FAQ

What is a solar powered light?

A solar powered light is a lighting device that captures sunlight via a photovoltaic (solar) panel and converts it into electricity to power LEDs or other light sources. The energy is stored in an onboard battery so the light can operate when the sun isn’t shining (e.g. at night or on cloudy days).

Solar powered lights, just like our Luke Light, are ideal for off-grid areas, emergencies, outdoor settings, and places where electrical infrastructure is lacking.

How does a solar powered light work?

During daylight, the solar panel collects sunlight and converts it into electrical current (DC).

That current charges the internal battery (or lightweight solar battery).

When ambient light drops (e.g. dusk) or you switch it on, the stored energy powers LED lights.

Some models have sensors or timers to optimize usage and prevent overdrain.

What is a lightweight solar battery?

A lightweight solar battery is a portable, low-mass energy storage unit designed to work with solar panels or solar powered devices. It offers:

High energy density relative to weight
Portability (easy to carry in backpacks, emergency kits, etc.)
Sufficient capacity to power lights, phones, or small electronics
Durability to handle daily use in variable conditions

These batteries let solar powered lights remain effective while keeping the system (light + battery) easy to transport.

How long can a solar powered Luke Light run on a single charge?

A fully charged Luke Light provides up to 16 hours of night light, making it reliable for studying, working, or moving safely after dark. Actual runtime can vary based on brightness level, battery age, and environmental conditions. For example, dim settings can stretch light time, while frequent use on the brightest mode may shorten it slightly.

The Luke Light is designed for efficiency —one full day of direct sunlight gives you five hours of night light. This makes it an excellent choice for students, travelers, and anyone needing dependable light where electricity isn’t available. With proper care and regular charging, the battery continues performing well for years.

What is the life span of a lightweight solar battery?

A high-quality lightweight solar battery typically lasts between 3 and 5 years, depending on how often it’s charged and discharged. Most lithium-ion or LiFePO₄ batteries used in solar powered lights can handle 500 to 1,500 full charge cycles before their capacity begins to noticeably decline. With proper care, many users see reliable performance from the Chandler Charger well past the 5-year mark.

Can a solar powered battery charge other devices (like phones)?

Yes! Unite to Light’s Chandler Charger has three USB output ports (5V) so you can charge small electronics (phones, wifi hotspots, radios). Always check the device’s voltage and current ratings to ensure compatibility.

Is a solar powered light reliable in cloudy or rainy conditions?

Solar powered lights with good battery storage still work in limited sunlight:

The solar panel will produce less energy under cloud cover, but the battery will still supply stored power.
Over extended low-light periods, you may need to limit usage or recharge more frequently.
Opt for models with efficient solar panels and high-efficiency LEDs to maximize performance in suboptimal conditions.

How do I choose a high-quality solar powered light or a lightweight solar battery?

Start with your goal, then match the product. If you need dependable light for study or night tasks, choose the Luke Light and look for proven performance: a high-efficiency panel, published runtimes (Luke Light delivers up to 16 hours on a full charge and is rated for 10,000 hours), a lithium battery with clearly stated capacity in watt-hours and an honest cycle-life range, plus overcharge and over-discharge protection.

If you need portable phone power, choose the Chandler Charger and verify real battery capacity, supported output ports that fit your devices, sensible solar and USB recharge times, and a durable, water-resistant housing. For both products, confirm the warranty, check impact and water resistance ratings, and favor brands that publish transparent specs and test data.

For a step-by-step checklist and recommended specs, see our guide: https://www.unitetolight.org/blog/how-to-pick-a-solar-charger-power-bank#/

How do I care for and maintain a solar powered light and a lightweight solar battery?

Keep the solar panel clean and place it in direct sunlight whenever you charge. Wipe away dust and residue with a soft, damp cloth, then dry the surface so it captures maximum light. Position the panel to face the sun, avoid shaded or indoor areas, and give it a full day of sunlight when possible. Always use the approved charging ports and cables, monitor the indicator lights, and recharge before the battery fully drains to extend its lifespan.

Protect your solar powered light and lightweight solar battery from extreme temperatures. Avoid leaving them in hot cars, direct heat, or freezing conditions, and keep them dry unless they are rated for submersion. If you plan to store the device, keep it at about 50 to 80 percent charge in a cool, dry place, and top it up every few months. Use lower brightness settings when possible to conserve power, and check regularly for cracked panels, damaged cables, or swelling.

Are solar powered lights environmentally friendly?

Yes. Unite to Light’s solar powered lights and lightweight solar batteries are designed to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and limit battery waste from disposable lights. By replacing kerosene lamps and single-use flashlights, each Luke Light or Chandler Charger helps lower CO₂ emissions and keeps harmful materials out of landfills. Over their lifespan, these products provide a lasting, renewable lighting solution that supports both people and the planet.

To learn how to recycle or responsibly dispose of your solar light or battery, read our blog: https://www.unitetolight.org/blog/e-waste-how-to-circular-lifecycles-for-solar-technology

What is Unite to Light?

Unite to Light is a nonprofit organization that provides solar lights and solar chargers to people living without electricity around the world. Our mission is to bring light and power to those in need, improving access to education, maternal and child health, disaster response, and support for people experiencing homelessness. By providing clean, renewable energy, Unite to Light helps students study at night, midwives deliver babies safely, and families stay connected and prepared during emergencies.

How did Unite to Light get started?

Unite to Light was founded in 2010 after a visiting professor from Ghana challenged researchers at the University of California, Santa Barbara’s Institute for Energy Efficiency to create a small, portable, and durable solar light for students without electricity. Led by Dr. John Bowers and a team of engineers, the group developed an innovative solar-powered lamp and sent the first batch to Ghana, helping students study safely at night. Inspired by this success, they launched Unite to Light, a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to affordable, reliable solar light and power around the world.

Where does Unite to Light operate?

Unite to Light is a global nonprofit organization headquartered in Santa Barbara, California. We have delivered solar lights and chargers to people in more than 80 countries across Africa, Asia, the Americas, and the Pacific. Our work focuses on areas with limited or unreliable electricity, often in partnership with local nonprofits, schools, clinics, and disaster relief organizations. Each year, our reach evolves to meet changing needs—whether responding to natural disasters, supporting maternal health clinics, or helping students study safely at night.

How does Unite to Light fund its programs?

Unite to Light funds its programs through a combination of individual donations, foundation and corporate grants, and sales of its solar lights through a Buy One, Give One model. Every purchase and donation directly supports the distribution of solar lights and chargers to people without electricity around the world. This mix of philanthropy and social enterprise ensures that Unite to Light can sustainably expand access to clean, renewable energy for education, health, and disaster relief.

How do I get involved or donate?

You can support Unite to Light in several ways. Make a donation to help distribute solar lights and chargers to people without electricity around the world. Purchase a Buy One, Give One light, which sends a free light to someone in need for every light you buy. You can also volunteer, partner with us as a corporate sponsor, or fundraise to expand our programs in education, maternal and child health, homelessness, and disaster response. Every contribution helps bring clean, reliable light to communities in need.

What types of programs does Unite to Light run?

Unite to Light runs programs in education, maternal and child health, homelessness, and disaster response. We provide solar lights and chargers to students who need light to study, midwives delivering babies safely, families experiencing power outages, and communities affected by natural disasters. By focusing on these areas, Unite to Light brings practical, sustainable solutions that improve safety, learning, and quality of life for people without reliable electricity.

Who benefits from Unite to Light’s work?

Our programs benefit people living without electricity worldwide, including students, teachers, healthcare workers, midwives, families in disaster-affected areas, and people experiencing homelessness. By providing solar lights and chargers, Unite to Light helps communities access education, healthcare, and safety at night, empowering individuals to thrive even in challenging conditions.

How can I donate to Unite to Light?

You can donate directly through our website to support the distribution of solar lights and chargers globally. Donations of any size help provide clean, reliable light to people without electricity. You can also participate in our Buy One, Give One program, where every light you purchase sends a free light to someone in need. Donations are tax-deductible and have a direct, measurable impact.

Can I buy a solar light for myself and help others?

Yes! Through Unite to Light’s Buy One, Give One program, every light you purchase provides a free solar light to someone without electricity. This is an easy way to get a high-quality solar lamp for personal use while supporting education, healthcare, and disaster relief around the world. Your purchase helps expand access to safe, sustainable energy.

How can organizations partner with Unite to Light?

Unite to Light partners with schools, nonprofits, corporations, and disaster relief organizations to expand the reach of our solar lights and chargers. Partners can support programs through donations, sponsorships, or collaborative projects. By partnering with Unite to Light, organizations help deliver clean, reliable energy to communities in need, improve educational and health outcomes, and respond effectively to emergencies.

Can I donate directly without purchasing a light?

Yes! Go to unitetolight.org/donate

When you check out, you can even pick the program area you want to support: education, disaster response, maternal and child health, homelessness or greatest need.

Are donations tax-deductible?

Yes! Unite to Light is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. Your contribution directly supports the distribution of solar lights and chargers to people without electricity, helping improve education, healthcare, and disaster response worldwide.

How does Unite to Light decide who gets solar lights?

Unite to Light distributes donated solar lights and chargers to people living without electricity and to communities affected by disasters that disrupt power. We work exclusively with local partners who have an on-the-ground presence to ensure the lights reach those who need them most. Donors can also choose the program area they wish to support, such as education, maternal health, or disaster response. Additionally, any nonprofit organization can apply to partner with Unite to Light to receive donations for their community.

How can I partner with Unite to Light?

Nonprofit organizations can partner with Unite to Light through our Gift of Light Partner Program, which provides solar lights and chargers to support communities without electricity. The program typically accepts applications each year in January and February. To stay informed and receive updates about the application process, email Admin@unite-to-light.org to be added to our mailing list. Partnering with Unite to Light ensures your organization can bring reliable, clean light to students, healthcare workers, and families in need.

How can I volunteer or get involved?

You can get involved by volunteering, fundraising, or hosting events to support Unite to Light. Volunteers help with outreach, awareness campaigns, or local fundraising initiatives. Hosting a fundraiser or campaign—like a school drive or community event—helps provide solar lights and chargers to people without electricity worldwide. Every action, big or small, contributes to brighter, safer communities.

Where can I buy Unite to Light products for my own use?

On our website! https://www.unitetolight.org/buy-one–give-one

How long do Unite to Light’s solar lights last and how durable are they?

Unite to Light’s solar lights and chargers are designed to be durable, long-lasting, and reliable in challenging conditions. Our Luke Lights are rated for 10,000 hours of light over their lifetime and can withstand daily use, outdoor exposure, and rough handling. Their high-quality solar panels ensure efficient charging, while the robust casing protects against drops and moisture. These features make our lights ideal for students, healthcare workers, disaster-affected communities, and families living without electricity.

How long does it take to charge a Unite to Light product?

Unite to Light solar products are designed for efficient, reliable solar charging. The Luke Light provides about 5 hours of night light for each full day in the sun, and its battery can hold up to 16 hours of light. The Unite to Light Solar Charger takes 4–5 days to fully charge, providing approximately three-quarters of a phone charge per day of sunlight. These solar products are built to support students, healthcare workers, and families living without reliable electricity.

How does Unite to Light respond to disasters?

Unite to Light responds to natural disasters and humanitarian crises by sending solar lights and chargers to affected communities. These lights provide immediate relief, helping families stay safe, power emergency clinics, and maintain communication when traditional electricity is unavailable. We partner with local and international organizations to ensure rapid and effective delivery where it’s needed most.

How many people has Unite to Light helped?

Since its founding in 2010, Unite to Light has distributed over 275,000 solar lights and chargers to people living without electricity in more than 80 countries. Our products support students studying at night, midwives providing maternal and child health care, families affected by disasters, and individuals experiencing homelessness. Each light or charger brings clean, reliable solar energy to communities in need, improving education, health, safety, and quality of life around the world.

How can my company get involved?

Companies can support Unite to Light in several impactful ways:

Partner to fund a project: Directly support solar light and charger distributions to communities in need. Businesses can choose the program area—education, maternal health, homelessness, or disaster response—that aligns with their values.
Buy One, Give One (BOGO): Every light purchased sends a free solar light to someone living without electricity.
Corporate gifts: Purchase Unite to Light products for clients, employees, or teams. With a minimum purchase, companies can select the project their donation supports, and we’ll create custom inserts highlighting their commitment to bringing clean, reliable light to communities worldwide.
Volunteer or organize campaigns: Engage employees in volunteering, fundraising, or awareness events to expand your company’s impact.
Environmental partnership: Unite to Light is an Environmental Partner with 1% for the Planet, allowing corporate partners to support both humanitarian and environmental impact through our programs.

By participating, companies help provide clean, reliable solar energy to people living without electricity in the U.S. and around the world, while also demonstrating corporate responsibility and sustainability leadership.

Does Unite to Light operate in the United States?

Yes! Unite to Light is a global nonprofit that also operates in the United States, focusing on communities with limited or unreliable electricity. In the U.S., we provide solar lights and chargers to support people experiencing homelessness and to assist communities affected by natural disasters such as hurricanes, wildfires, and floods. Our programs ensure that families, students, and healthcare workers have access to clean, reliable solar energy when they need it most, complementing our international efforts to bring light and power to people worldwide.

How does Unite to Light measure its impact?

Unite to Light measures impact by collecting both quantitative and qualitative data whenever possible. This includes tracking student test scores to see educational outcomes and conducting surveys with distribution partners and recipients to understand how the lights and chargers are used. By gathering feedback from both those giving out the lights and those using them, Unite to Light ensures its programs in education, maternal health, disaster response, and homelessness are effective and reach the people who need them most.

Can I gift a light in someone’s name?

Yes! Unite to Light’s donation page allows you to make a gift in honor or in memory of someone. You can also send a personalized note via email to the individual or their family through our platform. This is a meaningful way to celebrate a special person while providing clean, reliable solar lights and chargers to people living without electricity around the world.