Portable Light, developed by University of Michigan and Kennedy & Violich Architecture, is a series of prototypes which integrate flexible solar cells and super bright LEDs into lighting solutions for the large number of people (over 2 billions) who do not have access to electric light or power. The system could also benefit the “first world” where there is a growing need to imagine energy efficient alternatives to the centralized and costly electrical grid.

The use of high brightness solid state lighting (hBLEDs) means that a light of 80 lumens per watt (bright enough to read, work and illuminate area at night) can be produced by a single miniature diode and powered by small solar panels.

The long term goal is to integrate the technology directly into the textile, but for now they’ve done a great job of incorporating off-the-shelf components into architectural and functional designs.

Via Personal debris.