09.01.2011– OAKLAND, Calif. – Solio, leading developer of hand-held solar chargers and lighting products, is a sustainable solution for students looking to keep bookbag essentials like mp3 players, cell phones, and digital cameras powered during long days on campus. Back to school is the perfect opportunity for a student to kick off a commitment to reduce consumption of resources and embrace renewable energy into daily life. For nearly a decade, Solio has provided portable solar chargers in iconic and durable packages to accommodate on-the-go lifestyles as well as off-the-grid adventures. With the launch of its newest charger, the Solio “Bolt,” students can count on making that crucial “check-in” call to friends and family without the worry of a dead battery; a fully charged Bolt can give smartphones like the iPhone and Motorola Droid two complete charges. to simplify the user experience, the new Bolt charges directly from a device’s respective USB charging cables, no longer relying on cumbersome adapter cables or tips. the Bolt also comes in handy during students’ weekend adventures away from study sessions and classes. When outdoor adventures call for GPS assistance or a headlamp for light at a campsite, the Bolt is compatible with go-to choices from Garmin, Princeton Tec, Petzl, and more. Documenting the adventure can wreak havoc on a digital camera battery but Solio makes recharging cameras a breeze during prolonged time away from an outlet or laptop. At $70, the Bolt is easy on a student’s budget and with the long-term reliability and cost-savings, it’s a wise investment. Like all Solio products, the Bolt’s user-replaceable battery is simple to install, and the charger was designed for easy dismantling and recycling at the end of its usable life. the Solio Bolt will be available at RadioShack, Sprint, and REI stores in the United States and Mountain Equipment Co-op in Canada. also available at solio.com. About SolioSolio is a developer and manufacturer of portable solar chargers and lighting systems, helping power work and play with renewable energy. Solio products are compatible with an enormous range of devices from GPS units to MP3 players, smartphones, and cameras. Chances are, if a device can be powered by USB, it can be powered by Solio. a nearly ten-year-old brand, the Oakland, CA-based company makes its products available for purchase through specialty retailers like REI, Sprint, RadioShack and also provides rural communities in Kenya with home solar lease options, providing access to affordable clean energy and lighting systems. For more information visit solio.com.Solio stands for energy equalityThrough Kiva microfinance loans, solar energy entrepreneurs are able to start a green energy business of their own. Solio is a proud partner of Kiva – find out more here: kiva.org/greenInquiries: Craig Randall at Verde PR & Consulting | 303-718-6519 | craig@verdepr.com