Since I’m interested in solar energy and all information related to it, I was curious to find out if there are any cool solar-powered gadgets/accessories available out there that would be of interest for the ladies. So, after doing a little research on the net I came across Solarjo’s Power Purse – a fashionable-looking solar-powered purse.

Actually, this is a black rectangular handbag (6″ x 12″ x 3″), the brainchild of Joe Hynek, a PhD student of mechanical engineering, who designed the bag in 2005, during a handbag competition in an experimental garment design class at Iowa State University. The initial inspiration for incorporating solar cells into clothing and accessories, Joe Hynek got when he worked at a solar panel manufacturer in Ames, making solar panels that work with military applications.

This very creative, eco-conscious high-tech handbag is covered with laminated solar panels made of thin-film photovoltaic cells, which absorb the sun’s rays and create electricity. The purse design incorporates six solar panels outside and two batteries tucked away inside its lining connected to a USB port, so that you can charge your small electronic gadgets that you carry around with you. Electronic gadgets such as cell phones, ipods, Blackberrys, etc. can be attached directly to the USB port, or by using an adaptor.

The stylish purse needs to be exposed to 2 hours of sunlight in order to fully charge a mobile phone battery. The purse’s fully charged battery can last for up to a month.

The Power Purse’s current price is about $300 (£150) and it is likely to be available for purchase by the end of 2008.

Joes Hynek’s website: Solarjo.com

Sources: Daily Mail & Environment News Service