As you are well aware, solar technology is triumphantly out from the dark corners of the science labs and is beginning to pop up in all manner of places, in all manner of forms. So much so, that, possibly, one of its first steps out into the big wide world of usability – the lamplight – has become almost archaic through its once thought modern innovation. Since the emergence of micro-paneling and PV cell film development, there has been an upsurgence in solar gadgetry and accessories: everything from solar rechargeable mobile phones, to summer tote bags that power all the gizmos you can carry inside the bag. But here at EcoSwitch, we don’t pick-and-choose one over the other; we’re a huge fan of all that is solar synchronizable, and we’re proud of where it started from. That’s why when Glowstar announced “A Revolution In Lighting”, we were over enamored to see that what stood in its wake was a rural lamplight.
But, wait! Let’s not do Glowstar‘s design injustice. This, after all, is not just your average lamplight. Practical action has been undertaken to ensure that this seemingly simplistic light can make the very most out of the energy it can harvest.
The brainchild of a British non-profit consultancy called Intermediate Technology Consultants (ITC); the product, after trials in Kenyan homes, was initially launched in 2000 with the hope of providing cheap, reliable, ecologically friendly lighting that can run without relying on mains power, batteries or kerosene fuel. Since teaming up with Sollatek, a UK based company who specialise in solar and electronics manufacture, ITC have made the Glowstar available in the UK and throughout the developing world.
Some of the applications and benefits you’ll get from purchasing a Glowstar include; an emergency light; garden and shed lighting; uses for camping and boating. The durable design has included an ‘emergency function’, so when a power cut strikes, the Glowstar automatically turns on and brightens the potentially dangerous situation.
The light also doubles up as a mobile phone charger and has been fitted with an output socket, sufficient to supply power to a small radio; so it could fit nicely into any kitchen, conservatory or outhouse.
The two modules – Glowstar GS5 and the Glowstar GS7 – are available in three power specifications: 5W (25W GLS), 7W (40W GLS), and 9W (60W GLS), with full-charge times varying. Its operating temperature is -10C to + 45C. So you can be safe in the knowledge that they’ll be no unexpected malfunctioning here in Britain. The units are reasonably lightweight – 2.4Kg for the GS5 unit and 3.3Kg for the GS7 – which makes them practically ideal for camping trips and the like. And their simple design lets you sit them on any shelf without turning feel of the room into a den or bunker.
Glowstar‘s low cost solar lantern has been specifically designed to make solar energy more accessible. ITC’s initiative projects also support good causes by giving away 10 units a month to worthy applicants.
The lamp can be found online, or you should visit the Glowstar website directly www.glowstar.net for further information.
