In 1958, NASA launched its first satellite, Vanguard 1, which used solar panels to generate power. In 1960, Hoffman Electronics Corporation launched the first commercial solar panel, with an efficiency of 2%, making it impractical for large-scale power generation.
1970: Improvements in efficiency and production
In the 1970s, solar panels began to become more efficient and affordable. In 1973, the American company Solar Power Corporation launched a panel with 14% efficiency. In 1975, the Japanese company Sanyo launched a panel with 16% efficiency. In 1977, the German company Siemens Solar launched a panel with 17% efficiency. Furthermore, during the 1970s, solar panel production increased significantly, which led to lower prices.
1980: Its use in homes and buildings
In the 1980s, solar panels began to be used in homes and buildings. In 1984, the American company Kyocera launched a solar panel system for homes. In 1985, the German company Solarex launched a panel with 20% efficiency. Also during the 1980s, governments in several countries began offering incentives and subsidies to encourage the use of solar panels.
1990: Advances in technology
In the 1990s, there were several significant advances in solar panel technology. In 1992, the German company Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems developed a panel with an efficiency of 24%. In 1996, the American company SunPower launched a panel with an efficiency of 19%. Furthermore, during the 1990s, solar panels began to be used in more diverse applications, such as in marine navigation systems.
2000: Popularity increases
In the 2000s, the popularity of solar panels increased significantly. In 2004, the American company First Solar launched a panel with an efficiency of 14%. Also during the 2000s, governments in several countries began setting targets to increase the proportion of renewable energy used in their national energy mix.
2010: They become more affordable
In the 2010s, solar panels became much more affordable. In 2011, the Chinese company Yingli Solar launched a panel with an efficiency of 19.1%. In 2014, the American company SunPower launched a panel with an efficiency of 21.5%. Furthermore, during the 2010s, solar energy began to be used in more diverse applications, such as electric vehicle charging systems.
2020: More efficient and sustainable
In the 2020s, solar panels are expected to continue improving in efficiency and sustainability. Currently, several companies are working on developing solar panels with efficiencies exceeding 30%. Furthermore, solar panel production is expected to become increasingly sustainable, utilizing recycled materials and cleaner processes.
Solar panels have come a long way since their invention in the 1950s. Over the years, they have improved significantly in efficiency and affordability, leading to their current popularity.
