Origin of solar power generation technology

What is the history of solar energy?

From the earliest days of solar-powered satellites to modern rooftop arrays and utility-scale solar farms, this is the complete history of solar energy—and a look at its exciting potential in the years to come. The story of solar energy begins in 1839 with the work of French physicist Edmond Becquerel.

When did solar technology start?

The early Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians were pioneers in using passive solar design to heat their homes and bathhouses. By orienting buildings towards the sun, they maximised natural light and warmth, setting the foundation for future advancements in solar technology. The formal development of solar technology began in the 19th century.

How did solar technology evolve in the 20th century?

As the 20th century progressed, solar technology experienced significant advancements. During the 1950s, Bell Labs pioneered the first practical silicon photovoltaic cell, boasting an energy conversion rate of around 6%, a substantial improvement over previous models.

When did photovoltaic technology start?

Beyond these primitive uses of solar energy, the first major milestone in photovoltaic history came in 1839, when the French physicist Alexandre-Edmond Becquerel discovered the photoelectric effect. While experimenting with an electrolytic cell, the researcher noticed that current flowed up one of the electrodes when exposed to sunlight.

When did solar panels come out?

The first solar panel in history came into being at the end of the 19th century, but the use of the sun as an energy source dates back to the very origins of mankind. The history of photovoltaic technology has been shaped by various scientific advances that came one after another to obtain electricity from the sun.

How was solar energy used in the 1960s?

This breakthrough ignited the modern era of solar energy, leading to its widespread application. The subsequent decades saw solar technology being used in various sectors. During the 1960s, solar cells powered space exploration missions, notably the Vanguard 1 satellite.