In a post last Fall that highlighted various kinetic energy charger options, I mentioned that the nPower PEG from Tremont Electric was available for pre-order. Well great news as it appears the nPower PEG (Personal Energy Generator) has finally started shipping.
The nPower PEG is a small, lightweight device that allows you to create renewable energy while you walk, hike, climb, bike or run. Just place the personal energy generator vertically in your backpack, on your arm or leg and go about your activity as normal. As you move, the nPower harvests the kinetic energy that you're already generating and coverts it into usable power for recharging you cell phone, MP3, or other handheld devices.
A unique, adaptive control system automatically adjusts to your activity to capture maximum power. A compact, fully recyclable lithium polymer battery stores your energy for charging your devices later. The nPower PEG comes with a mini USB connection and various adapter tips to allow you to connect to virtually any handheld device for charging. A standard USB 2.0 connector lets you charge your nPower PEG off of the mains as well.
The inventor of the personal energy generator, Aaron LeMieux, thought up the idea while hiking the Appalachian Trail. Aaron went back to the annual Trail Days celebration this year to show off the final version of the kinetic energy charger and distribute a few to some lucky trail hikers for review.
The nPower PEG is available for $149.99 from the company website. I can imagine this will make a valuable accessory for a thru hike, expedition or even for playing around in the backcountry as you can't always depend on sunshine but you can depend on having to move!