Hybrid power generation systems can combine solar, wind, battery and generator power to keep your island hideaway running around the clock and around the year. In many parts of the world, the peak operating conditions for solar and wind power occur at different times of the day or even during different seasons, so a hybrid system is more likely to deliver electricity when you need it. Reserve power (up to three days worth) can be stored in battery banks and a diesel or gasoline generator can be added to the system for those rare island days when there is neither wind nor sunshine.The diagram to the right, from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) site shows a simplified Hybrid design.

Hybrid systems are designed to be operated “off the grid” (i.e. not connected to a commercial power distribution system) which makes them ideal for stand-alone operation. Sophisticated electronic controllers manage the multiple power sources and monitor the status of the batteries. If the reserve runs low, the controller automatically starts the generator to supply power and charge the battery bank.

The EERE Web site at http://www.eere.energy.gov/ provides a wealth of information about alternative energy sources, including information on hybrid solar lighting (HSL) - a new technology that harnesses the sun by collecting sunlight and routing it through fiber optic cables where it is combined with electric light in special hybrid light fixtures to provide interior lighting. The Department of Energy estimates that HSL systems will deliver an equivalent amount of light for about 25% of the cost of a completely electric solution.

Manufactured by Brunton, a century-old travel and adventure supplies company, SolarRolls are the first waterproof, weatherproof and flexible solar power source on the market. A slim mat that can easily be rolled into a storage tube to fit virtually anywhere, the SolarRoll has provided a stable and effective power source for sea kayakers, adventure travelers and even mountain climbers. SolarRolls come in a variety of sizes, from the 12″x22″ version suitable for charging small electronics, to a 12″x57″ model with a whopping 14 watt output that will easily recharge a laptop or other larger device. Modular in design, these panels can even be linked to increase available energy.

  http://www.brunton.com/product.php?id=256

After the “Green Revolution” of the past few years, most tech-savvy people scarcely bat an eye when confronted with solar devices that do everything from charge an MP3 player to power an electric toothbrush. Although wind power has been harnessed for centuries, personal-use products that employ turbines are far less common on the market. However, a surprising number of applications are now being found for this easily-obtained and eco-friendly energy source.

In a sleek and sophisticated case, the HYmini portable wind charger is little device that can be strapped on to a bicycle or car (or even your upper arm!) to collect enough wind energy to charge your cell phone, music player and other small electronics. It comes with multiple adaptors and even a solar panel in case there is not enough wind to provide a charge. At less than US $60, they are not only attractive and futuristic, but highly affordable.

http://www.hymini.com/eshop/index.html

At just US $199, the revolutionary Motorwave mini-turbines are a unique-looking and very cool little series of turbines that sit in a line perched atop your home, generating power even at wind speeds of just two miles an hour. Lightweight and easily installed, these turbines are a perfect match for remote living- and their flat design and small size reduces the chance of birds or detritus getting caught.

http://www.motorwavegroup.com/new/motorwind/index.html

 While many personal wind-powered products are not yet commercially available, the future looks very promising for this green technology. Ideal for island life, the pretty “Wing” personal windmill is a sail-like turbine intended for use when camping or in remote locations. Portable, foldable and easy to set up, the Wing resembles a beach umbrella when closed, and can generate enough energy to power a mini-fridge, computer and portable devices, and keep most basic needs satisfied. The winner of the coveted INDEX:AWARD for sustainable technologies, this is a product that’s sure to find broad market appeal when launched.

http://www.indexaward.dk/2007/default.asp?id=706&show=nomination&nominationid=182

One of the most creative new uses for solar panel technology, a number of backpacks and bags have come on the market that not only look great, but will actually recharge cellular phones, MP3 players and other small electronic devices. The bags are outfitted with durable collection panels and batteries to store surplus energy, and are a perfect fit for long hikes or island vacations on less developed islands.

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An ingenious new technology from South Africa, Landing Eyes are a unique lighting system for private airstrips. These small and highly cost-effective lights employ solar power, batteries and a series of reflective strips to safely illuminate landing strips for night time landings. Developed by an engineer and amateur pilot from Durban, Landing Eyes are a revolutionary product on a continent where only 10% of private and public airstrips are equipped with electrical landing lights. Read more »