

However, solar lamps generally have a higher initial cost, and are weather dependent. In addition, solar lamps produce no indoor air pollution unlike kerosene lamps. Solar lamps have a lower operating cost than kerosene lamps because renewable energy from the sun is free, unlike fuel. Solar-powered household lighting can replace other light sources like candles or kerosene lamps. The lamp operates on electricity from batteries, charged through the use of solar panel (solar photovoltaic panel) She strives to educate adventurers on sustainable gear and the importance of buying eco-friendly products.Lamp powered by one or more solar panels A solar lamp in Rizal Park, Philippines A garden solar lampĪ solar lamp, also known as a solar light or solar lantern, is a lighting system composed of an LED lamp, solar panels, battery, charge controller and there may also be an inverter. Author Amanda Ogle is a veteran reporter who loves writing about sustainability and believes it is important that we all strive to be as environmentally friendly as we can.

Treehugger is committed to helping our readers reduce the environmental impact of our day-to-day lives. Both MPOWERD and Solight have programs that allow customers to donate solar lanterns to people in need. That's why a number of companies that make solar lanterns work with nonprofit partners to distribute lights to communities facing energy poverty and to areas hit by natural disasters. Solar lanterns can be an answer to this problem, as they harness the sun’s power to create light and don’t require a grid hookup or polluting kerosene. Furthermore, a lack of electricity means that millions of people around the world are still relying on kerosene lamps for light, which contribute to global warming and create poor indoor air quality. Solar Lanterns Can Have a Global ImpactĪccess to light is a basic human necessity, yet almost 1 billion people in the world don’t have access to electricity in order to have light. The Luci EMRG lantern is also a staple for its numerous lighting modes for emergencies. We love the LuminAID lantern for it’s long-lasting capability and ease for transport as well. It charges well even in low-ish indoor light, so you can leave it anywhere near a window and it will be all set." ~ Margaret Badore, Treehugger Senior Editor I hang it at the top of my tent, and it illuminates everything. "The Solar Puff is my lantern of choice on camping trips. Solar Puff can be packed flat and only weighs 2.6 ounces, it's an ideal choice for backpackers or for plane travel.

Worried about a lantern taking up space? Don’t be. The Solar Puff lantern is made from recyclable PET sailcloth with UV protection, and is made without PVC.Ī velcro handle makes it easy to hang the light if you wish, and it’s waterproof design means you can take it on all your adventures. Charge time is eight to 10 hours and gets you up to 12 hours of light. The lantern has a dusk-to-dawn light sensor mode and has three light settings (low, high, and blinking). Simply pull the lantern open and it's ready to use. Inspired by origami, this lantern collapses for easy, on-the-go light. Here, the best solar lanterns for every situation:

Whether you’re looking for a handy solar lantern for camping, something decorative for your patio or walking path, or something simple and effective for emergencies, there’s a solar lantern for it. They’re easy to tuck into an emergency bag or glovebox, so you’ll have a backup in case of emergency, although you’ll want to charge it up from time to time. Many models are lightweight and compact, making them better for camping and travel than heavy handheld torches and bulky lanterns that require D batteries. Most solar lanterns are also kind to the environment, thanks to long-lasting LED bulbs, durable materials, and no need for fossil fuels to operate them. Solar lanterns can also be a nice way to bring light to dark spots around the house or garden. You don’t have to worry about replacing batteries or running out of the right battery size, you don’t need to plug them in, and charging is free-just set them in the sun. Solar lanterns offer a number of advantages over flashlights and other plug-in lights.
