With the emergence of many solar companies over the last few years, and the popularity that it is gaining with the Solar Tax Credit, solar may seem like a “fad” or a “trend” that will pass. However, Aztec Solar has been pioneering solar in the Sacramento area for over 35 years and we’re confident that solar is here to stay.
A brief history on solar power
Solar power was first discovered back in 1876 when William Grylls Adams and Richard Day found that selenium produced electricity when exposed to light. Though the cells weren’t efficient, they could produce electricity without needing a moving part.
Fast forward to 1953 when a new cell was found to produce enough electricity to power a small device. Solar cells became available for purchase soon after that. Though the price was high at $300 for a 1 watt solar cell. In 1956, small toys and radios started coming with a solar battery. By the 60s, solar power was a standard for satellites. As new ways to produce solar cells came about, solar prices soon became more affordable.
When did residential solar start showing up?
Starting in the 70s, solar power started popping up on homes in remote locations and has grown exponentially since then. In 2006, more than 30,000 homes had solar panels installed, but just seven years later in 2013, that number had grown to over 400,000!
What does the future hold for solar?
As of right now, the US is on track to have over 1 million solar consumers by February of next year. By the year 2020, the US is projected to have up to 3.8 million homes with solar panels installed. The price of solar power has been dropping throughout the years, making solar power more affordable and more desirable.
You don’t want to miss out on the future of solar power. Call us today to set up your free consultation!