Mouchot Solar Generator 1878 [10]
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History of Man Using Solar EnergyPrior to fossil fuels becoming the dominant source of energy, the sun was the sole source of energy for man. Several milestones have been met over the course of thousands of years surrounding three basic resources, fuel, heat, and food, In the most recent milestone however, electricity can be added to those three resources. From the creation of the windowpane to allow light and heat to pass through a home, to the most advanced solar technology, cultivating the powerful energy of the sun has existed since the beginning of man.
The sun has remained constant throughout, but man's abilities have developed drastically. Basic principles such as architecture, urban planning, and the process to collect, convert, or store the sun's heat have been the foundation for sustaining adequate fuel, heat, and food. The newest revolution is the ability to generate electricity from the sun's heat and light [5]. |
Solar Power Transistor Radio [9]
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Politics Involved in Solar Energy
After World War II, during the Truman presidency, a conscious effort made by William Paley to promote alternative energies, and explicitly discussed the potential of solar energy. Unfortunately, the idea of nuclear energy was far more polarizing, and had an impact beyond creating energy for the consumption of the citizens of the United States. Due to the nuclear arms potential in other countries, solar energy was neglected, and no further plans were made politically to advance solar energy [6]. |
2013 Ford Concept Solar Energi [8]
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Advances in Solar Energy
Advancing to the Eisenhower administration Calvin Fuller, Gerald Pearson, and Daryl Chaplin discovered the silicon solar cell. The cell had the capability to power small electronic devices. A few short years later, these were commercially available at the price of $300 per watt in the form of toys and radios with solar cells used to power them. Over a decade later, Exxon led research involving the application of solar into the oil and gas industry on off-shore rigs. Usage and research continued, leading to the use of solar in remote deserts, bringing water to soil, and on railroad crossings. Solar energy powers homes, industrial buildings, and concept vehicles. Technology is advancing exponentially, paving the future for how generations to come will power what would normally be powered by fossil fuels [7]. |