Solar energy has come a long way – from simple observations of the sun’s power to powering homes, schools and businesses across the UK. At SolarTherm UK we believe understanding the history of solar energy helps us appreciate its incredible potential today.
Early Discoveries: Harnessing the Sun’s Power
Humans have been fascinated by the sun for thousands of years. Ancient civilisations used sunlight for practical purposes, well before electricity was invented.
Ancient Greece and Rome designed buildings with large south facing windows to capture sunlight and heat during winter months. China and India used mirrors to focus sunlight for fire-starting and cooking.
By the 17th Century, scientists like Galileo studied solar energy, observing sunspots and understanding the sun’s impact on Earth. These early innovations laid the groundwork for solar energy as more than just a natural resource, it became a tool.
The Birth of Solar Technology
The 19th Century marked the start of solar technology as we know it. In 1839 French physicist Edmond Becquerel discovered that certain materials could produce electricity when exposed to sunlight. This became known as the photovoltaic effect and would lead to the invention of solar panels.
In 1873, inventors across the United States and Europe developed early solar water heaters, using black painted tanks to absorb the sun’s heat. In 1883 Charles Fritts created the first functional solar cells using selenium, achieving a conversion efficiency of around 1%. Although inefficient by today’s standards, these early solar cells proved that sunlight could be directly converted into electricity.
Solar Energy in the 20th Century
In the early 1900s solar technology advanced slowly, only gaining momentum around the 1950s when silicon solar cells were developed in Bell Labs with an efficiency of around 6%. These cells were initially developed for use in space satellites.
The Oil Crisis in the 70s sparked a growing interest in renewable energy, leading to more research and development of solar panels for homes and businesses. The 80s and 90s saw solar panels appearing on rooftops across Europe and Japan. The efficiency of photovoltaic cells continued increasing, making solar energy a viable alternative to fossil fuels.
Solar Energy Today: Powering the Future
Modern solar technology is more efficient, affordable and accessible than ever before. In the UK, homeowners, schools, and businesses increasingly rely on solar systems to reduce electricity bills, lower carbon emissions and increase energy independence and security.
At SolarTherm UK, we have been part of this solar revolution for over 15 years, installing solar panels and battery storage solutions for homes, schools and businesses across the South East.
Looking Forward
The history of solar energy is a story of curiosity, innovation and determination. As technology continues to advance, solar power will play an even bigger role in creating a sustainable future. Whether it’s through smart solar panels, battery storage or integration with modern energy systems, the sun remains one of our most reliable and renewable resources.
From ancient sun gazers to modern solar innovators, humanity has always recognised the power of the sun. Solar energy is no longer just an idea – it’s a practical, sustainable solution for homes and businesses today.
If you’re looking to start your own solar revolution, contact SolarTherm UK today for a free, no obligation quote and design, tailored to your property, usage and future energy needs. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice.
Your home. Your energy. Your future.
