Consumer Options for Solar Lights

By Robert Mann

Lower power bills and independence from the electricity grid are encouraging money conscious and environmentally concerned individuals to take a second look at solar lighting. With new options cropping up constantly, solar lights are quickly becoming a feasible alternative to traditional solutions.

Many homeowners invest in motion sensitive flood lights to illuminate key areas on the property and provide added security. Solar versions of these outdoor configurations provide the same results without the additional monthly cost.

Water lights work well with solar due to the self-containment of a solar light. For instance, the ambiance of a floating candle can be captured by a small floating light that contains solar cells on the top along with a bulb. Multiple floating lights will create an ongoing candle effect each night.

LED lights, which have revolutionized many areas of lighting, are one of the greatest contributors to the field of solar development. When clustered in the right combination, they can provide an efficient and strong beam of light for landscape lighting. This approach brings life to such landscape staples as statues and fountains after the sun has gone down.

Border lighting is a well-suited adaptation of solar power. These lights serve to mark the border of a walkway, lawn, or garden, and provide an accent to the yard rather than functional lighting. The effect can add a subtle beauty to a garden at night.

There are many ornamental designs that incorporate solar-powered lighting to bring life to the decorations at night. Examples include figurines and rocks that contain both the solar cells and the light source. Given that the energy source is solar, these outdoor decorations can be placed anywhere in the yard that has sun exposure.

Freestanding solar lamps make a practical addition to an outdoor table or sitting area. For tables that are shaded by an umbrella during the afternoon, there are solar umbrellas that capture energy during the day to power lights during the evening hours. Solar lamps are designed for the outdoors and able to withstand all types of weather. It is a good idea to visit a product ranking site to find the best products for a given category.

Solar power is quickly becoming a strong competitor for traditional electrical lighting. With the appeal of reduced energy costs and a smaller global footprint, consumers are growing more interested in making the move to solar. Even more appealing are the innovations that have made solar lighting more adaptable to outdoor spaces than their electric counterparts. - 30228

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