NATIONAL REPORT—When your guests need to recharge their phones, tablets or even their e-scooters outside, finding a place to do so can be a challenge. To make outdoor charging seamless, several companies offer solar powered charging stations—in the form of furniture such as benches, tables, or charging poles. These can be ideal fits for common areas, employee break stations, golf courses, trailside, or even beach areas.
According to Vaughn Dietze, owner and founder of Solar Energy Systems LLC, solar powered charging stations can help elevate the guest experience, educate guests about solar, reduce a property’s energy consumption, showcase your dedication to environmental stewardship, encourage guests to spend more time in outdoor spaces—potentially increasing food and beverage or other revenue—and can also act as space for advertising for local businesses, bringing in additional dollars.
Solar charging stations come equipped with USB ports, can include wireless charging pads and WiFi, and incorporate storage batteries within their structure.
“A solar panel cell begins charging as soon as it is exposed to sunlight,” Dietze says. “However, the charging rate is influenced by factors such as the amount of sunlight available and any shading or obstructions that may hinder the solar panel’s exposure to sunlight. In general, it takes a few seconds for a solar panel cell to start generating electricity once sunlight reaches it. However, it may take additional time for the cell to reach its maximum charging capacity. The duration required to fully charge a battery using a solar panel cell depends on the battery’s capacity.”
Still Produce Power on Cloudy Days
Solar panels are designed to capture and convert the sun’s energy into usable electricity. On a cloudy day, a solar panel’s energy production can be reduced to approximately 10 to 25 percent of its typical power capacity. The exact percentage may vary based on the extent of cloud coverage.
Despite reduced energy production on cloudy days, solar panels can still generate power. This is because they utilize ultraviolet light, which is present even on cloudy days, to create electricity. Additionally, infrared light, lower in energy than visible light, is also present on cloudy and dark days and can be utilized for solar energy.
The charging time for a phone will depend on the charging method and the model of smartphone. When using a wireless charger, it can take up to 90 minutes to fully charge the device. When using USB ports, the charging speed of the battery is around 1 to 2 percent per minute. This also depends on whether the smartphone is in use or stand-by mode during the charging.
Dietze says the battery that comes with the charging furniture he sells is good for a 24-hour charge.
Many Creative Options
Each company has its own selection of solar powered stations. Solar Energy Systems sells a solar bench charging station that features accent LED lighting, bistro table, and patio table. With Solar Energy Systems’ furniture, one can recharge three mobile devices simultaneously. With the additional wireless charger one can add two additional USB charges.
Sun Charge Systems, Inc. offers five different solar charging options: a charging pole, job site pole, canopy charging bench, uptown charging bench, and bayside charging bench. In the case of the charging pole, there are five Rapid-Charge USB ports. Optional add-ons include banner hangers for identification or advertising, and wireless charging. The number of USB charging ports varies per product.
Kay Park Recreation offers a solar-powered fiberglass umbrella with optional table. The charging umbrella includes four standard USB ports. The company also offers a charging station that is not an umbrella but still fits into a table like an umbrella to provide portable device charging.
Glenn Hasek can be reached at greenlodgingnews@gmail.com.
