Solar lights are a popular way to light up outdoor spaces at home and work without increasing your power bill. They capture the sun’s energy during the day, store it in a battery and then generate light at night. They’re also useful in places and circumstances where it’s impossible to connect to a central electrical grid, such as illuminating a pathway, marking an entrance to a fence or garden or adding a warm glow to a porch or patio.

The key to a solar light’s function is in its photovoltaic cells, which convert sunlight into electricity that charges a battery. A small rechargeable lithium-ion, nickel-cadmium or lead-acid battery stores that energy until darkness falls and then releases it to illuminate your space. There are many styles and options available, from simple garden lights to motion-sensing security lights.

Some solar lights have a built-in light sensor that turns on automatically when it gets dark, and off again at dawn. Others are controlled manually by a switch or remote. Many are designed to spotlight attractive landscape features such as gardens, trees and ponds. Other solar lights are positioned along walkways, driveways and steps for safety and to improve visibility in areas that might otherwise be hidden by shadows or darkness. They’re also commonly used to accentuate decorative elements such as fountains, sculptures or ornamental flowers and shrubbery.

Since there’s no electrical wiring involved, a solar lighting system can be installed in just minutes. That’s especially helpful if you aren’t comfortable handling electrical wiring or want to avoid the expense of hiring an electrician. Additionally, there’s no impact on your electric bill because solar lights are powered by free and renewable solar energy.

There are also flameless, solar-powered candles and torches that offer an alternative to traditional candles for use indoors or out. They look like the real thing and provide a flickering effect but don’t pose the same dangers of falling over, burning down a house or spilling hot wax.

Regardless of the style you choose, it’s important to focus on quality over just aesthetics. The best solar lighting is made by leading companies and uses durable materials that can withstand the elements. Look for solar lights with a weatherproof seal that keeps out water and debris. And choose a design that provides enough illumination for the purpose you’re using it, such as a floodlight that keeps criminals at bay or a lantern-style fixture that creates a welcoming ambiance.