There are important moments in the history of solar energy. Scientists, researchers, and governments have all contributed to the creation of solar energy. Here are some significant milestones in solar energy: Paul Macready built the first solar-powered plane. He also designed and built the first solar powered airplane. This trend was continued by the German development of solar-powered cars. In the 1990s, solar energy entered the mainstream with the advent of cheaper solar cells and more efficient panels. Governmental policies have also supported the industry's development, including financial incentives.
Photovoltaic effect
The photovoltaic phenomenon is the result of two dissimilar materials being struck by light. This allows electrons to escape their bound state and cross the junction between two materials. This creates a negative and positive charge at one end of the junction.
Selenium
Selenium is an atomic number 34 in a periodic table. It is conductive to light. Because of this, it can be used to create solar energy. This energy can easily be converted to electricity without heating or moving parts. Willoughby, Smith did several experiments with the element selenium in late 1870s. A candle placed within an inch of the selenium bars could produce an electric current, according to Smith.
Charles Fritts
Solar panels consist of a combination of solar cells mounted in frames that capture light and convert it into energy. Charles Fritts invented the first commercial solar panel in 1884. Solar panels have been an important source in electricity generation since then.
Edmond Becquerel
French physicist Edmond Becquerel discovered a way for certain materials to generate a voltage by exposing them to light in 1839. His discovery inspired a generation of scientists and inventors to come up with practical ways to harness solar energy.
Maria Telkes
Maria Telkes was born in Hungary and studied physical chemistry at the University of Budapest, where she later received her doctorate in physical chemistry. She was also an instructor at 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 investment taxes
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 ITC is determined by the net cost of the solar installation. It can be carried forward to future years. Both homeowners and businesses have access to the ITC. The credit is 30% of the total cost of a solar power system. If you lease the solar panels, the credit is not applicable.