As a researchaholic, it is difficult to decide what to bring to Kenya. On one hand, I have no desire to overwhelm myself and my community with amenities that make me stand out. On the other hand, there is the possibility that I will want to further develop the e-learning software used in the deaf classes, which would require a laptop and possibly a video camera, and I want to make sure that if that opportunity arises, I can take advantage of it even if I’m in an area without reliable power. (For that matter, I don’t want my interest in that software to inherently mean that I have to work in a urban district.)
So… I splurged yesterday and bought some items to keep me off the grid:
-a 62w fold-able solar panel (about 3 pounds)
-a charge controller so I can hook it up to a car battery if I get one while I’m there
-a voltage limiter to so can hook it up to laptop/AA chargers, etc.
-various cords and stuff
This was no small investment (I won’t list prices but if you look these things up you’ll see), and I may feel silly if I end up in a place with reliable AC power, or I end up simply not needing my camcorder or laptop, but as a Boy Scout it’s just not an option to go unprepared. The good news is that this stuff won’t take up much space; however, if I do use the panel, I’ll definitely be the Crazy American with all my gadgets. I can live with that though.