Diffus, the design firm behind the innovative Climate Dress, has turned its talents to accessories. This solar powered handbag is the company’s latest sustainable creation.
Bags powered with solar energy are nothing new, but it’s unusual to see a label using the photovoltaic cells as a design element. There are actually 100 small solar panels stitched onto each bag which together generate around two watts in sunlight. In layman’s terms that’s enough energy to power a cell phone and the fiber optic lights hidden inside. These illuminated fibers make finding your keys or wallet a snap.
Diffus has shrunk down monocrystalline silicone, one of the most efficient photovoltaic materials to create its solar panels. This allows the panels to be relatively small and stylish, yet still very effective.
The technology is impressive, but thankfully it hasn’t taken precedence over functional design. The carry-all has enough space to carry all your everyday essentials, and its sturdy strap is the right size for slinging over your shoulder.
Diffus develops the technology rather than mass-producing the products, so it’ll be a long while before we see these bags in stores. But at least we’re getting there. The thought of solar power becoming more than a gimmick, but a stylish and practical component of an accessory is pretty exciting.
