Solar energy is becoming one of the most applied forms of sustainable energy. It has been harnessed since the ages past. With newer technology and a better understanding of how to capture and apply it, there is growing awareness among the masses of exactly how much power the sun can give us to meet our needs. It isnât just plants and industries who are coming up with novel methods to apply solar power. Designers and other creative individuals are getting into the act as well after realizing the enormous potential for profit. From tastefully designed homes to gadgets, solar energy is paving the way for innovative applications.
Check out these trendy lighting devices that all run using the energy of our life giving star.
1. Solar powered courtesy light
Using a built-in motion detector, the solar powered courtesy light switches itself on when it detects motion. Since it runs on solar power, the fixture is devoid of wires, making it look so much neater. Fitted with LEDs, the light emitted is a calming white in color. All you need to do is charge the device once a week.
The solar powered courtesy light is able to detect motion at a 100-degree angle while dispersing light 8 feet in length. It has a 60-second illumination period and is easy to install and portable so you can set it up anywhere. It is also rainproof so you can place it in the outdoors without any worry. Simply bolt it on a wall, above your garage door or front entrance, screw the bracket into the wall, slide the light inside and lock it in place with the key provided. On purchase, youâll get the LED light, a solar battery, panel unit, wall bracket, screws, wall plugs and two keys.
2. Green glazed ceramic solar sphere lantern
Lanterns can spice up the living space of any home. The green glazed ceramic solar sphere lantern does the same but using solar power. Beautifully designed, this spherical piece can run for 8 hours at night. It uses an NiMh rechargeable battery which can also be replaced, allowing you to charge it in a standard charger.
Each lantern measures 5.3 inches in diameter and makes use of calming LED lights. Aside from the green model, you can also choose from terracotta and blue, the latter having star-shaped cutouts. These lanterns are perfect to add a bit of trendiness to a party or a dull room. Fun to use and pretty to look at, theyâre ideal for the eco conscious.
3. Solar drink coasters
Any woman would tell you that coasters are necessary when having a drink. If youâre one of those who canât be bothered with any ordinary coaster, then maybe these will change your mind. Innovative and fun, the solar drink coasters light up your drink when itâs dark. Why waste a small fortune spending on lamps to decorate a party when you can use these? The unique point is that the coasters have the ability to morph into different colors at intervals. Theyâre built to sense when you place your drink on top of them and light up accordingly. They can be used anywhere but look especially good in the outdoors.
4. Solar powered fairy lights
If youâre planning something outdoors, you know that lights play a crucial role. But with power bills having a tendency to sky rocket, you canât help but think twice about setting them up. These solar powered fairy lights are the answer to the problem. As long as you get enough sun to charge them during the day, be assured that theyâll run well in the night. Perfect for Christmas and the New Year, the lights are long enough to be strung around your favorite tree, bush or chair. Cables come in a length of 5, 10 and 28 meters. You can also choose a solar net to light up a certain portion of your garden. The lights are weather resistant too so you donât have to worry about inclement weather.
5. Guiding light mailbox
Talk about practical. The guiding light mailbox isnât just an ordinary mailbox â it has an internal illuminator that displays your house number in the dark. This widget fits over your normal mailbox and comes with six sets of numbers so you can choose them according to your house number. The device recharges in 4 hours of sunlight and lasts through the night. All you need to do is fix it over your mailbox and screw it in place. The solar panel is positioned on top and, like all solar devices, is able to capture energy even during cloudy days.
