Though the future for solar energy appears to be clear and better, a lot of people are still speculative about what the future really holds for solar energy. However, in order for us to be able to understand and properly predict what the future holds for solar energy, we need to first take a step back and look at what solar energy is right now. In order for you to fully understand more about solar and sustainable energy, and what the future holds for it, you need to learn more about the history of solar energy. This article will give you a chance to delve in deeper into solar energy s fascinating history. Historical Role Of Solar Energy One of the more common and more popular roles that the sun, or solar energy, played during those ancient times is that of a force that is able to sustain life based on its ability to give off renewable energy. The highest efficiency PV cells produced were by Boeing and SpectroLab in 2009, with efficiencies of around 35% to 41%. There are also other multi-layer cells that closely resembled the device. These were very expensive too, and were only used in the most unique applications. Thin film PV cells were also created and made in bulk. More and more homes, offices and devices are now relying on solar power as people are becoming more aware of the potential dangers of other unnatural sources of power. It is important that you know more about the idea to determine if it is the best option for you. Solar power can render several benefits for the long term. Grid-Tie Solar System The grid-tie solar system is very useful for homes that are already linked to the utility grid. The primary advantage of this kind of system is the cheap price of utility. The system needs to be wired with an inverter that creates pure-sine-wave AC electricity, which is needed for linking to the utility grid. Liquid-based systems involve the use of large water tanks or thermal mass for the storage of heat. Distribution is managed through radiant slab systems, hot-water baseboards and central forced air systems. Air-based systems involve rock bins or thermal mass that hold the heated air for storing. The hot air is circulated within the home using blowers and ducts.