The History of Solar Energy
Solar energy has been used by humans for thousands of years. The earliest record of using solar energy dates back to 7th century B.C. when people used magnifying glasses to concentrate the sun’s rays to start fires. The ancient Greeks also made use of the sun’s energy by designing their homes to face the sun for warmth during winter.
In the 19th century, the first solar-powered engine was developed by Auguste Mouchout in France. This invention led to the development of the first solar-powered water pump in 1882. By the early 20th century, solar energy was being used to power homes in remote areas where electricity was not available.
The use of solar energy drastically increased during the 1970s oil crisis. The United States government invested heavily in solar energy research, leading to the development of the first commercial solar cell. This development paved the way for the widespread use of solar panels in homes and businesses.
Today, solar energy is becoming an increasingly popular source of renewable energy. The cost of solar panels has decreased significantly, making it more affordable for homeowners to install them on their roofs. Governments around the world are also providing incentives for people to switch to solar energy, such as tax credits and rebates.
Benefits of Solar Energy
There are many benefits to using solar energy. One of the biggest advantages is that it is a renewable source of energy. Unlike fossil fuels, which will eventually run out, the sun will continue to shine for billions of years. Solar energy is also clean and does not produce any harmful emissions, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
Another advantage of solar energy is that it can help reduce electricity bills. By installing solar panels on your roof, you can generate your own electricity, reducing the amount of electricity you need to buy from your utility company. In some cases, homeowners can even sell excess electricity back to their utility company.
Solar energy is also reliable. The sun will continue to shine even during power outages, ensuring that you will still have access to electricity. This can be especially important for people living in remote areas where electricity is not readily available.
The Future of Solar Energy
The future of solar energy looks bright. As technology continues to improve, the efficiency of solar panels will increase, making them even more affordable and accessible to homeowners. Governments around the world are also investing in solar energy research, leading to new breakthroughs and innovations.
One of the biggest advancements in solar technology is the development of solar shingles. These shingles are designed to look like traditional roofing shingles but are actually solar panels. This development will make it easier for homeowners to install solar panels on their roofs without having to worry about the aesthetics of their home.
Another development in solar technology is the creation of solar-powered cars. These cars are powered by electricity generated by solar panels on the car roof. This innovation will provide an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional gas-powered cars.
You can read more on why now is the right time to switch to solar by visiting one of our previous blog posts here.
If you have any questions about solar power, our team of experts are always happy to help. So give us a call on 1300 911 736 or get in touch here.
