Build Your Own Solar Panels

Solar panels have been used in space exploration projects for decades, but most people don’t realize that this complicated technology can be simplified for home use to reduce energy and even replace an entire home’s energy consumption.

Learning how to build your own solar panels is not only useful, but it can fun! Most of the tools you will need for your project will be tools you already have in your garage and a few project-specific materials can be sourced from recycling centers or auction sites like eBay. You don’t have to have an engineering degree or be a master in the workshop… just the desire to create an alternative energy source for your home, a few dollars, and a couple of days (a weekend is ideal) is all it takes to build your own solar panels and install them.

 

Start with a list of materials and where you can source them (online or offline):

• Wood for frames/panel boxing (recycled wood works great)
• Plastic paneling (recycled, good conditions Plexiglas or similar)
• Black paint
• Waterproof sealant (silicone caulk)
• Solder
• Eva glue
• Wiring
• Solar cells (photovoltaic cells – look for recycled, inexpensive cells that are in good condition)
• Storage Battery
• Inverter
• The solar cells need to be joined together. Select cells that have tabs already – do not get the cheapest, no tab cells and beware cells manufactured in China.

The number of cells you will use depends on the amount of power you need to generate for your project. You may start be wanting to reduce your energy bills now with a few panels and add on more to your system as you build them, eventually generating enough energy and storage to power your entire home. Keep in mind – the best DIY systems usually only deliver about 80% of the output claimed.

Next, putting the cells together is just like completing a puzzle:

1. glue cells in a series of 36 total joined cells
2. a 6 x 6 configuration is most effective
3. be sure you join the tabs to make sure the energy only flows one way
4. place the 36-cell configuration on the backing board
5. fix to the inside of the frame/box that has been well insulated on the back side to prevent heat energy loss
6. paint the box framing black
7. cover the entire face of your new panel with a clear plastic panel that is screwed down and sealed with silicone for waterproofing. Caution: Water and humidity inside your sola panel will greatly reduce or completely eliminate energy production.

The next step is to connect your solar panel to a storage battery. You may need a series of batteries connected to each other depending on the size of your project. The batteries will release energy as needed during cloudy days or during the night. Most people will consult with an electrician at this stage and we highly recommend it.

The entire project will take a weekend at most for assembly and the work involved is not back-breaking or very difficult – especially if you have complete instructions, setup your materials in advance, and how-to videos also can be very helpful when it comes to understanding the currents generated by the solar cells, wiring them in series, etc .

Click Here To Discover How To Build Your Own Solar Panels Step-By-Step Plus Best Resources For Materials

To mount your solar panels, the roof of your home is usually best. The panels described here are very low profile, so they are easily mounted and a space-saving (as compared to on-ground systems). To mount of your roof:

1. Select a few feet of roof space that is not shaded by trees or other buildings
2. Roof surface should face South (Southerly direction) to maximize exposure to the sun’s rays
3. Insulate all wiring to avoid energy loss
4. Consulting an electrician for the final wiring and connection to inverter to power household appliances is recommended

Understanding how to build your own solar panels and that the project is relatively simple should not disguise the fact that diy solar panel projects like these can serious contribute to reducing your home’s energy demands.

At a time in our history when fossil fuel consumption is seeing wilderness areas under threat from drilling and mining activity, and the world’s oceans polluted with oil spills, any attempt to provide a workable alternative must be welcomed.

Solar power is just one of the diy project options that is environmentally neutral. When considering how to build your own solar panel, you should try to keep in the back of their mind that this is not just about getting cheaper power… The future well being of the next generation may very well depend on renewable energy initiatives being taken now.

The sun is likely to remain in existence far into the future of mankind, and it is never going to be charged for by a utility company! Learning how to build your own solar panels can be a fun project for the whole family to take part in, and it will create a real supply of alternative energy for anyone who cares about the environment and our future.

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