Solar powered radio: A shining solution to radio power
Contributing Editor
Today, the consumption of non-renewable substances like coal, gas, and oil is having an alarming impact on our planet.
Around the world, governments and consumers alike are realizing that if we’re going to protect our world, we’re going to need to look for more sustainable sources of energy.
Fortunately, one of the most powerful options that we have is available all across the planet. Solar energy allows us to tap into the heat and light of the sun and transform those components into electrical charge.
This innovative solution is appearing in applications across the globe. Today, we have everything from solar-powered lamps to entire houses powered by the sun.
Solar radios are a popular and practical solution for people who can’t rely on constant access to mainline electricity and battery power.
These radios aren’t just there as a consistent source of entertainment; they can also be a way for people to get crucial information in an emergency.
In many countries, radio is a lifeline designed to preserve limited contact with the rest of the world. Radios that run on alternative power sources, like the crank or solar radio, are incredibly valuable.
In the rest of this article, we’ll discuss solar powered radio in detail. From its history and functionality to the best solar powered radio on the market today, we’ll cover everything you need to make an informed decision. Keep reading!
What is solar powered radio?
Solar energy is the power given off by the sun. The sun doesn’t just give us glorious summers and plenty of light; it’s also a highly efficient source of renewable energy.
A solar power radio is a form of battery-less radio receiver that’s powered by photovoltaic technology.
Photovoltaic or PV panels absorb the energy from the sun and convert it into a current that can keep your radio alive and kicking.
The very first solar powered radio was designed in the 1950s in an experiment with the famous company General Electric.
The device weighed only ten ounces – making it excellent for portability. Additionally, it was able to work without any recharging whatsoever.
The GE solar powered radio contained seven solar cells in total, a small battery, and four transistors.
By 1954, the Western Electric brand started to sell commercial solar powered radios, which featured a range of other photovoltaic technologies.
By 1957, the Acopian Technical Company reported that they had produced the first solar radios that could be sold to the general public.
Solar powered radios are convenient solutions that eliminate the need to constantly replace batteries, or keep your devices connected to a grid-based power supply.
Since there’s no need for a plug or electrical outlet, you can use these devices in areas without generators or grid access.
Additionally, people in remote areas or locations without access to the grid can still access the valuable information available on the radio.
How does a solar powered radio work?
At first, solar powered radio seems complicated. You might have seen those PV panels on top of a house and thought, “How does a solar-powered radio work?”. However, the process is a lot simpler than it seems.
There are two ways that you can collect solar energy. The first is collecting light from the sun, and the second involves absorbing the heat of the sun’s rays.
The first option is the most common, and it’s the method relied on for solar powered radios. PV panels or photovoltaic technology absorbs the light from the sun and runs it through semiconductors connected to two crucial contacts.
When the sun’s light particles (photons) enter the semiconductors, they remove electrons from their atoms. This creates an electrical current.
The second method of harnessing solar energy isn’t suitable to support a solar power radio. This process channels solar power as thermal energy through a series of reflections and mirrors. This produces steam which powers a turbine which in turn generates electricity.
One of the biggest issues facing designers of solar powered radios is that various features can affect the amount of power a device can produce with energy from the sun. For instance, the amount of sun the device is exposed to will impact its performance.
If there’s no battery available to hold the charge, it’s also not possible to use the solar system at night.
A brief history of solar power: The energy of the future
To truly understand the potential of solar powered radio, you need a basic understanding of solar power and where it came from.
You may be surprised to learn that solar energy has been harnessed since the 7th century B.C.
Before we ever had houses and cars, the Greeks and Romans were using mirrors to capture light and used it for setting fire to torches.
Of course, the technology available in solar power radio today has come a long way since those early days. The world’s first cell for collecting solar power was designed in the year 1767.
This device, created by Horace Benedict De Saussure, a Swiss scientist, was produced when Saussure found that he could use heat power and steam to generate electricity.
Using layers of glass, the scientist magnified the temperature of the sun and used it for his experiments.
In 1839, mankind discovered a new milestone in the evolution of solar energy when we defined the power of photovoltaic effects.
A French scientist named Edmund Becquerel discovered through research in his father’s lab that he could create a photovoltaic effect with an electrolytic cell using two electrodes. After he exposed the battery to light, the energy levels within it increased.
In an article published in 1873, the discovery was released, and six years later, the very first photovoltaic cell was made.
A man called Charles Fritts designed the solid PV cell by covering the semiconductor’s selenium with a small layer of gold. It was the first demonstration that proved a solid material with no moving parts could transform the sun’s power into energy.
Since Fritts’ discovery, scientists around the world have searched for ways to improve the performance and efficiency of PV cells.
In 1888, a Russian scientist named Aleksandr Stoletov built the first photoelectric cell based on the photoelectric effect.
The concept of the photoelectric effect came from a man named Heinrich Hertz, who was also responsible for discovering some of the technology that went into the creation of the radio.
The photoelectric effect found that electrons were released from substances after they absorbed light. Incredible scientist Albert Einstein eventually published a paper on the phenomenon, which he used to win the Nobel Prize for Physics in 1921.
By the time we reached the 1950s, global warming was already a common concern. Many magazines published stories on the subject, and people were starting to become aware of the growing issue around the depletion of fossil fuels.
The first practical photovoltaic cell for mass use emerged in a laboratory in 1954, designed by Daryl Chaplin.
A few years later, the US government was testing the potential of PV cells to power the satellites orbiting the Earth.
As the decades passed, the potential of PV cells and solar power became more significant.
Between the 1970s and 1990s, we saw a massive uptake in the use of solar cells as they began to appear in homes, railroad crossings, and more.
Now, we can find solar cells in many places, including cars that run partially on solar energy and the rising potential of solar powered aircraft.
Crank radio vs. solar power radio
As mentioned above, radio is often a lifeline for many countries, who see their broadcasts as the only source of news and information that can be reliably accessed.
Solar powered radio isn’t the first foray scientists have made into a sustainable radio that people can access anywhere in the world.
Battery-less radio receivers have been in production for decades, designed to help eliminate the issues that prevent people outside of the grid from having radio technology.
Crystal radios were one of the original “battery-less” radio receivers, capable of receiving information from long antennas.
However, these radios were very limited in what they could reasonably do. They weren’t enough to support the impoverished nations of today.
Additionally, in the Soviet Union during the 1920s, thermoelectricity was used to power radios.
Again, the results were unreliable and often dangerous.
Some scientists even explored the potential of kerosene radios and petrol radios, but none of these innovations had the same durability and sustainability offered by the crank and solar radios to come.
Fortunately, in the mid-1990s, a man named Trevor Baylis appeared with a new answer to the question of sustainable energy for modern communications.
Baylis created the first “clockwork” radio, or wind-up radio – a solution originally considered to be the best way to access power for radios in some of the world’s poorest locations.
Critics argued, however, that the wind-up radio was too expensive for people in impoverished environments.
Many UK companies said that the cost of wind-up radios is quite high – even if the expenses involved with running and maintaining the machines were much cheaper than they would be with battery-run receivers.
As a philanthropist, Baylis did what he could to reduce that problem by working with non-profit organizations to give many clockwork radios to the countries that needed them most.
Aid agencies were given special rates for the radios and were able to give them away in various communities for a meager price.
Of course, the people who didn’t get a handout still found it impossible to get their hands on the right radio.
Although wind-up radios solved problems for many countries to a certain extent, manufacturers and scientists still felt that they needed to find a more sustainable way to make communication more accessible to the world.
That’s where the idea of the solar powered radio comes from.
Solar power radio keeps costs low by using the off-cuts of commercial solar panels produced in UK factories. They are then added to cheap but durable radio kits. The end result is simple and easy to use, but it’s also highly reliable.
There is an issue with solar powered radios.
People won’t be able to use them at night. Owners may forget to charge them during the day. However, manufacturers have begun to solve this problem by supplying rechargeable batteries for their solar powered machines.
The benefits of solar powered radio devices
Most people today know the benefits of choosing solar power over conventional forms of energy.
Solar is renewable and sustainable, and it doesn’t hurt our environment.
In a time where we’re more aware of things like global warming than ever before, it’s crucial for all countries and governments to ensure that they’re taking the potential of solar power seriously.
For projects on a larger scale, many government bodies are starting to offer financial benefits to people willing to explore the benefits of solar power.
For instance, you can get grants that help you place solar panels on your house and then sell the energy you make back to the grid.
As a form of portable solar powered device, this type of radio offers many benefits. The most important advantage of all is that a solar radio is available to use anywhere.
In other words, it is lightweight, easy to carry, and convenient.
People can take their devices with them, whether moving across the country, trekking in the countryside, or simply hiking.
Many people rely on these radios as a crucial piece of survivalist kit – particularly if they do a lot of outdoor adventuring.
There are no wires to get in the way, and there’s no need to worry about your electrical devices’ impact on the environment.
Aside from solar powered radios, countless other portable devices are available with solar energy solutions built into them today.
You can find everything from solar powered cameras and surveillance systems to smartphone chargers.
When Trevor Baylis designed his original crank radio, he wanted to give people in Africa and other countries a chance to access the educational information they needed to improve their health and well-being.
The crank radio was meant to be a way to support the fight against the AIDS epidemic, as many experts believed that a lack of knowledge was supporting the spread of the disease.
In the same way, solar power radio can change the lives of thousands by offering an easy way to access crucial information.
These radios take the sunlight that is abundant in many parts of the world and convert it into energy, which can keep a radio running all day long – without any cranking necessary.
At the same time, access to radio stations lets people in isolated parts of the world know that they’re not alone – no matter how far removed they may be from other civilizations.
Since the original invention of the radio, this broadcasting technology has helped people around the world to come together into a more connected community.
Solar powered radio takes that concept to the next level by eliminating the need for grid access or expensive batteries.
The future of solar power radio
Solar powered radio has a lot to offer.
Beyond supporting impoverished countries and making sure that you can still listen to the radio on your family camping trips, these devices have a range of other practical applications.
Because they don’t need any sources of electricity or batteries to stay running, they’re ideal for an emergency kit.
In a troubling situation when you don’t have access to energy, you’ll still be able to find out what’s going on by listening to your radio.
Solar power is an easy and sustainable way for humanity to access the power it needs without producing dangerous greenhouse gasses or wasting electricity.
Since we initially discovered the exciting potential of PV panels, the cost of creating power with solar energy has steadily decreased over the years.
As a result, countries all across the globe have been able to start investing more time and money into creating solar innovations.
In the future, you may find that most of your electrical devices are powered by the sun, including your laptop, car, and more.
The electricity created by growing solar plants supplies power to commercial businesses and entire communities in certain parts of the world. We’re gradually reducing our dependence on non-renewable materials, one solar powered radio at a time.
Additionally, scientists and developers are continually discovering new ways to take advantage of solar power radio technology.
For instance, in 2018, a group of engineers found a way to perform blockchain powered cryptocurrency transactions using nothing but solar power and short-wave radio broadcasting.
This wasn’t the world’s first cryptocurrency transaction powered by radio, but according to the developers, it was the first to happen entirely off the grid.
The team found a way to manage their transaction with nothing but a solar battery pack, a portable hard drive, and a shortwave radio. The result of the experiment shows just how powerful solar powered radio waves can be in the right hands.
The right technology doesn’t just support people who want to tune into their favorite shows and listen to tunes.
Radio waves are also the tech that we use to create remote controls, microwaves, and countless other essential items.
The project was developed as part of the Call for Code challenge. Developers from different backgrounds competed against each other in creating tech that will support people during times of natural disasters.
The resulting technology allows us to send messages and other vital data off the grid through the blockchain in an immutable and secure environment.
It’s impossible to say for sure what’s next for solar and solar power radio – but it seems evident that this sustainable technology is here to stay.
The 5 Best Solar Powered Radios
Now that you know what a solar powered radio is and its potential, the next question in your mind is, “Which solar radio is best?”
Besides helping you to conserve electricity and reduce your utility bills, you want a solar powered radio that guarantees excellent reception. Remember, you don’t want to keep moving from point to point in your home in search of FM/AM digital signals for radio broadcasts.
That said, the table below summarizes the top five solar radios on the market today:
1. 5000 Weather Radio
The 5000 Weather Radio is among the best solar power radios due to its solid reception on AM/FM shortwaves. It’s designed to ensure excellent FM/AM radio reception as well as shortwave signals.
The 5000 Weather Radio demonstrates the capability of shortwave radios in emergencies.
The best part is that this radio allows you to access shortwave signals even with the antenna down.
In English, it means, you won’t have to deal with the common hissing and crackling sounds in radios due to poor signals.
Besides being solar powered, the 5000 Weather Radio is also crank-enabled. This is an added advantage since you can rely on solar power in summer and hand-crank in winter when you can’t receive sufficient sun.
Imagine having to miss your favorite radio show in winter due to lack of sunlight!
Finally, the radio’s 7 pre-configured NOAA weather channels will keep you updated in case of severe weather advisory.
For slightly over $29, get to enjoy the following features:
- 5 power options, including solar, winding up handle, three AAA batteries (link to Amazon), compartment, and micro USB input connection
- LED reading lamp
- Bright camping flashlight
- SOS alarm
- Emergency cellphone charger
- 3.5mm headphone jack
2. Kaito KA500 6-Way Powered Radio
The Kaito KA500 6-Way Powered Radio is the best option regarding reception quality. It has a 14.5-inch telescopic antenna responsible for its high-sensitivity reception.
The antenna and an advanced semiconductor circuitry design make this radio ideal for emergencies. It can receive radio signals even in the most remote locations for excellent broadcasts.
The radio is 6-way powered. Besides solar, it comes with a hand crank generator, a compartment for 3 AAA batteries, USB input, an adapter, and a rechargeable and replaceable battery pack.
With the above diverse power options, the Kaito KA500 6-Way Powered Radio is suitable for use in different settings.
If there is no electricity or solar energy, you can crank up the radio and continue enjoying your favorite music or shows.
As if that is not enough, the radio is water-resistant. This is a handy feature, especially if you lead a nomadic lifestyle. You can rest assured that the radio is safe, even during a storm.
For slightly over $49, enjoy the following features:
- Comprehensive AM and FM coverage
- 2-band shortwaves
- 24/7 real-time weather forecasts for residents of Canada and USA
- A public emergency alert system (PEAS)
- NOAA pre-programmed weather channels
- A 5-LED study lamp
- A LED flashlight
- Emergency mobile battery charger
3. Eton Sidekick
The Eton Sidekick is referred to as the ultimate camping radio for a good reason. It has some of the best features that will enhance your camping experience.
For instance, the radio is both solar and battery-powered, meaning you can charge the battery during the day for use at night.
What’s more, the Eton Sidekick makes it to the list of the best solar powered radios because you can easily charge it via solar or hand crank.
Once the radio is fully charged, your smartphone or tablet won’t go off while on a camping expedition. You can capture all those beautiful camping moments with your smartphone without worrying about the power going low since you can use the radio to charge the phone.
As with most Eton Radios, you can expect this option to be highly portable and reliable.
For slightly over $99, here are the key features you’ll get to enjoy:
- A multifunctional digital radio
- Excellent reception for FM/AM, SAME, and NOAA signals
- A bright LED flashlight
- Excellent lighting with a dimmer
- Red emergency beacon
- Weather alert channels
4. TFTDOUP Solar Emergency Radio
You don’t have to break your bank account to own a solar powered radio.
The TFTDOUP Solar Emergency Radio is among the most affordable solar powered radios on the market today.
For slightly over $16, this radio guarantees some of the best features a solar powered radio offers.
Being affordable doesn’t mean the radio is of poor quality.
Besides being solar-powered, the radio comes with a hand crank generator, making it ideal for use in all seasons—from summer and spring to winter and autumn. You don’t have to use the radio only when there is sufficient sun.
The radio has a large battery capacity. Once fully charged, you can use it to charge other devices like your smartphone and tablet on the go.
It’s also your go-to option if you want to stay safe in emergencies like hurricanes, rainstorms, and tornadoes. Its NOAA weather channels will keep you updated on all weather situations.
This radio has the following main features:
- Compact size for portability
- Three bright LED flashlights
- 3-power mode; hand crank wind up, solar, and micro USB
- SOS alarm
- Battery backup
5. RunningSnail Emergency Crank Radio
Being referred to as an emergency Crank Radio depicts that this radio is designed to help people navigate emergencies successfully. It’s the best radio to have in an emergency.
The RunningSnail Emergency Crank Radio is both solar and crank-powered, making it ideal for emergencies, especially when you can’t access electricity.
The radio has been upgraded to be highly practical and powerful, the key features that makes it ideal for emergencies.
For instance, its capable 2,000mAh built-in battery stores more power. Its SOS alarm and bright flashlight ensure more security in the dark.
In terms of power, the radio is equipped with a comfortable hand crank, an electrical label, and a bigger solar panel. What does this mean?
It means you have different ways to power your radio. Therefore, if you can’t access the sun, simply switch to the hand crank generator and get your radio live again.
For under $24, get to enjoy the following key features:
- Wind up emergency radio
- Three-band radio, AM, FM, and NOAA
- 18-months warranty
- Alarm and built-in LED flashlight
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Solar Powered Radios Work?
Solar powered radios work well, especially for people without constant access to power. These radios have excellent signal reception, making them ideal for entertainment, news, and other radio broadcasts.
Is There a Radio That Works Without Electricity?
Solar powered radios work without electricity. These radios have photovoltaic cells that receive solar energy for their functioning. Therefore, they don’t need electricity.
Are Portable Solar Power Stations Worth It?
Portable solar power stations are worth it because they offer an opportunity to charge your devices like smartphones when in an emergency or blackout. Consequently, they are handy when camping and hiking.
What Frequency Is Solar Radio?
Most solar radios operate based on AM/FM frequencies. These are 535-1605 kHz and 87.5-108.0 MHz, respectively.
What Is the Best Radio for Living Off the Grid
Solar and crank radios are the best options for living off the grid. These radios use solar power and hand crank generators for power, respectively.
Therefore, you don’t need to be connected to the national grid to use them.
What Are the Different Types of Solar Radios?
There are different types of solar radios based on their bands. Most solar radios combine FM, AM, and NOAA bands.
Did you notice that some of the best solar radios we recommended were also crank radios?
Thanks to having an alternative power source, this type of radio is the go-to during an emergency. Head on to our lists of the 10 Best Crank Radio Options For Any Emergency and the Best Emergency Radio for more!
Radio Fidelity: For the love of radio.
