While it is technically possible to charge solar panels with artificial lighting, the process is highly inefficient and impractical for most applications.
How to charge solar lights?
The best way to charge solar lights is with sunlight. However, even if you don't have access to direct sunlight, you can still charge your solar lights in other ways. In overcast or winter weather, you can easily charge solar lights with indirect sunlight. What's more, you can even charge your solar lights with no sunlight at all!
Similar to incandescent and LED lights, fluorescent lighting can also charge solar lights. Position the solar panel under a fluorescent light source. The broad spectrum of light emitted by fluorescent bulbs is suitable for the photovoltaic cells in the solar panel.
Should you use a power bank to charge solar lights?
Power banks can provide a direct and steady source of electricity, making them a reliable option for charging solar lights, especially in outdoor or remote areas. For solar lights that are used indoors or in areas with limited light, position them near windows or in well-lit rooms during the day.
For example, if the open circuit voltage of your solar panel is 20V and the battery to be charged is rated at 12V, and if you connect the two directly would cause the panel voltage to drop to the battery voltage, which would make things too inefficient.
How do you charge a solar panel battery?
In such situations the battery might need an external charging from mains using a 24V, power supply applied across the solar panel supply lines, across the cathode of D1 and ground. The current from this supply could be specified at around 20% of battery AH, and the battery may be charged until both the LEDs stop glowing.
Charging Solar Lights With A Usb Cable. Many modern solar lights come equipped with a handy USB port or even an adapter for direct charging. If yours does, consider yourself lucky! Just plug it in like you would your phone, and voila – instant charge!