History of Solar Panels

History of Solar Panels

Solar panels have been around much longer than most assume. Almost 200 years ago, in 1839, French physicist Edmond Becquerel discovered the photovoltaic effect, which is light or radiant energy producing voltage or electronic current. This discovery inspired many inventors across the globe to file patents for solar-powered devices over the next few decades. 

In 1883, New York inventor Charles Fritts created the first solar cell, which pioneered solar panel innovation in America. Fritts solar cell was gold coated in selenium and had a conversion rate of 2%, compared to today’s panels with a rate of 15%. In 1913, Washington D.C native William Coblentz received a patent for thermal generators, which converted heat to electricity. This patent kickstarted the idea of using solar energy for everyday electricity use. 

In the 1950s, Bell Laboratories created the first silicone-coated solar cell with a conversion rate of 6%. Silicone is still used today in solar panels. However, at the time, silicone was an expensive material to create a full solar panel making it an unlikely addition to the average home/business. However, in 1973 the University of Delaware created the first solar house known as Solar One, which made an impossible idea become a reality. Although Solar One did not use panels, it was still powered by the sun which convinced the public and the government that solar energy is a viable option. 

In the 1970s, the U.S was experiencing an energy crisis which led Congress to pass the Solar Energy Research, Development, and Demonstration Act of 1974. This act became the first of many measures by the government to be involved in renewable energy. Since then, solar panels have become increasingly more cost-effective and is seen in more home/business every year. The U.S government continues to pass bills, grants, and tax incentives to help more citizens go solar. 

Chu, E., & Tarazano, D. L. (n.d.). A Brief History of Solar Panels. Smithsonian Magazine. Retrieved November 21, 2022, from https://www.smithsonianmag.com/sponsored/brief-history-solar-panels-180972006/