The Evolution of Solar Energy through the Centuries, a Historical Perspective

摘要

This paper presents a historical perspective of technologies developed for the utilization of solar energy and the efforts that have been made to achieve global practical applications for the benefit of mankind. The first ideas and highlights emphasize efforts made to trap and convert this solar energy into a usable form of energy. Solar collectors (and concentrators), photovoltaics and solar energy desalination are briefly covered. In spite of outstanding progress, at this point in time, some solar technologies still need development before they can become commercially and economically compatible with conventional energy sources.