After all the storms we experienced in my state, I think that having an alternative power source is essential, everyone should have at least one solar panel, a rechargeable battery and a power inverter. Why? Because in extreme emergencies the usual energy sources aren't available, while the sun comes back to shine nearly everyday.I experienced this first hand after we endured the Sandy superstorm. All of my neighbors were using gas generators during the power outage that followed, but in a matter of three days they simply ran out of gas. Not having gas in their cars either, or phone land lines, they were facing a total lack of communication. In top of all, we were not allowed to live our area either, because according to the Governor office, it was not safe.I was the only one in my block that has solar panels, even though small ones, they were enough to charge the devices my family needed charged, and to keep my batteries recharging. Ironically, I chose solar panels instead of gas generators because of the cost, contrary to what people believe, having an emergency solar charger isn't that expensive. So, I helped my neighbors to keep their cellphones charged.  We all learned to rely on solar energy, which we had plenty.I added the NOCO BLSOLAR5 5W Solar Battery Charger to my solar emergency system, which right now includes a few solar panels, batteries and inverters. This is an affordable way to have an emergency charger. This charger has many uses, but like I said before, in my experience this is the best one.This solar charger is low-priced, but it's great quality. I also like that the fuse included in the water-resistant fuse holder, can be replaced. The other two elements needed to complete an emergency solar charger kit are a rechargeable battery similar to this one12V 8.5AH Sealed Lead Acid (SLA) Battery for CSB GP 1272and a power inverter like this oneCobra CPI 480 400-Watt 12-Volt DC to 120-Volt AC Power Inverter with 5-Volt USB Output- I recommend both products because I own a couple of each, and they were a lifesaver.That's it, simply use the NOCO BLSOLAR5 5W Solar Battery Charger to keep a sealed AGM battery charged, and every couple of weeks half discharging it using the inverter as a way to maintaining it, and when another storm hits, you will be able, at least, to charge your cellphone.