2.6 billion people don’t have reliable access to grid power. Old car batteries are often used instead to charge cell phones, power lghts, etc. Fenix has developed ReadySet, a portable device with a lead-acid battery that can recharge from solar, bicycle, or the grid, with lots of outlets to power whatever. They are partnering with telcos and NGO’s to get ReadySet out there by the millions. Cost is $150.
Gigaom has more.