Now, you may have had all the Apple rumors you can take of late, but here's one we seriously hope is coming down the pike. According to a story on an environmental news site, Apple is acquiring patents for solar power and energy efficiency in their gadgets. An iPod that runs on (not just charged by) solar power?

Before the gadgets go solar, they may be able to communicate with home energy regulation programs. One big tenant of operating with an efficiency program like HomePlug Alliance is eliminating the overcharging problem (which can waste up to 10% of your home's energy).

And after filing their second solar-related patent this week, signs point the way of iPhones, Macbooks, and maybe even the rumored Apple Tablet to be powered by the sun.

Find the whole story here, at Mother Nature Network, and even more here at Engadget.

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(Image: Flickr member basky_obed, licensed under Creative Commons.)