-How do Solar Lights work?

   Solar lights consist of three major components: a solar panel, the light itself (which is an LED light), and a battery. Solar panels are made of a semi-conducting material, often times silicon. When sunlight strikes the panel the light waves get converted into electric current through a process known as the photoelectric effect. The generated electricity is stored in the battery throughout the day, and is then used to power the LED light at night.

-What are the advantages of Solar Lighting?

   Solar lights are the safest and the easiest kind of outdoor lights to install. They require no external wiring. Solar lights have no operating costs. They are the most environmentally friendly form of lighting that you can find. You will never have to worry about the LED light burning out. They will pay for themselves with the amount of money saved on external energy costs.

-Are Solar Lights as bright as Regular Lights?

   Solar lights are generally not as bright as standard incandescent lights. When properly measured in lumens (candle feet), an outdoor LED light generates the equivalent brightness of a two watt bulb. However, the type of light generated by the LED light is much more efficient. The LED light is more intense and also has different angles of dispersion than its incandescent counter-parts which radiate in all directions. So, the light generated is much less harsh and glaring, which provides a softer, more natural looking light which can make any outdoor space look radiant instead of blinding.

-How are Solar Lights different from incandescent lights?

   Solar lights contain LEDs or Light Emitting Diodes in leu of a traditional light bulb. An LED, generally speaking, consists of a semi-conducting material that emits a light when an electric current is applied to it. LEDs offer several benefits over incandescent lights including lower energy consumption and a much longer lifetime.