Blog

Solar Bollard lights are posts that line walkways and provide illumination to the surrounding area. They enhance a site’s beauty and provide security for visitors.   Not only this, but they also fulfill several functions, such as illuminating your outside area and allowing for precise, safe nighttime vision into your garden.   Usually, there are two types of bollard lights: hardwired and solar power. You can easily get your hands on them in the market. However, we must know that each approach has pros and cons.   If you are confused about which one you should get, then there is no need to worry anymore because today we will discuss the finest option for your outdoor space, with specifics regarding hardwired vs Solar Bollard Lighting.   So, without any further ado, let’s get into it! Solar Bollard Lighting The energy source for solar Bollard lights is the sun. There is no need for mains power to your home because they are equipped with a solar cell fixed to the fixture.   At night, the cell’s stored power in a solar battery turns the LED light on. Though solar lighting can offer many advantages, there are also some drawbacks. You can choose the best lighting for your outdoor settings by reading the pros and cons below.   Pros: Because solar lights use the sun’s free energy, they comparatively reduce your electricity costs. Installing them is simple, as many Solar Bollards lights are easy fixed to the ground using standard house tools. As Solar Bollards they run on renewable energy, they are eco-friendly and lessen your carbon impact. Cons: Although the initial cost of solar lights is lower, battery changes are necessary to maintain proper operation. It might increase their expenses in the long run. Because dirt, fallen, snow, and leaves can cover the solar panels on the fixture, they do need to be occasionally cleaned and maintained. Solar lighting requires sunlight to charge, potentially restricting the locations they can be installed. Hardwired Landscape Lighting Hardwired bollard lights must be connected to the appropriate electrical wiring, like other lights in your house, to turn on or off. The following are some pros and cons of wired lighting in outdoor areas.   Pros: Since wired lights don’t need batteries to be changed, their initial cost is primarily one-time. They can begin working as soon as the wiring is installed. They can offer more reliable lighting than solar, depending on where they are installed. Cons: These light bulbs are not cost-effective if non-renewable energy sources power your home. Precautions must be taken during installation to prevent any electrical accidents. Your electricity costs will go up if you use these lights. Which Is Better for Landscape Lighting: Solar or Wired? After reading about the advantages and disadvantages of wired and solar lighting, you’ll probably wonder which one fits you best. So, compare these options to find the ideal one for your outside space.   1. Installation   Since Solar Bollard Lights don’t require complex wiring, installing them only requires reading the instructions in the guide. Moreover, the cell is already fixed to the fixture when they arrive, which makes it even easier for you to get the job done.   2. Price   Solar Bollard Lighting can save you money in several ways, including eliminating the need for costly wiring, requiring a technician to install them, lowering the cost of electrical power, and obtaining them for less. However, these lights continue to require expenditures because you must change the batteries, particularly if they are fitted in significant numbers. The initial costs of installing wired lights include hiring a professional, buying pricey cables, and installing them. Furthermore, outdoor lamps are more expensive because the bulbs are made of durable materials. Because these lights consume electricity, the cost of electricity also increases. Still, the solar lighting can operate for over 5 years after installation without requiring repair or upkeep, making it a cost effective option.   3. Maintenance   It’s pretty simple to maintain solar lights because all you have to do is change the batteries. No advanced math is required, and you can maintain it independently. Sounds good, right? But remember that cleaning the cells is key to effectively absorbing light. And here comes the best part: the materials used to make these lights are sturdy enough to withstand harsh weather.   4. Visual Appeal   Solar lights can effectively create a mellow glow outside that visually brightens areas. They are ideal for highlighting walkways and gardens.   5. Lifespan   LED solar bulbs have an extended lifespan of over ten years. However, batteries and solar cells need to be replaced every few years. Put another way, batteries have a shorter lifespan than solar lamps. LED lights that are wired have a 15-year lifespan. So, go for wired lights if you want to avoid having to change your bulbs frequently. Things to Consider Before Selecting an Outdoor Light When selecting the right type of light for your outdoor space, there are a few more things that you need to take into account. The lights can be chosen according to your budget, the area you wish to light, and the use for which you want them.   Let us explore these variables:   Space and Design   Solar Flood Lighting/lights are a good option if you wish to light up smaller spaces like walkways. But if you want to light up a more extensive area, go for wired lights. Solar lights are ideal for illuminating corners and areas beneath staircases, among other awkward places. For this, wired spotlights are an additional option.    Must-have Functions   Selecting the ideal landscape lighting will be easier for you if you know why it’s being installed. For instance, solar-powered bulbs are the perfect option to promote a tranquil atmosphere in your yard. If you enjoy entertaining and want a bright, alert atmosphere, one more thing that makes wired lightning an ideal choice is that you can easily control lightning

The continuously growing solar market has driven so many product innovations, which introduced new miraculous things in the industry for customers that are both cost-effective and sustainable.   And it won’t be wrong to say that Solar Bollard Lights are one of those miracles! These easy-to-install lights are undoubtedly perfect for landscapes and outdoor lighting, ultimately enhancing and beautifying your space even more than one can imagine. But wait — do you know what aspect fascinates people the most? It’s nothing other than their environment-friendly nature, their reasonable price, and the fact that they consume very little energy.   Not only this, but they require quite minimal maintenance, and their integrated solar panels perfectly capture maximum sunlight to charge the battery and give power to the light at night. Curious to explore more about its cost? Keep reading! The Cost of Solar Bollards Lighting With all the functionalities this product has to offer, people who want to purchase it often wonder, “What if they are highly expensive for those remarkable features?” Or, “How much do Solar Bollards lighting cost?”   If you’re one of them, let’s resolve your queries, as we’ve divided their cost into three sections: Initial Purchase Costs   The initial cost of these lights can significantly vary from one seller to another. But in general, you can expect to pay somewhere around $300 for a quality solar lighting bollard that will last. So first, you will have to choose the brand, quality, features, and design you like and then evaluate the final cost. It is obvious that top-notch models with the latest features, like higher lumens and enhanced battery life, would come at a higher price.   On the other hand, if you opt for a budget-friendly model with basic functions, you can purchase it easily without breaking the bank.   Installation Costs   You’ll be glad to know that Solar Bollard lights require low maintenance compared to other solar lights on the market. The primary prices for this maintenance may increase if you want to do battery replacement.   However, occasional cleaning can be done easily by yourself, which ensures that your solar lights function effectively and smoothly. As far as the battery replacement costs are concerned, you can expect to spend $55 on them. But there’s nothing to worry about, as you won’t have to replace them for at least 4 – 5 years.   Maintenance Costs   Traditional lighting systems are powered by electricity, which in turn is driven by non-renewable energy resources like fossil fuels. Electricity generation needs proper generator systems and the energy source to run them. So here we are using non-renewable energy sources, which is not efficient because we are already facing the depletion of natural resources. That’s why a wired bollard system is not a win in the case of energy efficiency. To the extent we are using carbon-based reserves to produce electricity, we will soon be left empty-handed, and the world will face energy depletion.  However, solar bollard lights use renewable energy, i.e., sunlight, which lowers electricity expenditure and decreases carbon flows. The Cost of Solar Bollards Lighting Want to buy Solar Bollard Lighting but can’t afford it? No worries! Here are some ways that will help you save on these lights significantly:   Tip #1. Choose Quality Over Quantity   You may find it expensive to invest in high-quality Solar Flood Lighting initially, but believe me, it is the best decision you can make. Let me tell you why! When you invest in cheap lights, they’ll mess up things, and you may have to change them again and again and incur additional costs without knowing.   Whereas you can save money in the long run by investing in a product that is made with durable materials. This way, the frequent maintenance costs will be considerably reduced, too. Isn’t it a more suitable option?   Tip #2. DIY Installation   Are you handy with tools? Then, don’t worry about its installation costs, and consider doing this task yourself. By this, you can surely save a significant amount of money that professional installers usually demand.   Just see the straightforward installation manual and understand how it works, and the rest will be easy. Their convenient installation makes it feasible for homeowners to do it all by themselves without help. Are Solar Bollard Lights Suitable For You? The straight answer is “yes.” Solar Street Lighting is a great option for illuminating walkways and pathways — providing easy and safe navigation around your precious outdoor space.   In addition, they can light up parking areas and driveways, which makes it a convenient, cost effective, and energy efficient way to illuminate large areas. Conclusion Solar energy assists in protecting our environment and also reduces greenhouse gas emissions. For the unmatched features of this technology, almost 8% of households in the U.S. have installed solar lighting devices at home.   However, some people remain curious about the costs of Solar Bollards Lighting to make an informed decision. So, in this enlightening blog, we’ve covered every aspect you need to know about its price, saving tips, and more.   And if you’re looking for high quality Solar Bollards, solar floodlights or solar street lights at a budget-friendly cost, Solar Lighting Designs will definitely help you in this regard. Their lights are equipped with advanced technology and innovative design – giving optimal performance in all kinds of environments.

With technological advancements, life is getting more convenient every day. However, taking lighting systems as an example, the variety of choices can make life more complex. Right?     Every option comes with its advantages and drawbacks, so we need to be a bit more aware of all alternatives plus their possible impacts and benefits to make the best life-saving decision. Talking about bollard lighting, we have two options: mains powered or solar bollard lights. As there are so many options on the market, the different brands and price ranges can make the choice overwhelming.   The ultimate answer is to compare and make meaningful differences between them and then select one option as per our choice. Here, we will provide you with all the possible facts about both traditional and solar bollard lighting systems to help you make an informed choice. Comparing Solar and Traditional Lighting Bollards: Key Differences Installation   Most of the labour with traditional light bollards is done in the groundwork and installation steps. During the process of planning the whole procedure, an electrician is needed as any installation which involves 240v power requires a qualified electrician. Overall, traditional bollards are not a walk in the park if we consider the installation process.   Solar street lighting does not need any ground wiring, making it simple to install. The whole installation process comprises scaffolding, installing the solar panel mounts, and bonding the inverter to the solar battery. Solar streetlights can be planted anywhere that receives sunlight; they look elegant and illuminating.  Additionally, SLD can handle the installation process for you, providing peace of mind throughout the entire purchasing process. Maintenance   Have you ever considered how much it costs to change a burnt-out 240v bollard? Wired lighting bollards need regular maintenance, which comprises electrical testing, bulb replacements, and repairs. Voltage problems or circuit breaks can also damage these lights. We need to consider all these facts while installing these traditional lighting bollards.   Solar bollard lights need minimal maintenance, other than the occasional cleaning of the solar panel and needing to replace the battery every 5 – 7 years. These systems don’t have any moving parts and do not demand routine bulb replacements. This can save money, energy, and effort over the course of the fixture. SLD’s products come with a minimum of 2 years warranty,  such as the Andromeda Premium White. Environmentally Friendly   Unfortunately, the traditional bollard lighting system is not eco-friendly as they rely on power produced from the burning of fossil fuels, increasing pollution and global warming. With the use of electricity, the carbon footprint of traditional bollards is relatively high. It means that installing these lights can increase the environmental impact.   Solar bollard lights have a negligible environmental influence as they do not depend on fossil fuels or involve greenhouse gas discharges. Solar Lighting Designs provides you with amazing street lamps like Halo Vandal Resistant Solar Bollard, which are corrosion-free. This means you are investing in an everlasting and reliable product.   These bollard lights do not eject any greenhouse gases, and this makes them a nonpolluting alternative to traditional solutions. Energy Efficiency   Traditional lighting systems are powered by electricity, which in turn is driven by non-renewable energy resources like fossil fuels. Electricity generation needs proper generator systems and the energy source to run them.   So here we are using non-renewable energy sources, which is not efficient because we are already facing the depletion of natural resources. That’s why a wired bollard system is not a win in the case of energy efficiency. To the extent we are using carbon-based reserves to produce electricity, we will soon be left empty-handed, and the world will face energy depletion.    However, solar bollard lights use renewable energy, i.e., sunlight, which lowers electricity expenditure and decreases carbon flows. Cost Savings   When considering traditional lighting bollards, installation costs can vary far and wide. Factors such as the physical infrastructure and complexity of the wiring can drive the expenses up or down. Faults in any wiring channel can cause damage to all the connected lights, resulting further costs.   Moreover, traditional lights exhaust a substantial amount of electricity. The functioning costs can pile up over time, especially in locations where electricity consumption rates are high.   However, solar bollards offer distinct cost advantages as you don’t have to pay for them continually. Furthermore, the installation process is easier and cheaper than mains powered lighting, as there is no requirement for cabling or trenching, which can be very expensive. Conclusion Installing solar street lights increases safety and further contributes to making the globe greener. Furthermore, the cutback on electricity and cabling costs is a huge plus. Solar lighting is becoming popular as people become more environmentally conscious. Nevertheless, traditional lighting bollards have been a tried and tested option for decades.   When put side by side, solar bollard lighting comes out on top in terms of both cost and environmental friendliness. SLD offers the high quality solar lighting products, providing you with the best solar lighting system at your doorstep.

In recent years, the shift towards renewable energy has gained significant momentum, with solar lighting emerging as a frontrunner in this ecological revolution. Not only is using solar energy for illumination a smart financial move, but it’s also a victory for the environment. We’ll look at the different ways that solar lighting can result in significant cost savings in this post, which makes it an investment that is worthwhile. The Rising Popularity Of Solar Lighting Solar lighting, as a sustainable alternative to traditional electric lights, has seen a remarkable rise in popularity. This surge is not only due to the growing environmental consciousness but also because of the tangible economic benefits it offers. From street lights to garden lamps, solar lighting is illuminating the path to a cost-effective and eco-friendly future. The Immediate Reduction in Energy Bills A direct advantage of converting to solar illumination is the instant savings on energy costs. Without requiring grid power, solar lights work by turning sunlight into electricity. This conversion process, devoid of any external fuel source, means that once you install solar lights, the cost of lighting drops to almost zero. The savings become apparent in your monthly electricity bills, making solar lighting an investment that pays for itself over time. Low Maintenance and Durability Contrary to popular belief, solar lighting systems require minimal maintenance. These systems are designed for durability, with most solar panels guaranteed to last for about 25 years. The LED lights used in solar fixtures also have a longer lifespan compared to traditional bulbs. This longevity means fewer replacements and repairs, translating to more savings in the long run. The Environmental Impact And Long-Term Savings In addition to the short-term financial gains, solar illumination lessens environmental impact, which results in long-term savings. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and depending less on fossil fuels are just the start. Reduced Carbon Footprint The implementation of solar lighting directly contributes to the reduction of carbon emissions. Traditional electricity generation is predominantly reliant on fossil fuels, an activity that substantially contributes to the phenomenon of global warming. After the panels are installed, however, solar energy becomes renewable, non-emitting of greenhouse gases, and environmentally friendly. This transition contributes to the mitigation of climate change and fosters environmental well-being, which may potentially lead to a reduction in healthcare expenditures linked to pollution. Incentives and Rebates Many governments and local authorities offer incentives for adopting renewable energy sources, including solar lighting. These incentives can further lower the initial installation cost and take the shape of tax credits, rebates, or grants. By utilising these financial incentives, transitioning to solar illumination can be done at a lower total cost, which accelerates return on investment. The Technological Advancements In Solar Lighting Solar energy is a fast developing sector, and advances in technology have made solar lights more efficient and affordable than ever. The efficiency and utility of modern solar lights are increased by features like motion sensors, smart connection, and automatic dusk-to-dawn operation. Improved Efficiency and Performance The efficiency of solar panels has increased dramatically due to recent advancements in photovoltaic technology. This implies that in order to generate the same quantity of electricity, contemporary solar lighting systems need fewer panels, which lowers the initial installation cost. Additionally, improvements in battery technology have led to more effective storage of solar energy, ensuring consistent lighting even during overcast conditions. Harnessing Efficiency for Maximum Savings The modern solar lighting systems are not just about harnessing solar energy; they’re also about doing it efficiently. With advancements like maximum power point tracking (MPPT) controllers, these systems ensure that they extract the most power possible from the sun. This efficiency translates into fewer solar panels required for the same output, optimising the cost-effectiveness of the installation. Case Studies: Real-World Examples Of Cost Savings To truly understand the impact of solar lighting on cost savings, it’s instructive to look at real-world examples. Various municipalities, businesses, and homeowners have already embraced solar lighting, reaping significant financial benefits. Municipalities Leading the Way Many cities worldwide have replaced traditional street lights with solar alternatives, resulting in substantial savings in public funds. For instance, a city that replaced 10,000 streetlights with solar-powered ones reported a 60% reduction in energy costs annually. These savings can be redirected to other essential community services. Businesses Cutting Down Operational Costs Similarly, businesses that have switched to solar lighting for their premises, parking lots, and signage have seen a drop in their operational costs. A retail store that installed solar lights in its parking lot reported a 50% decrease in its outdoor lighting costs, positively impacting its bottom line. Homeowners Enjoying Long-term Benefits Homeowners are also part of this solar revolution. Many have reported significant savings on their energy bills after installing solar-powered garden lights, security lights, and even solar-powered decorative lighting. The initial investment in solar lighting is quickly offset by the savings in monthly utility bills. User Testimonials: Voices From The Community Hearing directly from individuals and organisations who have made the switch to solar lighting can be powerful. User testimonials often highlight not just the cost savings, but also the ease of installation, the low maintenance requirements, and the satisfaction of contributing to a greener planet. “A Smart Decision for Our Home” A homeowner from California shared, “Switching to solar garden lights was one of the best decisions we made. We enjoy our evenings outdoors more, and our energy bill has never been lower. It’s a smart, cost-effective, and beautiful addition to our home.” “A Game-Changer for Our Business” The owner of a small business noted, “Installing solar lights in our parking lot was a game-changer. The initial cost was quickly offset by the savings, and our customers appreciate the well-lit and safe environment. It’s a win-win for us.” Lighting The Way Forward The journey towards a sustainable future is illuminated by the adoption of solar lighting. The cost savings associated with solar lighting are clear and significant, ranging from immediate reductions in energy bills to long-term environmental benefits. Whether for a city,

The Venus Solar floodlight is a purpose-built, high lumen output, commercial grade solar flood light manufactured from the highest quality components. The remote allows for programming of the solar flood light including the LED output, time/mode of operation and selection of a sensitive 360° radar sensor system where the light will operate at a set output until the movement activated radar is triggered, instantly switching to full output. The 3,300 lumens produced by our solar floodlights are set at a 120° angle ensure large areas are illuminated effectively. A quality 50W solar panel and sturdy mounting hardware are included. The 5000mm of cabling enable the panel to be remote located to achieve maximum photovoltaic conversion or the light head to be installed under cover. Custom programming allows the Venus solar floodlights to operate when the solar panel is exposed to sunlight allowing the fitting to be installed in a workshop, horse stable or shed. To learn more about solar floodlights, or any other of the solar lights that we sell in Australia, visit the products online or give us a call at 1300 76 52 65.

Solar-powered technology has already revolutionised the way we generate and use energy. Not only do solar-powered systems provide a clean, sustainable, and cost-effective source of energy, they do so for a wide range of applications. One such application is the use of solar lights for signs, especially road markers, also known as solar road studs or solar pavement markers. Ready to learn more about how solar-powered technology can better road safety? Can Solar Technology Be Used For Road Markers? Did you know that the smallest solar panel is the size of your thumbnail? That’s right.  Solar panels don’t just come in the size you see on your roof or the lights on the streets. Since it is possible to design solar panels that can fit a gadget that measures 15cm by 12cm, solar technology can be used for road markers. Wondering why we need solar-powered technology for road markers? Traditional Road Markers Vs Solar Road Markers Road markers, also known as road reflectors or raised pavement markers, are used to enhance the visibility of roads at night and in inclement weather. They are typically made of reflective material and are placed on the road surface to guide drivers and alert them to potential hazards.  Pre-solar technology, different materials were used to provide driving aids on roads. Depending on their placement, road authorities would use either paint, reflective tape, or raised markers with and without retroreflecting lenses. Over time, road markers come equipped with flashing lights and batteries. While their construction material differs, these driving aids serve one purpose–to guide drivers and alert them to potential hazards. Solar road markers are similar to cat’s eyes, the difference being their capacity to harness the sun’s power. A solar road stud typically has an aluminium body with slots to attach it to the ground. The solar panel rests directly under the heavy-duty top face. Reflectors and LED lights are placed on the sides. Their functioning is simple–during the day, the solar panel helps make solar energy, which is then stored in the supercapacitor. Once the road marker no longer sense any sunlight, the LEDS switch on. Traditional road markers have a variety of limitations. Whether paint or reflective tape type, they need regular maintenance and replacement, which can be costly and time-consuming. Similarly, electrical road markers need to be powered by batteries or the electrical grid–power sources that have several limitations–batteries need to be replaced approximately every three years or in rural areas, connecting road markers to the electrical grid can be difficult and expensive. Solar-powered road markers, however, are powered by the sun. They need neither electrical grid connectivity nor batteries. The supercapacitors used in solar road markers only need replacement every 8-10 years, reducing the long-term running cost of solar road markers. Read on to learn why solar-powered road markers are a viable alternative to their traditional counterparts. Benefits Of Solar Road Markers One of the key benefits of solar lights for signs and road markers is that they are highly reliable. Solar road markers can work for years without needing maintenance, and they are not affected by power outages or other issues that can disrupt traditional road markers. They are especially useful in remote areas or where traditional road markers are impractical, such as on bridges or in tunnels as they don’t require any additional infrastructure. Solar-powered road markers are also environmentally friendly, as they do not produce emissions or pollutants. Solar road markers are also versatile and can be used in a variety of applications, ranging from highways, rural roads, and even on private property, such as in parking lots or industrial parks. They can also be customised to meet specific needs, such as using different colours or flashing patterns for different types of roads or hazards. Conclusion Overall, using solar lights for signs is a reliable, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective alternative to traditional lights. Solar road markers also have the potential to improve safety on roads and extend this safety to remote or rural areas. As they are a prime example of how solar technology can be used to improve our daily lives, continuous improvement in technology and a decrease in costs will hopefully result in the widespread use of solar-powered road markers.

Solar Lighting Designs stock a wide range of commercial solar lights for private and commercial use. Apart from the operational and installation cost savings when comparing solar lights to mains powered lighting alternatives, our range of lighting also offers aesthetic and security benefits for our residential and commercial customers.The aesthetic ambient lighting provided by solar bollards is the perfect addition to heighten any home garden. With simple installation, high quality manufacturing that ensures the products withstand the elements and no ongoing operation costs, all our commercial solar bollards offer our customers hassle free lighting solutions. Additionally, our solar bollards and solar floodlights can be used to illuminate pathways leading to homes, minimising the risk of accidents at night. While there are obvious aesthetic and safety benefits to outdoor commercial solar lights, as well as economic benefits when compared to AC powered lighting alternatives, a readily overlooked benefit is one of home security. Significant study has gone into the effects of residential and street lighting on criminal behaviour, and results have shown that robbery is significantly reduced through increased ambient lighting around the home. “The assumed anonymity from darkness promotes moral transgressions; darkness also impairs vision and hence reduces the ability to detect an approaching robber and subsequently identify them” (Fotios, Robbins and Farrall, 2021). Due to this, solar lighting bollards and solar floodlights have the benefit of acting as solar security lights, deterring criminals from breaking into your property. To learn more about solar bollard lights, solar floodlights, or any other of the solar lights that we sell in Australia, visit the products online or give us a call at 1300 76 52 65.