When we think of solar energy we normally think of the solar panels we see on house roof tops
, but there are more decorative and affordable ways to benefit from the suns energy around our homes. Investment in solar energy generation over recent years has seen improvements in solar efficiency which has led to a reduction in cost and a diversification in to other product markets giving rise to a wide range of other products for our homes and gardens.
Our gardens have particularly benefitted from solar development, not only with products that we would normally use now being available as solar powered such as PIR (passive infra-red) solar security lights or pond fountains and filtration but also from the explosion of new products that are available to add features to the garden that can also be enjoyed after the sun has gone down.
Solar development has also brought us Solar on Demand technology in some products that allow us to store the suns energy during the day in built-in batteries and use it when we are around to enjoy it. Underwater solar panels have also been developed for use in garden fountains or birdbaths and for floating pond pumps so there is no need to have a separate solar panel attached by a cable.
Product design has also improved. Products have moved on from the plastic post lights that lined the path or were placed in the borders to light up our garden at night, products are now designed as features themselves and made from many different materials from stainless steel to natural slate to enhance our garden. Hanging Solar Lanterns or Solar Table Lights are available to brighten the decking or patio area or Solar String Lights to drape over the pagoda or around the shrubs.
The practical use of solar power hasnt been overlooked either. Solar Security Lights and Utility Lights have been developed so they are easy to install in the shed or those areas where you need light but dont have mains electricity. Even if there is electricity, why pay for an electrician to install or pay to run the light when the suns energy is free?