Most people are aware of solar energy’s many benefits, but there are some facts that may surprise you. While it seems as though solar industry is just now paving its way towards a more sustainable future, it has been around for longer than one might think. In this blog we share a few little-known facts about solar energy and its history.
Solar Energy’s Abundancy
Solar energy is by far the most abundant energy resource on the planet – there’s no shortage of sunlight. At any given moment, there is an estimated 173,000 terawatts of solar energy hitting the Earth, which is 10,000 times the planet’s current energy usage.
The History Behind Solar
The first solar cell was created in 1954 by Bell Laboratories and has since then become a crucial component of the solar energy we use today. Solar cells are primarily responsible for converting the energy taken from the sun into energy we can use to power our homes and businesses.
Responsible for Rapid Job Growth
According to a study done by the Department of Energy, the solar industry responsible for creating jobs six times faster than the rest of the job market. There has been continuous growth and room for new employees to find career opportunities – solar companies are constantly seeking to fill positions in various departments including installations, sales, marketing, and software development.
The Space Industry Was an Early Fan of Solar Energy
NASA began utilizing the many benefits of solar energy in 1960 with Vanguard 1. It was the first artificial earth satellite that was powered by solar cells and is now regarded as the oldest manmade satellite in orbit.
Its Demand is at an All-Time High
In 2015, the solar industry experienced a 17% boom and its demand is only increasing. In fact, California was one of the first states to generate more than 5% of electricity from solar panels. The industry is expected to continue growing as more and more home and business owners take notice of its many benefits.
Ready to make the switch to solar? Contact SunPower by Alternative Energy Systems. We proudly serve customers in the North Valley, from Sacramento to Redding, CA. Call (855) 419-1488 or contact us online today!