We love it when someone takes two easy to understand technologies and produces a fun and practical item that anyone can buy for less than $20. That someone is IKEA and their new line of Solar-Operated Lighting is called SOLIG. It's presence in the market place and its ease of use may be just what many people need to get their arms around a green energy future.

Look, no power cords!
IKEA's colorful lights run on solar cells that transform sunlight into nine hours of energy. No electricity from your power company and no ugly cords required. Plus, the lights are LEDs, which mean they consume 70 percent less energy than your average light bulb and they will last a long time too. Perfect for backyard BBQs, pool areas or for use spaces that get a lot of sunlight during the day like sun rooms..

Is this a big so what?
Will IKEA's SOLIG make a difference in global warning? Probably not. But the idea of getting these simple little lights into the hands of millions of people can constitute a major paradigm shift and pave the way for consumer acceptance. and demand for products like these.

Energy companies and people who are talking about the Smart Grid may laugh these little devices off. We think that would be a mistake comparable to people not thinking that consumers would have their own personal computers or trade in their horses and buggies for automobiles.

Today most people do understand the role that solar energy and energy efficiency will play in their lives. They are hungry for products and are tired of standing by and waiting for the big technological solution, be it a smart grid or other energy flavor of the day.

An Aha Moment!
Right now the idea that IKEA's SOLIG will prevent global warming might be a stretch. However, it's presence in the market place and its ease of use may be just what many people need to get their arms around solar energy and LEDs. On a small scale it is not rocket science.

Just think of some everyday gadjets that could benefit from the marriage between solar cells and LEDs.

-Your cell phone, laptop computer just basking in the sun recharging.

-The roof on your car in the parking lot soaking up that solar energh and at night used to power your  headlights and tail lights are just a few examples of ways that these two technologies can free our from the power and the power company.

On a larger scale---a solar roof that powers LEDS in your home. No changing LED lights for 10 year.

IKEA's SOLIG is relatively new so if you purchased some let us know how they work and if you are pleased with them by commenting below.

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