System and method for charging users to recharge power supplies in portable devices

A system and method particularly suited for the re-charging of portable devices includes a charger having a charge port adapted for wired, contact, or contactless re-charging. Although the charger could be wired for connection to an electrical outlet, the charger is preferably wireless, and is either solar powered, or it can operate on batteries or fuel cells. The charger can be enabled/disabled by a payment unit depending on whether or not payment has been received from a user, and whether the amount paid is sufficient. The payment unit permits the charger to provide a charge for a predetermined amount so that the user can contactlessly recharge a device within a predetermined distance of the charge port. The type of device to be recharged and amount of recharge desired can be selected by a user directly, or after receiving a recommendation regarding the optimal/typical amount of recharge to be provided. A wireless charging unit permits recharging of the power source of a device in unconventional locations.