Solar panels are modern solar energy systems that use solar panels and sunlight to power our homes. The use of the sun’s energy to support livelihoods began many millennia ago, even though solar panel technology is only a few decades old and has only been around for roughly 50 years. Solar panel installation Melbourne-wide has become so common and residents are now looking for solar energy options more than ever. Let’s take a look at the history of solar panels.
Relationship with The Sun
Our relationship with the sun has a lengthy and fascinating history that dates back to the seventh century B.C. Through the ages, societies have utilised the sun’s energy in clever ways to improve their quality of life. From the origin of fire through today’s widespread commercialization of solar energy and residential use. Some of the biggest changes to how we live today have been influenced by solar energy, which we have come to know and enjoy as a renewable source of energy.
Ancient Use of Solar Energy
The energy of the sun was first employed as a heat source in early solar applications. Buildings have been built to maximise light ingress and warmth going back to the Ancient Egyptian civilisations. The Ancient Greeks and Romans began harnessing sunlight to make fire torches around the third century B.C. being especially useful for religious and holy occasions.
Development of First Solar Cell
Fast-forward to the 16th century, when Swiss scientist Horace-Benedict de Saussure created the first solar cell in 1767. Invention and advancement in the development of solar energy continued 72 years later. The Photovoltaic Effect was developed by French scientist Edmond Becquerel when he was just 19 years old. It states that materials can produce voltage and electric current when exposed to light. Another significant development occurred in 1870 with the revelation that light could be converted into electricity without the use of heat. The first functional selenium solar cell was developed by American inventor Charles Fritz at the end of the 17th century. Silicon is now used in solar panel cells today.
Solar Energy Goes Commercial
Solar energy started to become widely available in the 2000s. The market for renewable energy is increasing, and in the coming decade, solar PV technology will progress significantly and be installed more widely. In the EU, renewable energy targets are currently required. More capacity was added to the renewables sector than any other from the 2000s to the 2010s. For owners of homes and businesses, solar panels are becoming more effective, practical, and accessible. More than a million solar PV installations existed as of 2018.
Solar Energy Goes Global
The utilisation of solar-powered equipment, infrastructure, and transportation is still growing today. Worldwide investments in solar parks and farms (both small-scale and large-scale) are still being made. The power of this renewable resource is in a promising position due to its historical developments and present status. Australia’s solar future appears to be very promising as it plans to triple its solar capacity by 2030!
