Based on their usage and power output, off grid solar power products can be classified in 4 groups:

• Lanterns:

Solar lanterns are sold as integrated systems. Each of the systems comes with a panel, a battery, wiring and one or two lamps. Moreover, today lanterns often have an option for cell phone charging. They are small, relatively cheap off-the-shelf products with a maximum power output of around 3W. Due to the low complexity of the product (it is simple plug-and-play) there is no need of professional installation. Also, the need for after-sales service is limited as long as the product is of good quality and the client uses the system under normal conditions. Solar lanterns are affordable to a large share of the population, including those at the bottom of the pyramid. They are the most popular off grid product and also the cheapest.

• Micro-systems:

Micro-systems vary in size from 2.5W to around 15W. Although these small solar systems are still "off the-shelf" products they are a bit more complex than solar lanterns, they have separate parts and involve wiring of several rooms. Mobile phone charging is always an option and more than one room can be illuminated. Additionally, small radios or energy efficient TVs can be powered by these systems. Prices of small solar systems are proportional to their power output.

• Solar Home Systems:

Solar Home Systems (SHS) are systems bigger than 15W. They are sometimes sold as a whole plug-and-play systems, but more commonly as separate components, which need to be installed by a technician. Given the large size of these systems, proper estimation of the power demand, sizing of the system components and a professional installation and maintenance are important. Moreover, consumer education is necessary to ensure proper use of the product. Also, after-sales support may be necessary in case one of the components breaks down. In addition to lighting and cell phones charging, these systems are able to power small electrical appliances such as a TV, larger ones also power fridges and beyond. In case AC appliances are used, an inverter is required.

• Solar Mini-grid:

Solar mini-grid involves solar power generation, supply and distribution at community scale.