Our Favorite Solar Powered Tools

Harness the energy of the sun with these solar-powered features for your home

The old joke about taking a job in Florida used to be that “you get paid in sunshine.” These days, as renewable and clean energy sources have become a priority again, that seems like a pretty good deal. A great place to start “cashing those paychecks” is at home, where so many solar powered tools and accessories are now commonplace.

Here are five solar powered accessories to get started with.

20000mAh Solar Charger

20000mAh Solar Charger
This power bank has four foldable (and removable) solar panels that are also waterproof, so don’t sweat it if you leave it out in the rain. Amazon

All of your portable electronics—tablets, smart phones, etc.—can be recharged time and time again with this little gem. With its four external battery pack, it’s designed to absorb five to six times more solar energy than competing solar chargers. And if you’re charging the power bank with a source other than the sun, just remove the panels to save space.

Jackery Portable Power Station

Jackery Portable Power Station
To charge this generator with solar energy, you’ll need the Jackery Solar Saga 60W/100W (sold separately). Amazon

This impressive generator can be recharged in 10 hours under full sunlight. Once it’s powered up, use it as a standard AC outlet. It’s compatible with appliances under 200W so it’s perfect for a CPAP machine, camping trips and for those days when severe storm has knocked out your home’s power.

LITOM Original Solar Lights Motion Sensor Light

LITOM Original Solar Lights Motion Sensor Light
This LED light absorbs sunlight during the day and then lights up for 20 seconds when motion is detected at night. Amazon

This wireless system can detect movement up to 26 feet away at a 120-degree angle. It’s perfect for your front porch, back yard, garage, driveway or deck.

Take Me Solar Lantern

Take Me Solar Lantern
A solar panel collects energy from the sun to charge the lantern’s battery, providing up to six hours of illumination. Amazon

Being ecologically responsible never looked so good. This hanging lantern is perfect for the patio or courtyard. We’d feel comfortable displaying it indoors as well—it’s safer than lighting a candle. Just remember to recharge it outdoors between indoor uses.

LITOM 12 LED Solar Landscape Spotlights

LITOM 12 LED Solar Landscape Spotlights
These LED lights have two brightness levels: They can stay illuminated for 12 hours in low-light mode or 6 hours in high-light mode. Amazon

These waterproof lights can take whatever storm comes their way. There are two installation options: Stick them into the yard with the included stakes or mount them on the wall with screws (also included). That makes these perfect for the garden, pathway, fences or even attics and cellars.