History of Solar Energy

The history of solar energy is as old as humankind. In the last two centuries, we started using Sun's energy directly to make electricity. In 1839, Alexander Edmond Becquerel (pictured on the right) discovered that certain materials produced small amounts of electric current when exposed to light.

Solar-powered photovoltaic (PV) panels convert the sun's rays into electricity by exciting electrons in silicon cells using the photons of light from the sun. This electricity can then be used to supply renewable energy to your home or business.

Solar panel history. In 1839 Alexander Edmond Becquerel discovered the photovoltaic effect which explains how electricity can be generated from sunlight. He claimed that “shining light on an electrode submerged in a conductive solution would create an electric current.”

Storing Photovoltaic Energy. Solar panels cannot produce energy at night or during cloudy periods. But rechargeable batteries can store electricity: The photovoltaic panels charge the battery during the day, and this power can be drawn upon in the evening.

The most common form of solar energy used today is photovoltaic solar panels, which absorb the sun's light to create electricity. They can also be used for small appliances and machines which only need small amounts of electricity for use.