As power it becomes more riskypersonal energy production only becomes more attractive. Shine’s compact turbine isn’t going to power your home anytime soon (although the company’s co-founder told me they have plans in that direction), but it can suck up the energy needed to charge a smartphone in as little as 17 minutes. Of course, what it can generate depends on the wind speed. This same charge can take up to 11 hours if there is only a slight breeze.
This power curve and its ability to operate at night distinguish the turbine from solar panels. Of course, on a completely calm day, the Shine is as inert as a becalmed sailboat, but if the wind picks up even a breeze, it gets to work producing power. The turbine even automatically pivots on the included bracket to face the wind.
Brilliant Turbine 2.0 (Shine)
The Shine 2.0 looks like a slim space football and has a twist-off cap that reveals a hollow compartment for the stand and fasteners. The cap then serves as a key to unlock the blades. The whole thing weighs just three pounds, which is incredibly light considering it also houses a 50W, 12,000mAh battery. This is the second version of the Turbine and the updates include a USB-C port instead of USB-A, as well as app connectivity.
The company claims you can set everything up in about two minutes. I saw the co-founder take the turbine from fully closed to deployed and stand ready in about that long. Unfortunately, there was no wind in the CES show floor, so I couldn’t see it spinning, but the rep was kind enough to spin it for me.
Spin the Shine 2.0 turbine (Amy Skorheim for Engadget)
Perhaps the most exciting part is Shine’s plan for more expansive energy production. Shine 3.0, which the company is currently working on, will be a 100-300 watt system and grid-connected wind turbines are on the wish list.
Pre-orders are now open for the Shine 2.0 via Indiegogo for $399 and units are expected to begin shipping this spring.
