If you were to go out and ask the general population what they associate with the phrase solar pathway lighting, most would answer the lights on either side of the sidewalk leading up to a beautiful home. The consensus is almost always residential lighting. However, there are some other uses for pathway lights that are gaining in popularity.



Business Applications

One recent use that is being seen more and more is lighting the path to the main office entrance. Offices have found that when lighting their walkways for the clients leaving in the evening, and for the late-night crews such as janitors and night owls, the people are kept safe due to being able to see exactly where they need to walk. An added benefit is on winter nights, visitors and employees can see where ice has gathered and avoid it, unlike how it is with dark paths. Finally, crime decreases for the offices for the offenders can be seen easily in the lights.

Another creative application for solar path lights is being used by some small parks. An evening walk in a major park typically has street lamps lighting the way, but for smaller, more intimate parks and lakes, these lamps are not an option. So some park owners and communities have began to use the solar lights to light up the paths. This too helps keep visitors safe, decreases crime, and also encourages more people to visit the park at night for a romantic walk with their loved ones and families.

Country Drive

A recent trip of mine the the country led me to another use of solar pathway lighting: Lighting the long driveways up to the ranch or country business. Having these lights is quite helpful when arriving at nightfall, and give these businesses a quiet charm. The lights also make you feel more welcomed, just like a cowboy telling you to come on in.

An out-of-the-box thinker has found yet another unique use for outdoor path lighting: Lighting up the outer area of his parking lot. In the past, driving into a poorly lit parking lot of a small business could lead to trouble, such as hitting the curb or concrete stopping block due to not seeing it in time. With the lights positioned around the perimeter, it is much easier to see where you are going, helping the patrons of the stores to avoid accidents.

Cleaning Up A Dark Alley

The final usage that has formed into a smart idea was from a nearby neighborhood watch. In this neighborhood was an alleyway that was notorious for drug use, sexual activity and other bad things. All the neighbors pitched in and bought some solar outdoor lights and took it upon themselves to clean up the alley while installing the lights. Now the area is much more quiet and the local watch has been able to clean up their streets.

So next time you hear about solar pathway lighting, think of the creative ways you, too, can use them. Perhaps your idea will end up in a later article!