Did Charles Fritts invent solar power?

This article delves into the historical milestones of solar power, spotlighting Charles Fritts’ 1883 invention of the first photovoltaic cell, a cornerstone in the annals of solar energy. Charles Fritts, often a lesser-known figure in the pantheon of scientific pioneers, played a pivotal role in harnessing the sun’s power.

Who invented solar panels?

However, solar cells as we know them today are made with silicon, not selenium. Therefore, some consider the true invention of solar panels to be tied to Daryl Chapin, Calvin Fuller, and Gerald Pearson's creation of the silicon photovoltaic (PV) cell at Bell Labs in 1954.

Where did solar panels come from?

According to CleanTechnica, the world's first rooftop solar array, using Fritts' selenium cells, was installed in 1884 on a New York City rooftop. Bellingcat, however, attributes a photo of the cells to the roof of George Cove 's laboratory. Fritts coated the semiconductor material selenium with an extremely thin layer of gold.

How efficient was Fritts' solar cell?

While Fritts' solar cell was not as efficient as contemporary solar panels, it demonstrated the fundamental principle of generating electricity from sunlight. Fritts' solar cell was based on the photovoltaic effect, a phenomenon where certain materials produce an electric current when exposed to light.

What was the first solar cell invented?

In 1883, Fritts constructed the first solar cell by coating selenium with an extremely thin layer of gold. This simple yet revolutionary device marked the birth of photovoltaics – the conversion of light into electricity.

When did solar cells become practical?

Solar cells later became practical for power uses after Russell Ohl 's 1941 development of silicon P/N junction cells that reached efficiencies above 5% by the 1950s/1960s. By 2006, the best silicon solar cells were over 40% efficient, with industrial average over 17%.