Solar panels are a crucial part of the world’s shift towards renewable energy sources. These panels generate electricity from the sun’s rays, which can be used to power homes, businesses, and even cars. However, many people may not know who invented the solar panels that we use today. In this article, we will explore the history of solar panels and the people behind their creation.
The history of solar panels can be traced back to the mid-19th century when French physicist Alexandre-Edmond Becquerel discovered the photovoltaic effect. This effect occurs when certain materials generate an electric current when exposed to light. However, it wasn’t until the 1950s that the first practical solar cell was invented by American engineer Russell Ohl. Ohl’s solar cell was made from silicon and was used in early satellites.
In the United Kingdom, the history of solar panels can be traced back to the 1970s when the country faced an energy crisis. During this time, the government began to invest in renewable energy sources, including solar panels. In 1973, British engineer Elliot Berman designed a solar cell that was more efficient than previous models. Berman’s design used a thin layer of silicon, which allowed more light to be absorbed and converted into electricity.
In the years that followed, companies in the UK began to develop solar panels for commercial use. One of the most notable companies was Solar Power Limited, which was founded in 1978. This company was created with the goal of developing photovoltaic technology for use in homes and businesses.
Another important figure in the development of solar panels in the UK was Professor Martin Green. Green is an Australian scientist who moved to the UK in the 1980s to work at the University of New South Wales. During his time in the UK, Green worked to improve the efficiency of solar cells. He developed a method for creating multi-layered solar cells, which increased their efficiency and reduced their cost.
Today, solar panels are used all over the world and are an important part of the renewable energy sector. In the UK, there are now thousands of homes and businesses that have solar panels installed. The government has also set targets for renewable energy use, with the goal of generating 50% of the country’s electricity from renewable sources by 2030.
In conclusion, the history of solar panels is a long and complex one. While the photovoltaic effect was discovered in the 19th century, it wasn’t until the 1950s that practical solar cells were developed. In the UK, the development of solar panels can be traced back to the 1970s when the country faced an energy crisis. Since then, companies and individuals in the UK have played an important role in improving the efficiency of solar panels and making them more accessible. Today, solar panels are a crucial part of the world’s transition towards renewable energy sources.
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