We can expect for solar power to continue to rise like the sun as the king among the renewable resources of energy to be well utilized in 2020. But for now, as people are becoming more aware of the clean and green living which provides means of cutting the costs of electricity, the eco-world is focusing its attention on the world’s first solar light bulb.
Introduced all over the globe on the 10th of June, this standard structured incandescent bulb carries the hope of lighting up the dark areas of many developing countries where electricity does not exist. Yes, there are still corners of the globe where more than a billion people in total burn something to generate light. They mostly use kerosene lamps, exposing themselves to the emission and fire hazards of this dirty fuel as they struggle to live off the grid. With the knowledge of solar panels that can charge batteries and can power the usual lamps, a Hong Kong based manufacturer came up with a brilliant idea, and then there was light, in the form of a solar light bulb promoted for deployment in these lighting-deprived areas.
Let us get to know this solar light bulb a little deeper. How is it different from other solar LED lantern designs that have been in the market for several years now? What makes it ideal for deployment in electricity infrastructure-less villages and disaster zones?
This solar light bulb is very much similar in shape and size of the conventional luminous bulb. But as a matter of fact, this device is very self-sufficient. It makes use of an array of light-emitting diodes or what we call LED, and four small strips of photovoltaic panels. Its groundbreaking design is small enough to carry, self-contained, and highly durable and dependable. It is enclosed in a rainproof impact resistant plastic which aims to be of no trouble to any lifestyle, even in the third world. Its features include a replaceable nickel metal hydride battery that provides a good four hours of light when fully charged and lasts for two years.
However, this does not come cheap. A single unit is priced at $15 each with the objective of government aid groups and non-government organizations to purchase and distribute it to villages, disaster areas and anywhere else it is needed. It is also intended to be sold at $6 in rural parts of India and Africa and highly discounted in bulk orders. It is still a big question if it could really replace the kerosene lamp they are accustomed with or be of interest to them at all.
The idea is whether you live with a short supply of electricity or you want your electricity cost and usage cut short, there is the solar light bulb. Along with the countless ways of conserving energy, developing a cleaner world and maintaining the basic needs of light, food, water and shelter, the world is never gonna be short of people who suggests these means to the rest of the population for a friendlier earth.
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