Solar powered LED lighting is increasingly being used for street lights, residential lighting and even safety lights for construction, schools and other uses.

There are several reasons that people are making the switch to solar LED lighting, because of its benefits:

1.  LED lights use DC (Direct Current) Power

When solar electricity is generated by panels, it is in the form of direct current (DC), rather than alternating current (AC) which is what you get when you plug into an electrical outlet.  Solar LED lights are especially efficient, compared to CFL or other lamps used in solar lighting because they do not require a converter.  This is because LED lights use DC power, which is the same as that which is generated by solar panels.  Any other type of lighting requires a converter before running on solar power, which results in a loss of energy.

2.  LED Lights Have Better Light Output

For solar lighting, use of LED lights have better light output.  They also can be used along the entire lighting spectrum, from bright blue-white to a soft warm glow.  Of course, LED lights come in clear (white) and colored lamps, which allow for creative applications ranging from holiday lights to solar garden lighting projects.

3.  LED Lights are Brighter and More Visible

This is my favorite feature of LED lights!  Not only are they brighter, which makes them more visible, even in daylight or foggy conditions, but they use less energy to burn so effectively (and efficiency).  Bright white LEDs have a superior CRI (color rendition index) for better illumination than traditional light bulbs.

4. LED Lights Use Less Energy

Solar LED lighting is a perfect fit because solar panels can easily generate enough power for their illumination.  Compared to CFLs, LEDs use 1/3 less power, and even less the energy required for incandescent lamps.  Because they are brighter and require less power, fewer LED street lights are required for the same amount of coverage, and municipalities and private property owners save money over time.

5.  LED Lights Last Longer

Solar panels last at least 25 years, so it only makes sense to use them with LED lights, as opposed to other types of lamps.  LEDs have at least a 10-year life expectancy, which is at least double that of halide or CFLs.  Solar LED lighting is a great example of install it and forget it when it comes to street lamps and other long-term light requirements.