four main use cases, providing tailored recommendations for each. For versatile, multi-use needs such as RV trips, overlanding, or home backup, the Elite 200 V2 is recommended due to its medium capacity (2,073.6Wh), quiet operation, fast charging, and compatibility with solar panels. This model offers a balance of portability and power, capable of running essential devices and appliances with a 2,600W output. For lighter, short-term power needs like summer camping or tailgates, the article suggests the compact Elite 100 V2, which delivers 1,024Wh capacity and 1,800W output in a smaller form factor. It supports a variety of devices including induction cooktops and portable AC units, with rapid solar recharging capabilities. For more heavy
energyportable-power-stationbackup-powersolar-chargingcamping-poweremergency-poweroff-grid-energyBluetti Elite 200 V2 Test & Review - CleanTechnica
The Bluetti Elite 200 V2 portable power station was rigorously tested and demonstrated strong performance and reliability in powering a variety of household devices and circuits. In initial tests, it charged from 54% to 75% in 30 minutes and successfully powered multiple devices including a hair dryer, drill, fan, and even a portable air conditioner connected through a 4-circuit manual transfer switch at a home. The system managed loads up to its rated maximum of 2,600W without issues, and when intentionally overloaded to 3,300W, it safely shut down and reset without damage. The unit is priced at $699 with a limited-time discount offer for CleanTechnica readers. Further testing showed the Elite 200 V2 could be fully charged from empty in under two hours using a wall outlet, and solar charging with two Bluetti solar panel arrays was effective despite fluctuations due to cloud cover, reaching full charge in about 3.5 hours. The power station handled high-d
energyportable-power-stationsolar-chargingbattery-technologyhome-energy-backuprenewable-energypower-managementBLUETTI Shrinks Its Signature 1kWh Portable Power Station to New Elite 100 V2 - CleanTechnica
BLUETTI has introduced the Elite 100 V2, a compact and lightweight (25 lb) portable power station with a 1,024Wh capacity, designed to balance portability and power for activities like camping, van life, and short blackouts. Compared to its predecessor, it is 35% smaller and 30% lighter while delivering 1,800W continuous and 3,600W peak AC power through 11 output ports, including multiple AC outlets, USB-C, USB-A, car socket, and new high-wattage USB-C and DC ports. This makes it suitable for powering laptops, fans, coolers, and essential home devices. The Elite 100 V2 supports fast recharging with up to 1,000W solar input and 1,200W AC input, significantly reducing charge times. It also offers an optional 560W car charging feature, ideal for road trips and off-grid living. Featuring upgraded LiFePO₄ battery cells rated
energyportable-power-stationsolar-chargingLiFePO4-batteryclean-energyoff-grid-powerBLUETTI-Elite-100-V2The startups rolling out of Europe’s early-stage micromobility scene
The European early-stage micromobility sector is evolving from its earlier chaotic growth phase marked by aggressive scaling and large venture capital inflows, which have since shifted toward more sustainable business models amid tighter funding. At the recent Micromobility Europe conference in Brussels, several startups showcased innovations addressing key industry gaps such as fleet management, parking, and charging infrastructure, alongside new vehicle designs tailored to user needs. Among these startups, UK-based Convoy offers a clip-on cargo conversion kit for bikes and e-bikes that can carry up to two small children, aiming to make e-cargo bikes lighter, more affordable, and user-friendly for parents. Founded in 2023 by a team with diverse backgrounds including femtech and e-bikes, Convoy’s €2,200 attachment features a 250-watt motor and rear-wheel steering, with plans to expand beyond Europe to Japan and the U.S. Germany’s Azora Charge, founded by siblings Caroline and Johannes Goeckel, is developing
IoTenergye-bikesmicromobilitysolar-chargingsmart-parkingsustainable-transportationThe Bluetti AC60 Is On Sale For Just $269: Get A Pro-Grade Power Station At A Budget Price
energypower-stationportable-powersolar-chargingoutdoor-gearemergency-preparednessbattery-technology