The Forgotten Invention: Why Solar Energy Took 180 Years to Succeed

Solar energy, a technology discovered in the 19th century, has taken nearly two centuries to gain global acceptance. The history of solar energy reveals why it was overlooked for so long and what led to its eventual breakthrough. The ability to convert sunlight into energy has been known since the 19th century, yet it was only in the last four decades that solar power has been produced on a large scale. A key factor in this delay was the lack of political decisions to implement innovations, as highlighted by inventor Thomas Edison’s belief in the potential of solar energy back in 1931.

While the technology behind solar panels was understood during Edison’s time, the focus remained on fossil fuel sources like oil, gas, and coal due to their profitability. However, in the mid-1970s, the cost of solar electricity began to plummet, making it more accessible for individuals to adopt solar power. This drop in price was a game-changer, positioning solar energy as one of the most cost-effective forms of energy generation alongside wind and hydropower.

The history of solar energy dates back to the 19th century when the photovoltaic effect was first described by physicist Alexandre Edmond Becquerel in 1839. Despite this early knowledge, it took over a hundred years before the first usable solar panel was developed in 1953. The lack of investment from governments and private energy companies hindered the growth of solar technology until the 1970s oil crisis prompted some countries to explore alternative energy sources.

The 2000s marked a significant acceleration in solar panel production, driven by initiatives such as Germany’s Renewable Energy Act that incentivized investments in renewable energy. China emerged as a global leader in renewable energy, making substantial investments in solar technology and production facilities. Today, Chinese solar panels are widely adopted due to their affordability, leading to a global shift towards solar power.

Despite the rapid decline in solar energy prices, concerns have been raised about private energy companies’ reluctance to invest in renewables due to lower profit margins compared to fossil fuels. Economist Brett Christophers argues that state investment is crucial to drive the transition to clean energy, emphasizing the pivotal role of political decisions in shaping the energy landscape.

The evolution of solar energy underscores the importance of political will in driving innovation and sustainability. Without strategic investments by countries like Germany and China, the widespread adoption of solar energy would not have been possible. As the world continues to confront climate challenges, public investment remains essential to further advance solar technology and combat reliance on fossil fuels.