The History of Solar Energy

While there are many sources of energy on planet Earth, there are some that are sustainable and renewable. solar energy is one of these. There is a long history of humans using energy from the sun. With many advances in technology, this energy will soon be at the forefront of the world. Learning about the history of using energy from the sun is critical for those who need to understand its promising outlook.

Those who look back in history can better understand how this energy has transformed over the years. Like most things in history, using energy from the sun started with humble beginnings. People knew the sun held energy, but they did not know how or in what ways they could harness this energy.

Though many people believe modern solar panels were the first method of harnessing energy from the sun, the history goes much further back in time. According to history, scientists all over the world have been working with solar cells as far back as two-hundred years.

In 1839, Alexandre Becquerel was the first to notice the photovoltaic effect. This effect occurs when materials produce an electric current after being exposed to the sun’s energy. Although this discovery was the start of understanding the energy, it would not be until 1888 before Aleksandr Stoletov built the first cell.

Harnessing the energy of the sun has been an ongoing effort among scientists, but it was Albert Einstein that brought the subject to the forefront when he published an article on the photoelectric effect in 1904.

In 1954, Bell Laboratories produced the first photovoltaic cell, but, unfortunately, it was overly expensive to produce and did not offer enough power. Although this energy cell was expensive, the space program launched the Vanguard 1 using panels that absorbed energy from the sun as its main power backup in 1958.

This launch helped scientists to better understand how they could use energy from the sun. A second launch, this time a manned one, used these panels in 1967. Unfortunately, for many years, this technology was primarily used in space.

In 1991, President George H. W. Bush created the National Renewable Energy Laboratory with a focus on developing better methods to utilize energy from the sun. In 1999, photovoltaic production finally reached the 1000-megawatt level.

With advances in technology and much research, scientists have been successful in learning how to use solar energy like never before. Today, many homes in California and all over the world have panels installed.

Yes, much research needs to follow, but the world is definitely making strides in being able to better use this renewable energy source and back off on its usage of non-sustainable power.

It will be interesting to see what the next twenty years have in store for this technology. One day, it is hoped the human race will be able to rely on energy from the sun for all their power needs.

Some home and business owners have shied away from adopting this energy source because they are concerned about reliability and cost. It is important to note, the cost for solar has greatly diminished over the last ten years.

About a decade ago, homeowners could expect to pay around $50,000 for a 6-kilowatt residential panel. Today, costs range from $16,000s to the low $21,000s. With further technology coming to the forefront and less expensive manufacturing options, the costs of these energy cell panels will continue to drop. With prices at their lowest in thirty years, now is an opportune time for homeowners to invest in powering their homes with energy from the sun.

These sun energy panels have come a long way since first being introduced to the world. These panels are technically called photo-voltaic modules because they absorb energy from the sun and can then create electric currents.

Most modules are rigid in design, but newer panels are now flexible and can be installed on multiple surfaces. No matter the installation point, these panels must be protected against damage and moisture, to protect their integrity.

In a panel, the cells are connected in specific order to gain amperage, and the installers attach the panels to a PV junction box so it can outsource the energy into the home.

• This energy source does not produce greenhouse gasses, making it much better for the environment.

• Unlike some energy sources, energy from the sun is renewable and lasting.

• Homeowners who choose to use the sun’s energy over other forms will find they save money.



• This form of energy can be used to power a home or used on an industrial level to power a large manufacturing plant. With greater versatility options, the sun is going to become the choice source of energy.

With all the above benefits, it is no wonder so many homeowners are making the switch to clean solar energy to power their homes. Seeking a professional installation ensures homes have all the energy they need.

Photo-voltaic modules have come a long way over the last two hundred years. With countries all over the world pushing for greener energy, it appears sun energy will soon be used on a larger scale.

Homeowners who want to reduce their carbon footprint and their energy costs should look to the sun. Installing photo-voltaic modules should be done by a seasoned professional. Those who are interested should contact Sunpower by Ambrose today.

With more home and business owners embracing solar energy, greenhouse emissions should slowly begin declining, offering a better environment for the future. Call now to learn more.

Sunpower By Ambrose is a company that offers the highest quality solar panels in the industry. They strive for the best level of customer service and work towards helping homeowners save money on their electric bills in California. They offer free quotes to allow homeowners to learn more about this exciting energy source and all its possibilities.