Solar energy has come a long way since its beginnings. In fact, between 2008 and 2022, U.S. net solar generation increased by more than 168 times. Let’s take a closer look at the timeline of solar innovation and highlight some of the most notable developments in solar history.
1883
Charles Fritts created the first solar cell from selenium and gold. His design had 1% efficiency, meaning it converted about 1% of the energy it absorbs into electricity. It was used on his New York City rooftop in 1884. He hoped solar would soon be able to compete with Thomas Edison’s recently opened coal power station, but it would be 130 years before the cost of solar can compete with coal’s.
1905
Einstein published his paper on the photoelectric effect, the phenomenon of electrons emitting from a material when hit with electromagnetic radiation such as sunlight. His paper and the research that led up to it revealed important discoveries about the role of light frequency and intensity in the generation of electricity and examined light’s behavior as an electromagnetic wave.
1954
The silicon photovoltaic (PV) cell, for the first time, could convert enough solar energy into electricity to run everyday electric items. It was an improvement upon Fritts’ design and had 4% efficiency. This generated a wave of development and research as solar started being seen as a viable energy source.
1979
The first solar array was installed on the White House roof during President Carter’s presidency. The panels were removed by 1986, but returned in 2003 under President Bush, on the roof of the central maintenance building. In 2013 under President Obama, panels returned on the roof of the house itself.
2021
PV solar arrays provided about 3.6% of the world's electricity by the end of this year. Renewables, including solar, wind and hydropower accounted for 34% of Alliant Energy’s energy generation during this year.
2022
Last year, several advancements in solar energy occurred. Dutch car company Lightyear developed the first production-ready solar-powered car.
Meanwhile, Princeton University researchers developed perovskite solar cells that can be produced at room temperature and with less energy than silicon-based cells.
Stanford University researcher Nina Vaidya also developed a pyramid-shaped device that captures light at all angles with one-third the surface current solar cells require to capture the same amount.
Last year's innovations have continued to build off the development of the past decade. The global PV industry has grown at a compound rate of over 35% over the last 10 years, according to the Solar Energy Industry Data. Research on how to alter and improve photovoltaics continues at a rapid pace.
Check out these articles for details on other exciting advancements in solar, like improving soil health on sites, groundwater quality and production in the winter.