History of Solar Power
The birth of solar energy technology can be traced back two centuries ago starting with French physicist Alexandre Edmon Becquerel, who discovered what is called the photovoltaic effect in 1839. He observed that you could generate an electric current when exposing platinum to electrodes to light.
In 1954, AT&T Bell Laboratory created the first solar battery made from strips of silicon that could capture electrons from sunlight. Bell Laboratory also created the first modern solar cell made with a silicon semiconductor that turned light into electricity.
Finally, in 1978, the U.S. Congress passed the Public Utility Regulatory Policy Act or PURPA. PUPRA paved the way for independent power producers to connect to local utility distribution systems. Late that same year, the Energy Tax Act (ETA) was passed to encourage homeowners to invest in solar technology as a way to save energy.
Check out our blog articles below with useful information for you to decide if solar is right for you. If we can help, please let us know!
HOT SOLAR SOLUTIONS BLOG
Solar Battery Backup Versus a Gas Generator
Do you or someone you love use a CPAP machine or need oxygen? Electric wheelchairs also require power. Is your freezer stocked from your hard work of fishing and hunting? Now might be the perfect time to consider solar battery backup to protect your family against an...
How Much Solar Power Can My Roof Generate?
How Much Solar Power Can My Roof Generate? Power output or wattage is a highly relevant factor to consider when you compare solar panel options. Some examples of what you may be told by one of our installers at Hot Solar Solutions are “it’s a 255 Watt panel” or “a...
Solar Power for Businesses
Solar Power For Businesses With rising utility rates and a considerable decrease in the cost of buying and installing solar panels, solar power has become a sustainable and cost-effective energy alternative for business owners. By combining a modest energy storage...
Is Solar Power Really Worth the Investment?
Is Solar Power Worth It? The question really is, does going solar make economic sense. Will solar panels really save you money? Tax Credit Savings One of the biggest advantages of installing residential solar panels is a federal tax credit on the total cost of a...
4 Common Myths About Solar Energy
Despite the widespread environmental and economic benefits of solar energy, there are myths circulating that can cause confusion and misperceptions among consumers. Many of these myths or rumors center around affordability, aesthetics, and efficiency when it comes to...
Will Solar Panels Work on Cloudy Days?
If you live in a cold weather climate or you’re experiencing a long winter with persistent cloud cover, you probably wonder if it is smart to invest in solar panels. Afterall, does solar energy really work when it’s cloudy? You want to do your part to save the planet,...