Solar energy is an increasingly popular topic thanks to the sheer abundance of sunlight and the renewable energy it provides. With climate change and rising energy prices looming over our heads, the adoption of solar power has never been greater. We sometimes forget, however, how fascinating solar technology and its history is as we take advantage of its benefits in our homes and businesses. So here are five cool facts about solar energy!
- Humans have Harnessed the Sun Since 700BC
Over the course of history, we’ve found ways to use the sun’s light and heat to change the world around us. Early man used glass lenses to intensify the sun’s rays and create fire more efficiently. The first device to produce electricity from the sun was created in 1883 by Charles Fritts. Scientists at Bell Labs developed the first modern solar-electric cell from silicone in 1854. The commercialization and increased adoption of solar energy in the last 40 years is just the latest evolution of our relationship with the sun. - Solar Energy is Abundant
Amazingly, the Earth receives enough solar energy in an hour and a half to meet all of humanity’s energy needs for a whole year if we could harness it effectively. We continue to improve upon our solar technologies and energy storage options to capture and convert that energy more effectively, and each generation of solar panels is better than the last. The abundance of this resource — especially in areas like ours along the Equator — gives hope to our efforts to end the use of fossil fuels. - Solar Becomes More Cost-Effective Every Year
Like many brand-new technologies, solar cells were prohibitively expensive to include in any project — to the tune of $230 per watt in 1965 (nearly $2,300 today). According to Our World in Data, the cost of solar photovoltaic units and the batteries that store clean energy have dropped by 90% in the last decade to less than $0.50 per watt. This is largely thanks to increases in production of these items that lead to iteration, innovation, and cost reduction. - Solar Adoption is Key to Reaching Global Climate Goals
Climate change is a huge threat to our world and needs to be actively managed. Globally, the goal is to cut emissions in half by 2030. The Hawai’i Clean Energy Initiative (HCEI) takes it one step further with a goal of using 100% renewable energy throughout the state by 2045. The falling costs and increased adoption of renewable energies makes this goal more achievable every year, as do the abundance of rebates, programs, and subsidies available that make green energy more accessible. - Hawaii is the Perfect Place for Solar
Our beautiful home gets more sunny days than many other states, while our electricity rates are the highest in the nation. We’re in the perfect position to simultaneously increase solar adoption and reduce our energy bills! Already, Honolulu is leading the country with over 1,100 watts of solar capacity installed per person, accounting for 17% of total electricity produced in the state and generating enough power for 368,000 homes. Also, Hawaii ranks fifth in the U.S. in the number of solar-related jobs per capita!
Interested in adding solar to your property? The team at Holu Hou Energy has years of experience designing and installing custom solar arrays that meet your energy needs. Our skilled contractors will help you find the right panel configuration and energy storage solution for your home or business. Contact us today to get started on your solar journey!
