When Ballardite Jennifer Brantley read about a man who was using solar power on his trailer during Hurricane Katrina, a spark lit off in her brain.

She could do the same thing here in Seattle. After all -- as a former solar consultant, and coming from a family line of electricians -- she has the experience. She could start a mobile solar power company that would serve people who need energy off the grid, and who don't want to use noisy diesel generators.

Brantley, who just started her new mobile solar company at the end of July, completed her vision after more than a year's worth of work. It's called the Northwest Solar Rover.

By all appearances, the Solar Rover looks like your typical trailer. Something that you might use when you're moving. Except one rather obvious difference: There's great big solar panels on the side on the top. On the outside of the trailer, there are several plug-ins to hook various items into. Cellphones, laptops, amps, lights. Whatever. On the inside is a large battery pack that can be charged up and be reserved for future use.

Perhaps the best part, for those used to rackety diesel generators, is that the solar rover is completely quiet. It doesn't even hum. And, of course, it's better for the environment.

Right now, she only has one rover that she rents out to people for various uses, from food trucks and camping trips to weddings and, yes, even a medieval fair. She says the possibilities are endless and new ideas are always coming in.

Currently, the Solar Rover costs $285 to rent out for a full day, but she said she is still feeling out the price. The deal is she brings the Solar Rover to you, so you don't have to worry about picking it up.

While she says she is trying to make a profit off the company, if a disaster were to happen in Seattle like Hurricane Katrina, Brantley wouldn't think twice about helping out with her solar rover.

To learn more, visit their website at www.nwsolarrover.com or follow them at www.facebook.com/NorthwestSolarRover.

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