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With more than 834,000 photovoltaic panel installations in 2023 alone, solar power is becoming more trendy than ever as a way of cutting bills. Nevertheless, rooftop panels aren't the only way to save electricity... In recent years, a new solution has emerged: solar outdoor lighting. So, how does it work? Is it really worth it? What models are on the market? We explain.
Solar outdoor lighting: how does it work?
L'solar outdoor lighting works on the same principle as photovoltaic panels. It transforms the energy produced by the sun into electricity. A solar-powered luminaire is equipped with a photovoltaic panel that stores light and converts it into electricity. To put it simply, during the day, it charges its batteries, releasing the energy when needed at nightfall.
One might therefore think that this solution is only effective in regions with high levels of sunshine... In fact, as with photovoltaic panels, the first solar-powered luminaires on the market needed a lot of sunshine to be effective. But today, thanks to new technologies and in particular the integration of more sensitive sensors, solar luminaires are able to capture energy even on grey days. However, recharging time is longer, especially in winter.
The benefits of solar outdoor lighting
Now that we've seen how solar lighting works, let's take a look at all its advantages.
Installation made easy
There's no need for unsightly cable ducts. The solar luminaire is completely self-sufficient in electricity, so installation is totally cable-free. The only complexity is finding a place for it and fixing it if you opt for a wall light. And what's the right place? Well, it all depends on the model you choose. Generally speaking, it's advisable to position your luminaire facing south, so that it benefits from maximum sunlight. However, with their rechargeable sensors, Lumihome solar solutions can be placed under a roof overhang or in the shade, even in poor light conditions. This is the case of theLIBERTYfor example.
A sustainable solution
Solar outdoor lights are long-lasting, provided you choose a quality device. Indeed, cheap fixtures often have little or no waterproofing, which can lead you to change them prematurely. "On the other hand, don't be afraid to invest in a recognized brand like Lumihome, adds Christophe Coelho. The battery in solar garden lights tends to deteriorate more quickly, and the cost of replacing it should not be overlooked. Some brands don't offer this battery for sale. In this case, it's impossible to replace the battery, and you'd have to replace the whole device. At Lumihome, the batteries in our luminaires are interchangeable, with the aim of making them long-lasting and therefore more environmentally friendly. What's more, they come with a 3-year warranty."
A nice gesture for the planet
Solar lighting doesn't emit CO2 or gases, since it's powered by sunlight. By opting for this clean lighting system, you're taking action against global warming and helping to preserve the environment.
Savings at stake
With the ever-increasing price of electricity, there's no room for small savings. Although the price of a luminaire may seem high at the outset, it will quickly pay for itself on your electricity bill. The same applies to local authorities. In France, it is estimated that public lighting accounts for 41% of electricity consumption by local authorities. To tackle this energy crisis, many local authorities are equipping themselves with solar streetlights. A solar streetlight may cost twice as much as a conventional one, but at the price of electricity, the return on investment is quickly realized.
A high-performance lighting solution
Let's face it, the solar lighting market has a bad reputation. But why? Water infiltration, oxidation, mediocre light... We're back to the low-quality systems sold in discount stores. Today, however, (real) professionals in the sector are integrating a high-performance technology into their luminaires: the monocrystalline panel. The benefits? Whatever the sun's rays (direct or indirect), it stores energy and releases it over an 8-hour period.
The different types of solar lighting
Illuminate the garden path, light up the terrace, sublimate a flower bed, highlight the pool at nightfall... Depending on your needs and desires, you'll find many different types of solar lighting.
Outdoor solar lighting models available
- Solar-powered wall sconces: this light can be mounted on a wall to illuminate a porch, garage entrance or terrace. With its lantern-like design, Lumihome's LUXOR will delight fans of trendy decor. While the VENUS and ALTO wall lights will fit in perfectly with a more minimalist exterior.
- Solar floodlights: adjustable, they're ideal for illuminating clumps or specific areas. Our LED model delivers 2,000 lumens.
- Recessed spotlights: perfect for highlighting driveways, swimming pools or even olive trees. The solar spotlight kit adds a beautiful ambient light, ideal for long summer evenings.
- Solar-powered bollards: to mark out your driveway, but also to delimit the contours of your terrace, solar-powered LED bollards are simply perfect. They can be installed in just 5 minutes, and are extremely powerful.
Practical, life-changing options
For even greater energy savings, Lumihome bollards, solar wall lights and floodlights switch on automatically at dusk, and are equipped with a motion detector and 3 different lighting modes:
- Mode 1: permanent low-intensity lighting designed to last all night long.
- Mode 2: slightly brighter, permanent lighting that intensifies when the motion detector detects a presence.
- Mode 3: the luminaire switches on with the most powerful lighting module only when the motion detector detects a presence.
Reliable, high-performance, economical, aesthetic, environmentally friendly... When you choose the right outdoor solar lighting, you'll have an excellent alternative for illuminating your outdoor space free of charge and without polluting the environment. So, what are you waiting for?
