One of the most easily accessible resources is the sun. Solar energy is literally available to everyone. By building your own solar panels you can save money and gain knowledge that others will surely be interested in. The actual building can be done by anyone who has basic carpenty skills, a little bit of money and some time. The solar panel itself is simply a shallow box containing solar cells. The size of the box will depend on how much energy you want to convert. For example, 80 solar cells will generate 100 watts of electicity. The amount of energy that you need will also depend on where you are geographically located. The general example of 80 cells producing 100 watts of power is based on full sunlight. If you live in the northern hemisphere, keep in mind that the amount of sunlight you get may be significantly less. So, once that is established, the box can be made of plywood that’s lined with peg-board. This will house the solar cells. You should seal the wood with paint or varnish to protect it from the elements. Also, small holes should be drilled in the bottom portion of the box to allow heat and pressure to equalize. Once the cells are connected to each other, they can be attached to the box with silicon. The entire box should be covered with plexiglass to protect the cells and keep them free of moisture. The panels should then be placed either on the roof of your home or somewhere where there is a clear path to sunlight. Again, if you live in the north, you will definitely want the solar panels to be facing the south, as that is where you’ll get the most sunlight. The most costly part of building solar panels will be buying the solar cells. Cells that have minor imperfections can be purchased for a cheaper price either from manufacturers or online, and will still function fine.
Even though it does take a little bit of money and time, making diy solar panels will be well worth it. They will pay for themselves over time when you think about the alternative. Also, you will be helping the Earth by using a resource that is plentiful. Even though environmental problems are rising fast, it isn’t too late to change things. By doing something as simple as building solar panels you are truly helping the entire planet. Look at the bright side, use the sun!