Header: Sonnenglas
SOMO by Sonnenglas harnesses the power of the sun to provide personal light that can last up to 100 hours. Originally conceived as a solution to the energy insufficiency on the African continent, the SOMO by Sonnenglas has developed into a powerful, modular system that can provide a safe, clean, renewable energy source at any location. SOMO won the 2026 AIDA Africa International Design Award for the best Product Design/ Eco Design.
Up to 100 hours of light with just one charge
SOMO light is powered by a Li-ion battery with colour-coded charge indication and high-efficiency solar cells. It is charged under the sun throughout the day to provide illumination in the evenings and nights. The light activates automatically to save energy. Brightness can vary from 5 to 100 lumens, and a control button on its underside enables easy dimming. The SOMO features 6 LEDs providing 300 K illumination, which can last up to 100 hours without flickering when fully charged. The light doubles sun exposure, so users can get up to 2 hours of light from 1 hour of sun charging. The charging through the USB-C port works even faster. Ten minutes of charging provides 10 hours of light, and SOMO can be fully charged in just two and a half hours.
Sonnenglas modular ecosystem
SOMO can be used independently as a pocket light but can also be integrated into other products from the Sonnenglas modular solar ecosystem, such as Sun Jars or Light Carafes. The light works through the metal contact with Sun Jars, while Light Carafes are created by placing a SOMO light into a drinking carafe with a cork lid, thus turning it into a table lamp. The multi-use quality expands application across numerous contexts.
Sustainable approach
The modular system that spans across several products improves longevity and reduces electronic waste. The company uses recycled materials in all phases of the manufacturing process, including product packaging. For instance, Sun Jars and Light Carafes are made from 100% recycled glass. Even the factory is powered mostly by solar energy, as 105 photovoltaic panels generate 40 kW of power. The low environmental impact of the SOMO is acknowledged with the Blue Angel eco-label awarded by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment (BMUV). In time, SOMO could completely replace dangerous, polluting lighting like kerosene lamps or candles.
Made in Africa
SOMO by Sonnenglas reduces electronic waste, thus combining technical innovation with environmental concerns. Like all other Sonnenglas products, SOMO is handmade in Africa, employing both traditional craftsmanship and innovative technology. Made by local artisans and young talents in a Fair Trade-certified factory in Johannesburg, the light does more than just offer light; it empowers communities. Located in Lorentzville, a district with high unemployment rates, the company offers equitable jobs to people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
SOMO by Sonnenglas provides communities in Africa with what they need most: a safe, renewable source of electricity. But more than just a product, the company also shines a light on a promising feature of Africa by creating job opportunities that empower communities while leading the continent into an environmentally-conscious, sustainable future.
