Friday’s Five – Interesting Solar Facts

• The history of solar power can be traced back to the 7th Century B.C. During this time, magnifying glasses used the sun’s rays to make fire.

• The Greeks and Romans were the first to use passive solar designs. Buildings with south-facing windows allowed the sun to heat and light indoor spaces.

• In 1921, Albert Einstein won the Nobel Prize for his theories on the photoelectric effect.

• Solar panels first appeared on the market in 1956.

• Space programs started using photovoltaic powered systems in 1958. They are still used today.