Michael Davis of Arizona has always had an interest in renewable energy. Last year he needed a way to provide electricity in a remote location and learned that used parts found on eBay can be used to build a solar-powered electric generator.
Most of us understand the benefits of using the sun to produce electricity. Sunlight is available for free and there is less harm to the environment. Up until now, the main stumbling block has been the cost of solar panels which contain electricity-producing photovoltaic (PV) cells.
Michael knew that damaged or blemished PV cells were available on eBay and purchased some, not sure if they would work. This is what he learned when he used them to build a solar-powered electric generator:
* Less then perfect cells can still perform efficiently.
* Damaged/blemished cells make solar panels much more affordable.
* They can be purchased on eBay or from other sources.
Steps in Building Your Own Solar Panels
You can start saving money right now by building your own solar-powered generator. Here are the basic steps:
1. Calculate The Number Of Cells You'll Need
First, decide whether you want enough electricity for your entire home or just a few appliance. I would suggest starting with a small system and expanding it over time.
2. Find A Source For The PV Cells
eBay is a good source for used or blemished cells, but you might also ask the cell manufacturers or contractors that install panels if they have used or damaged units. Be aware that all PV cells are not alike and have different performance ratings
3. Connect The Cells Together
If the cells are not already connected together, you will need to connect them yourself. This is done by laying them out in the desired pattern to fit into the panel described in the next step. You then use solder and metal strips or wire to join them together.
4. Construct The Solar Panel
Depending on the size of your system, a single panel may be all you need, but you'll likely need several. They must be large enough to hold your cell assembly, but hopefully not so large that you can't carry them up to your roof, or wherever you will be mounting them. Panels can be connected together to form a system of virtually unlimited capacity.
5. Assemble And Install Your Panels
Mount your solar cell assembly inside the panel. Cover the panel with Plexiglas to increase its efficiency. and will help protect your panel from the elements. Before installing the panel on the roof, test it out in direct sunlight.
6. Mount Your Solar Panels
Most homeowners mount solar panels on the roof, but they can go anywhere that sunlight is unobstructed. Face them southward if you live in the northern hemisphere.
7.Hook Your Panels Up To Your House Wiring.
As a final step, you will need to connect the panels to your home's electrical system, or at least to the lights and appliances that you want to run. In addition to wiring, you'll need these items:
* Inverter - to convert power from DC to AC
* Electric shut-offs for safety
* Optional energy monitor and battery back-up.
With a little guidance, you can complete this project on your own, and be on your way to to freedom from dependence on the power company.
Most of us understand the benefits of using the sun to produce electricity. Sunlight is available for free and there is less harm to the environment. Up until now, the main stumbling block has been the cost of solar panels which contain electricity-producing photovoltaic (PV) cells.
Michael knew that damaged or blemished PV cells were available on eBay and purchased some, not sure if they would work. This is what he learned when he used them to build a solar-powered electric generator:
* Less then perfect cells can still perform efficiently.
* Damaged/blemished cells make solar panels much more affordable.
* They can be purchased on eBay or from other sources.
Steps in Building Your Own Solar Panels
You can start saving money right now by building your own solar-powered generator. Here are the basic steps:
1. Calculate The Number Of Cells You'll Need
First, decide whether you want enough electricity for your entire home or just a few appliance. I would suggest starting with a small system and expanding it over time.
2. Find A Source For The PV Cells
eBay is a good source for used or blemished cells, but you might also ask the cell manufacturers or contractors that install panels if they have used or damaged units. Be aware that all PV cells are not alike and have different performance ratings
3. Connect The Cells Together
If the cells are not already connected together, you will need to connect them yourself. This is done by laying them out in the desired pattern to fit into the panel described in the next step. You then use solder and metal strips or wire to join them together.
4. Construct The Solar Panel
Depending on the size of your system, a single panel may be all you need, but you'll likely need several. They must be large enough to hold your cell assembly, but hopefully not so large that you can't carry them up to your roof, or wherever you will be mounting them. Panels can be connected together to form a system of virtually unlimited capacity.
5. Assemble And Install Your Panels
Mount your solar cell assembly inside the panel. Cover the panel with Plexiglas to increase its efficiency. and will help protect your panel from the elements. Before installing the panel on the roof, test it out in direct sunlight.
6. Mount Your Solar Panels
Most homeowners mount solar panels on the roof, but they can go anywhere that sunlight is unobstructed. Face them southward if you live in the northern hemisphere.
7.Hook Your Panels Up To Your House Wiring.
As a final step, you will need to connect the panels to your home's electrical system, or at least to the lights and appliances that you want to run. In addition to wiring, you'll need these items:
* Inverter - to convert power from DC to AC
* Electric shut-offs for safety
* Optional energy monitor and battery back-up.
With a little guidance, you can complete this project on your own, and be on your way to to freedom from dependence on the power company.
About the Author:
About the author: John Horning has a website devoted to solar energy. Learn more about building a solar powered system for your home on his website, www.DIY-Solar-Power.net.
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