Photo credit: http://www.wrensnest.org
This sign from the 19th century might make you chuckle, particularly the last section in smaller font. When electricity was first introduced, it was revolutionary and it changed people’s lives and the entire world. With any new technology however, people need to learn about it, become familiar with it and understand it. Along with health and sleeping concerns, as indicated in this old sign, people were initially cautious about touching the walls of an electrified house as they were scared of being shocked! In the 21st century we may laugh off that fear but it was very real to people who had not fully understood this new technology.
After over 100 years of traditional power generation in Barbados, there are many other ways to generate electricity. This website highlights the simple, yet elegant way of generating electricity from sunlight shining on what appears to be a piece of glass. No moving parts, no noise, no fuel. Learn more about solar PV technology by looking around the site and feel free to ask a question using the form on the left. When electricity was first introduced in Barbados over a century ago, it transformed the island. Solar PV technology has the potential to do the same once it is better understood.