| The ancient history of solar power does not begin in | | | | the fleet on fire. |
| the 20th or 21st century. In order to note the true roots | | | | 20 AD - Again, mirrors are used in religious ceremonies |
| of this renewable power source, we have to travel | | | | to light candles, but this time by the Chinese. |
| back in time to 700 BC. | | | | 100 AD to 400 AD - For three hundred years, the |
| 700 BC - Ancient people are thought to have focused | | | | Romans use solar power to heat waters in bath |
| the power of the sun using magnifying glass. This light | | | | houses. Architects employ passive solar techniques by |
| was used to ignite fuels and fires. The result was heat, | | | | aligning windows in the south side of the building with |
| the ability to cook foods and light. | | | | the water. |
| 300 BC - Four hundred years later, the Greek and | | | | 600 AD - "Sun Rights" were established by the |
| Romans continue to use the sun to light fire. In this | | | | Justinian Code to ensure all people had access to the |
| case, mirrors are used to reflect and strengthen the | | | | sun. |
| beam of light in order to light religious candles. | | | | The history of solar power is far more advanced than |
| 200 BC - Archimedes took the power of the sun to | | | | one may think. While we have technologies to grow |
| new levels when a Roman fleet invaded Syracuse. | | | | the sun's potential, it is the roots of our ancestors that |
| Using reflective bronze, the scientist was able to set | | | | taught us to think on such a level. |