While there are many portable solar panels available for charging devices away from power sources, they all share a common drawback: they stop working in bad weather or at night. In contrast, the Shine 2.0 portable wind turbine generator from Aurea Technologies can keep powering your devices continuously as long as there is sufficient wind.
Enhanced Design and Features
The Shine 2.0, the second version of this product, boasts several notable improvements over its predecessor. With an elongated egg shape, this portable wind turbine includes a built-in battery. Once assembled, it only requires wind speeds of 8mph (13kph) or higher to start generating electricity, which can be used to charge various devices like phones, laptops, cameras, and flashlights through its USB-C PD port, which has a maximum output of 75W. Additionally, you can charge the Shine 2.0 itself from a wall outlet using the USB-C port.
At maximum wind speeds of 28mph (45kph), the turbine can produce up to 50W of power, allowing it to fully charge a laptop in just under 2 hours. However, if the wind speed drops to 8mph, the output will decrease to 5W. The original version only generated 40W and featured a 13W USB-A output. When not charging devices, the Shine 2.0 uses its generated power to recharge its 12,000mAh lithium-ion battery for later use.
Smart Monitoring and Compatibility
Another new feature of the Shine 2.0 is its Bluetooth-enabled app, which lets users keep track of wind speed, power output, battery status, temperature, and charging duration. The device can also charge portable power stations, like the Anker Solix C300, currently priced at $199 on Amazon. However, users will need to buy a separate USB-C to XT60 connector to connect it to the power station. Additionally, there’s an 8mm DC barrel connector option for other types of power stations.
Portability and Pricing
When not in use, the Shine 2.0 can be folded up and easily carried in a backpack. Weighing only 3lbs (1.3kg), it is rated IP54 for both dust and water resistance. It includes a 3ft collapsible mount, although users can opt for a 6ft mount to capture stronger winds. Pegs and guy wires are also provided to secure the turbine to the ground.
The Shine 2.0 is currently available on Kickstarter, retailing for $571, but early supporters can purchase it for as low as $358. If everything goes as planned, shipping is expected to start in March 2025.
Aurea Technologies (Kickstarter), via The Verge
