New Device Allows Users to Charge iPods by Going for a Walk

Tremont Electric has launched a portable energy generator that allows users to charge handheld electronic devices simply by going for a walk.

The nPower PEG, launched at last week’s 2009 CES event, works on the principle of electromagnetic induction to create a 100% renewable energy source for everything from iPods to mobile phones. To get a charge, users simply connect the PEG to their mobile device and lay it vertically, either against their hip, or in a bag, while they go for a walk or a run.

At around 9 inches long and weighing in at 9 ounces, the PEG is portable and convenient enough to be carried anywhere, while also delivering a charge at the same rate as a wall charger. According to Tremont,  this equates to around an 80% charge from an hour-long walk for most mobile devices.

The Npower PEG is also totally recyclable, and could be a useful purchase for people traveling off the beaten track that need a reliable source of energy when the mains supply isn’t available. Alternatively, it could just be a nifty, and simple, way to reduce your carbon footprint.

The PEG will soon be available for pre-order at a cost of $149. At the moment, this is just a little too expensive to make perfect financial sense. However, it’s quite possible that potential buyers will be tempted if the price comes down over time, thus shortening the ‘pay-back’ period through reduced energy costs.

Image Credit – Oh Gizmo

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  • http://EcoLegacy.WordPress.com CSea

    What is the EMF doing to your hip while charging? I know a lot of walkers that may be interested. They are concerned about EMF and shielding their mobiles, iPod’s and cells when walking to avoid the change in their blood.

    We are going to introduce it to the group and let them decide. How much will it reduce an average person’s carbon footprint?

  • http://EcoLegacy.WordPress.com CSea

    What is the EMF doing to your hip while charging? I know a lot of walkers that may be interested. They are concerned about EMF and shielding their mobiles, iPod’s and cells when walking to avoid the change in their blood.

    We are going to introduce it to the group and let them decide. How much will it reduce an average person’s carbon footprint?

  • chrisp

    Would this device charge electronics faster if it was hand-held? I know my arms move more than my legs on a long hike.

  • chrisp

    Would this device charge electronics faster if it was hand-held? I know my arms move more than my legs on a long hike.

  • Nicholas

    As cool as this is, I don’t see it being useful as a way of reducing your carbon footprint. After all the energy going into the production and distribution of the device, it is unlikely to be carbon neutral without years of use. The device may be incredibly useful for hikers and backpackers (such as myself) who would like to be able to charge a cell phone or iPod out in the field for multiple days at a time.

  • Nicholas

    As cool as this is, I don’t see it being useful as a way of reducing your carbon footprint. After all the energy going into the production and distribution of the device, it is unlikely to be carbon neutral without years of use. The device may be incredibly useful for hikers and backpackers (such as myself) who would like to be able to charge a cell phone or iPod out in the field for multiple days at a time.

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