How to Build a Solar Panel From Scratch – What You Need to Know
Saturday, March 13th, 2010Energy conservation is something we should all keep in mind before learning how to build a solar panel from scratch. It is cheaper to conserve the energy we are currently using, than trying to build a solar panel to make up for any over consumption. We can start saving money today by turning off the lights when we leave a room and unplugging any appliances from the outlets when not in use.
The next step in learning how to build a solar panel from scratch is to determine the energy you use. The average household uses 1KW or 1000 watts of power to run small appliances such as DVD players, microwave ovens, and lights. You can eliminate the cost of running those appliances by producing 1 KW of power by building a solar panel. One solar panel will generate about 100 watts of electricity. You can figure out how much energy you will need by looking at your electric bill and finding out how much energy you used in the previous month.
In building a solar panel from scratch, you will also need to learn about the following components:
- Array DC Disconnect: This is an important maintenance element of any solar panel system. This makes shutting off power from the solar panels easy and safe.
- Charge Controller: Utilizing a charge controller will help in improving the life and charge of your battery system (if you use one). This protects the batteries from being overcharged.
- Deep Cycle Battery: This is the best and safest battery to use with your solar panels. It will store the energy produced by the solar panels.
-Inverter: This is an integral part of any alternative energy system. This unit converts the DC energy provided by your solar panels and converts it into alternating current or AC current. If you wish to operate a DC appliance, then you will purchase a DC input from an auto parts store.
-Generator: This is not a necessary element for all solar energy systems, but it is beneficial for “off-grid” systems. Generators are used as a “back-up” source of power on days when there is not enough sunlight to produce electricity.
These materials are also needed to build a solar panel from scratch:
Solar Cells – You will attach these cells together and secure them on the panel.
Plywood or Masonite Board – This will be your panel that you secure the solar cell to.
UV protector – If you use plywood for your panel this will be used to coat the plywood to protect it from the weather.
Plexi-Glass – Used for the cover of the panel.
Tin Wire – Used in two different thicknesses to solder the cells together.
Silicone – Used to adhere the cells to the panel.
Solder, Solder Iron or Gun – Used to attach wire to cells.
Rosin Flux Pen – Used to prepare the cells to make soldering easier.
Nuts and Bolts – Used to attach frame to panel
Wood or Metal – Used as a frame.
Junction Box and Electrical Wire – Used to attach wire from panel and run to your inverter.
Volt Meter – Used to test your panel. (You can borrow this from an electrician.)
Author: Aleta Grahm
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Guest blogger