Solar energy history includes important moments in solar energy technology. All three parties have made significant contributions to the development and use of solar power: scientists, inventors, governments. Here are some important solar energy milestones: The first solar-powered airplane was built by Paul Macready, who also designed the first solar-powered airplane. This trend was continued by the German development of solar-powered cars. With the introduction of more efficient and cheaper solar cells in the 1990s, solar energy became mainstream. The industry has been supported by various government policies, including financial incentives.
Photovoltaic effect
Photovoltaic effects are a phenomenon that happens when two different materials are placed close together and struck by light. This event frees electrons from their bound state so that they can cross the junction between the two materials. This gives rise to a voltage and a negative charge on one side of the junction.
Selenium
Selenium, which is the atomic number34 in the periodic tables, is a metallic that is conductive when light is present. Because it is conductive, you can create solar power. This energy can be converted into electrical current without any heat or moving parts. Willoughby Smith, an 1870s chemist, conducted many experiments with selenium. He discovered that a candle placed one inch from the bars of selenium could produce an electricity current.
Charles Fritts
Solar panels are composed from solar cells mounted on a frame. The frames capture sunlight and convert it into electricity. The first commercial solar panel was invented by Charles Fritts in 1884. Solar panels have been an important source in electricity generation since then.
Edmond Becquerel
French physicist Edmond Becquerel discovered, in 1839, that certain materials produce a voltage when they are exposed to light. His discovery inspired generations of scientists and inventors to find practical ways to harness the sun's energy.
Maria Telkes
Maria Telkes was raised in Hungary. She studied physicalchemistry at the University of Budapest where she received her doctorate. She also taught at the University of Budapest. She immigrated to the United States after graduating. There, she worked as a biophysicist for the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. Her research led to the invention of a photoelectric system that could record brain waves.
Credit for investments
You can get the Investment Tax Credit (ITC for solar energy) as a tax credit to cover the cost of installing solar energy systems in your home. The net cost of the solar system is the basis for the ITC. It can also be carried forward into the future. Homeowners and businesses can both apply for the ITC. The credit can be used to offset 30% of the cost of installing a solar energy system. The credit is not available if you are leasing the solar panels.