Tips and Tricks for Getting the Best from Solar Lighting in Australia

Solar lights are a simple way to brighten outdoor spaces without running wires - but how well they work depends a lot on where you live and how you place them. In Australia, the sun’s angle and intensity shift more than you might expect, and it can make a noticeable difference to how long your lights stay on at night.

Here’s what matters most - and how to get the best results in your backyard, garden path or driveway.

1. Location Matters More Than You Think
Your latitude affects how high the sun gets in the sky each day. Up north in Darwin or Townsville, the sun is almost overhead all year round, which means solar panels charge well from most angles. Down south in places like Hobart or Melbourne, the sun sits lower, especially in winter. That means solar lights need a clear view of the sky - preferably north-facing - or they might struggle to charge fully. The difference? Up to 40% less run-time in winter just from being further south.

2. Summer Is Solar Season
Long days and high sun angles make summer the best time for solar lighting. Even with casual placement, you’ll usually get a strong, lasting charge. In winter, things change fast. Shorter days and a lower sun angle mean slower charging and fewer hours of light at night. In Perth, a light that runs 8 hours in January might only manage 5 in July. It’s not faulty - just seasonal. Expect a 20–40% drop in winter unless you optimise placement.

3. Direction and Shade Are Deal-Breakers
Sunlight needs to hit the panel - directly and without interruption. North-facing spots are ideal anywhere in Australia. East and west can still work, especially in the north. South-facing walls or heavy shade from fences, trees or eaves? That’s when performance drops fast. Even a little shade during the day can cut charging by half, especially in winter when the sun sits lower and shadows stretch longer.

Quick Fixes and Smart Installs

• In northern areas: Most sunny spots will do just fine.

• Down south: Go for clear, north-facing positions. Avoid shade at all costs.

• Winter checks: Around midday, look for any long shadows. If you see one, reposition.

• Give panels a wipe every so often - dust and grime cut efficiency.

Final Tip:
If you’re not getting the hours you expect from your solar lights, don’t assume they’re faulty. A small shift in angle, a bit of shade, or even a few degrees of latitude can cut performance by 30–50%. A quick reposition often makes all the difference.