Energy Independence One Step at a Time: Solar Outdoor Lighting

Energy Independence One Step at a Time: Solar Outdoor Lighting

For decades, solar power has been relegated to role of simple novelty, and until recently, it has not enjoyed mainstream success on any level. However, it is becoming increasingly popular in the grim face of global warming and rising energy costs. More and more, people are turning to solar power (as well as other alternative energy sources like wind and biofuels) to supplement or entirely replace their consumption of oil. Outdoor lighting is a beautiful addition to any home, but it can use up a substantial amount of electricity each year. By using solar outdoor lighting, you can save up to fifteen percent of your yearly energy needs simply by installing lighting fixtures equipped with solar panels.

Simple, Efficient Design

Solar outdoor lighting is designed to be beautiful but durable. Therefore, it tends to use a simple design to minimize the amount of parts that can potentially break, and because it is all inclusive, it is actually better able to withstand outdoor hazards like extreme weather much better than wired lighting. Because you'll end up paying a little bit more for solar outdoor lighting, you'll get a much sturdier package. Metals like nickel are commonly used instead of the brittle plastics favored by some of the cheaper traditional outdoor lighting systems, meaning these light fixtures look better and last longer than others.

Atop the lighting fixture rests a solar panel, using photovoltaic cells to convert sunlight into electricity. An internal battery charges up during the day, and then as night falls, the light will turn on, running for up to twelve hours on a single charge. Many solar powered outdoor lighting fixtures turn on automatically at night, and some include switches for manual control. Popular styles include such classy designs as Athenian, beveled glass, and cathedral lanterns, so you'll always find solar outdoor lighting that suits your personal tastes.

Replace all of your outdoor lighting fixtures with solar outdoor lighting, from pathways and landscaping to pools and security floodlights. There is a model to fulfill every need, and you can make your outdoor lighting power grid-independent for much less than you might think. A single solar outdoor lighting fixture can cost as little as twenty dollars, meaning the entire exterior can be revamped for a few hundred dollars. Considering the amount of money you'll save each year, you can make a net savings after just a few years, making solar outdoor lighting an intelligent investment.