People have been using the sun's power for thousands of years, but solar technology as we know it today has a more recent history:

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Ancient Times:

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Romans and Greeks used the sun to heat buildings and water
They designed homes to capture sunlight during winter

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Modern Solar Development:

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1839: French scientist Edmond Becquerel discovered the photovoltaic effect (how sunlight creates electricity)

1954: Bell Labs created the first modern solar cell that could power everyday electrical equipment

1970s: Solar panels started appearing on homes during the energy crisis

1980s-1990s: Solar technology improved but was still very expensive

2000s-Present:

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- Prices dropped dramatically (about 90% cheaper than in 2000)
- More efficient panels were developed
- Many more homes started using solar power
- Government programs helped make solar more affordable

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Today, millions of homes worldwide use solar panels, and the technology keeps getting better and cheaper. In fact, solar is now often cheaper than traditional electricity in many places.