Michael Davis, an astronomer from Arizona, has found an inexpensive way to produce electricity that can be used to power a home. He found some damaged and blemished solar cells on eBay, and decided to use them to construct his own solar panels.

The potential benefits of solar power are well known – lower cost, less dependence on other natural resources, etc. The main drawback has been the initial expense – mostly in the cost of photovoltaic (PV) cells required to convert sunlight into electricity.

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:

* Damaged PV cells can perform just as efficiently as new cells.

* These cells are much cheaper than new cells.

* They are readily available 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

This will be based on the amount of power you use and the amount of sunlight available to you throughout the year. Since it takes a lot of photovoltaic cells to completely power your home, you may want to consider starting small – only providing enough electricity to power some lights and essential appliances.

2. Locate And Purchase Photovoltaic Cells

Damaged or blemished cells can be found on eBay or from other sources. Although, even a badly damaged cell will produce electricity, you’ll want to find ones with minimal damage and the highest efficiency rating. Also try to avoid cells that are coated with a protective wax because this is difficult to remove.

3. Connect The Cells Together

The cells must all be connected together. They may have tabs that simplify this or you will have to wire them together. You will likely need to do some soldering.

4. Build A Panel To Hold The Cells.

The solar panel is a shallow box that holds the PV cells. You’ll mostly construct this from wood, but other materials will work. The size is not critical but should be small enough that you can handle it easily.

5. Put It All Together

Place your completed solar cells inside the panel, running the wires out through holes. Then cover the panel with Plexiglas. This will increase their efficiency and make the whole system more weather-resistant. Finally, test the panel under the sun using a multimeter.

6. Install Your Panels

Select a location for your panels that is never in the shade. If you live north of the equator, face the panels southward. If installed on the roof, make sure they are flashed properly to avoid roof leaks.

7.Hook Your Panels Up To Your House Wiring.

To complete your project, you’ll need to run wires from your panels to your home’s electrical system. Here are some additional items you will need:

* Inverter – to convert power from DC to AC

* Emergency shut-off switches

* System monitor and Battery back-up (optional)

Depending on your level of expertise, you may need professional help to complete portions of this project. Then you can begin enjoying the benefits that solar energy offers.

Tags: electricity, energy, environment, garden, gardening, home, savings, solar panel, solar power, wind power

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