Building Your Own Solar Panel

By Author: Randy Hough
Total Articles: 9
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It is quite possible to build your own solar panel, in fact, it is not actually that difficult.

Depending on your interest level and the amount of money you are willing to spend, there are a few ways to build your own solar panel.

One option is to purchase a complete kit which contains all the supplies and instructions. This would include the solar cells, framing, solder and flux, etc. If you are looking to begin in a limited manner, and can afford it, this makes good sense. Most of the kits offer rather small panels, but you can certainly find larger ones, though they are more expensive.

You can also manage the entire project on your own, which involves quite a bit of research and work. However, a good friend of mine has actually become somewhat of an master in building solar panels from scratch. But be aware that he is a carpenter, plumber and heating and cooling technician.

How you can build your solar panel

If you can follow simple proceduresbasic instructions, are willing to takea few days off to work on it, and don't want to spend much money, then you should buy an instructional kit online.These ...
... kits show you how to save a great deal of money by obtaining the materials yourself from local suppliers.

Many online kits have excellent tutorial videos along with the written material. Personally, I prefer the videos because it fits my learning style much better. It is assumed that you know next to nothing about building anything, so anyone with a desire and some very basic skills can do it. One other side benefit is the help in finding free batteries, which can be very expensive.

The instructions are not highly technical; they are written for regular people who do not have a Masters Degree in Physics or Engineering. All you need is common sense and some guidance.

Solar is for kids

You can include children when you building a solar panel. Not only will they get experience with the actual, real-life panel, but you can also make a simple solar energy panel in your kitchen. This provides a wonderfullearning experience that they will never forget

Right in your own kitchen your kids can make a small solar panel out of everyday materials. Children usually have little idea of what it actually takes to provide energy at home. Their interest in similar subjects may also increase.

Why you should build your own solar panel

Probably the biggest reason is for the money savings. You will certainly notice a change in your monthly electric bill All this with a minimum of expense and work!

Then there is the very good reason of reducing your carbon footprint and impact on the environment. If we all do our part to reduce the size of our carbon footprint, we will be part of the solution. If you build your own solar panel you are taking a small step in the right direction.
Randy Hough, Jon Arnett and company have been involved with energy saving programs for many years in such places as Alaska, Wisconsin, Norway and Croatia. Recently they constructed a passive and active solar heated villa in Croatia, which is beautiful and efficient at the same time (plus it is right on the Adriadic Sea). Check out their website: http://www.SolarOnYourOwn.com to help you in your quest for reducing your energy dependence. This is a great place to learn how to build your own solar panel, get off the grid, and save money.
Find out how you can save money, save energy, and save the earth!