This is an update on my personal solar energy exploration. When the weather was warmer I have used a solar panel to power much of the writing I did in a gazebo located next to our house. I explain the project in previous posts (description, power saved).
While it is now too cold for me to work outside without running a space heater. I decided that I could continue to use the solar panel and just transfer power to my devices using a portable battery pack. This is not a very efficient system, but it works and keeps the project going.
I have always wondered how those with solar power deal with the accumulation of snow on their roof panels. I can’t say I know, but the sun does penetrate a thin layer of ice. Laptops and tablets don’t use much power. There must be some variant of this setup that would make a great classroom project.
