Globally, approximately 325 million people suffer from some degree of hearing loss. Experts estimate that helping these people comes to a lifetime cost of around $300,000 per person. The cost to society includes more than just dollar cost: it includes the potential isolating impact on entire lives. This isolation can limit professional and educational opportunities and performance. Fortunately, in the developed world, this situation no longer applies to everyone with hearing loss. One reason is the hearing aid. While these devices do not restore all capabilities, they provide enough amplification to allow participation in day-to-day activities and interactions. Solar Ear by Deaftronics developed the first rechargeable hearing aid battery, which lasts for 2-3 years and can be used in 80% of hearing aids on the market today. It is solar powered and can be charged via the sun, household light, or a cell phone plug.