I Wish I Knew How To Make Solar Panels
More and more, everyday individuals like you and me want to use newer ways to make renewable energy. When you consider the growing costs of fossil fuels, going green is quickly becoming a realistic option. The Do-It-Yourself electricity movement has largely become one of the fastest and best ways to save money and help the environment. The most commonly used solar technologies for homes and businesses are solar water heating, passive solar design for space heating and cooling, and photovoltaic solar panels for electricity. Making solar panels is easier than you might think, cost effective, and fun.
Here are some interesting projects to consider for using solar energy:
- your yard lights
- a TV
- a garage radio
- the garage fridge
There are a lot of ways to make a solar panel, none of which is very hard. Depending on the type of supplies you use, your solar panel will probably cost about 200 dollars. You have a choice of many types of supplies when you make homemade solar panels. Your first major expense will be to buy the solar cells. A recent search on Ebay showed tabbed solar cells for about $1.80 each and untabbed solar cells for about $1.10 each. Plywood might be your cheapest material to purchase, and you may even have some lying around the garage already. However, rather than plywood, I would recommend using a sheet of white or black plexiglass. It’s lighter, much nicer looking, and will last longer. You can probably find the size you need at your local hardware store or it can be purchased online.
Once you have the back of your solar frame, you’ll have to put a frame around the edge. You can use either aluminum C frame material or wood. Aluminum is more costly, but it will last a good deal longer and weather the elements better. Your final piece of the puzzle is the cover. Some people use a sheet of glass. I would not recommend using glass, simply because it’s so fragile. Clear, UV-protected plexiglass is the best option. Make sure, however, that it is UV-protected or it will turn yellow and hinder your panel’s effectiveness. As you start your project, plan out each step and put your plan into writing. You can easily make solar panels with the right guide book. The right manual will help steer you in the best direction to make good decisions. Start small and work big. Be realistic in your expectations. Your first panel may not be prettiest girl at the party, but you’ll get better.
Take the time to plan out your solar panel project. Budget your project and balance cost with longevity. Just because you have an old scrap of plywood lying against the back fence does not mean that you have to use it just to save a few dollars. You may opt for untabbed solar cells to offset the cost of a plexiglass frame over a wood frame. Finally, keep in mind that you will be working with electricity, so have fun, but always be safe.
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