Want to make a statement by committing to renewable energy in a small but important part of your life? What better way than to power part or all of your RC hobby with solar power.
I have chosen to run my entire fleet and nearly every aspect of my RC flying hobby on solar energy, generated from a 45 watt photovoltaic array and charge controller I bought from Harbor Freight for only $150, plus a small deep-cycle battery for $45. I am able to charge all my lipo battery packs, my FPV goggle battery, FPV ground station batteries, GoPro batteries, keychain camera, iPhone and provide a 12v source for workbench lighting, hot glue gun, soldering iron, how-to video production studio lights and camera. The lead-acid battery charges up throughout the week for mass lipo charging for the weekend. I tap off power for other aspects as needed throughout the week.
There are many choices for solar power, some of which are more efficient but also more expensive. Given a budget, I went small to start. The kit I use was $150 on sale, plus a little shipping, and is found here:
http://www.harborfreight.com/solar-panel-kit-45-watt-68751.html
The battery I use is a scooter battery bought on eBay for $45. Deep-cycle batteries with larger capacities are widely available.
While I realize the return on investment is very gradual and the overall impact is pretty small, I do feel a more responsible citizen of the earth and proud RC pilot to use a renewable energy source for that thing in life that brings me the most fun and fulfillment. It's hopefully a small step towards a better future. Let me know if you have any questions or if I might help you do the same. [email protected]
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