Freeloader
Power your gadgets for free using just the sun. No, really!
The Freeloader is an advanced portable charger that uses solar power. You stick the Freeloader on the windowsill for a few hours until it’s full then carry it around with you as a charger for your mobile, iPod, or various handheld devices. Once charged, the Freeloader’s internal battery should power an iPod for 18hours, a mobile phone for 44 hours, PSP for 2.5 hours and PDA for 22 hours, as well most other major handheld items.Pros
As well as the energy saving, the Freeloader is very handy, simple to use and easy to carry around. It can also survive the knocks of being carted around in a bag, and now comes in a pretty pink colour as well as silver.
Cons
Like other solar powered products, it may need a good few hours before it’s ready to go. The Freeloader does come with a charge cable that plugs into the USB socket in your computer, but obviously this isn’t as great in terms of energy saving.
Energy saved
Not having to plug in several different chargers into the mains will save energy and save you money; and the solar power method is much nicer to the environment.
Cost
£20-30
