The use of solar energy has a fascinating history dating back to ancient times. People recognized the potential of the sun as an energy source early on and experimented with burning mirrors to generate heat. These early findings laid the foundations for the development of solar thermal energy. Horace-Bénédict de Saussure, a French naturalist of the 18th century, was a pioneer in this field and constructed the first solar collector. His simple but effective approach of collecting sunlight in a dark box covered with a pane of glass impressively demonstrated the principle of solar energy utilization.

In the 19th century, Augustin Bernard Mouchot built on Saussure’s work and developed a solar-powered steam engine, which represented another significant advance in the use of solar energy. The innovations of Mouchot and other researchers paved the way for modern solar thermal energy, which today plays an important role in sustainable energy supply. Clarence M. Kemp, an American metal manufacturer, received the first patent for a solar thermal system in 1891, marking the beginning of a new era in solar technology.

Since then, the technology has continued to evolve and has become an integral part of global efforts to promote and utilize renewable energy sources. Modern solar collectors are highly sophisticated and efficient, and solar thermal is just one aspect of the many applications of solar energy, which also include photovoltaics and concentrated solar power.

The discovery of the photoelectric effect and the development of photovoltaics are fascinating chapters in the history of science. They show how chance observations and targeted experiments can lead to groundbreaking technologies. Alexandre Edmond Becquerel laid the foundations without understanding the exact mechanism, and Charles Fritts built on this by creating the first working solar cell, despite its low efficiency. The work of Albert Einstein and the researchers at Bell Laboratories expanded our understanding of how light can be converted into electrical energy, eventually leading to the development of solar cells with an efficiency of over 30 percent. These advances are not only scientifically significant, but also have practical implications for our ability to harness clean energy and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. The history of the solar cell is a shining example of how curiosity, persistence and interdisciplinary collaboration can lead to innovations that can change the world.

The future of photovoltaics and solar energy

The photovoltaic industry is on the cusp of a new era of energy generation. With the continuous improvement of solar cell technology, which is now achieving efficiencies that were unimaginable just a few decades ago, and the increasing integration of solar energy into our everyday infrastructure, solar energy is positioning itself as a key component in the fight against climate change. Companies such as WECASS-BRAUN are playing a crucial role in this development, not only by bringing innovative products to the market, but also through their commitment to sustainability and efficiency.

The development of photovoltaics is a particularly exciting field that is revolutionizing the way we think about energy. Advances in energy storage technology, making more efficient use of the energy generated by photovoltaics by enabling the storage of surplus energy for times when the sun is not shining, is another key advance.

WECASS-BRAUN’S commitment to quality and service is evident in every aspect of our work, from the careful planning of each project to the selection of materials and the execution of the installation. The maintenance of solar installations is also a critical factor in the longevity and efficiency of the systems, and the company ensures that each installation functions optimally and delivers the highest possible energy yield.

Would you like to write your own success story in photovoltaics?