Do your electric bills shock you every month? Do not worry. You can greatly reduce your electricity bills by using solar panels. It is a renewable energy source and you can be happy that you have made a useful contribution to the earth. It is a universally accepted truth that it is one of the best sources of alternative energy. The main reason most people are reluctant to install solar panels is their initial cost. The good news is that they can be built at home.
How to build solar panels? You must first have an idea about the materials needed to build a solar panel.
List of Materials Needed: Solar Cells, Interconnecting Cables, Backing Plate, Multimeter, White ABS Foil, Acrylic Bars, Soldering Iron, Welding Equipment, and Glued Aluminum Frame.
Process
1. First decide how much output you need. The number of solar cells depends on the output requirement. Generally, the number of solar cells required ranges from 30 to 36. Solar cells can be made at home or purchased online. You can also get used solar cells online. If they are in good condition, you can win a jackpot.
2. Put the solar cells together. Measure the voltage produced using a multimeter.
3. Replace and regroup the cells until you get the most out of them.
4. Once you get the maximum output, you can proceed to connect the cells with the interconnect cables. Interconnecting cables must be added with a soldering iron strip on both sides. Solder the wires together. Now the cells are connected.
5. Next, you need to solder the interconnected solar cells on a backing plate. You must be careful when soldering the cells to the board. Care must be taken to ensure that excessive heat is not applied because too much heat can cause damage.
6. Once the cells are arranged intact in the desired position, you can proceed to connect. The positive terminal of one cell is connected to the negative terminal of another. Cells can be protected with a waterproof and UV proof sheet.
7. Place them on the white ABS sheet. Solder the positive and negative ends again.
8. Take two acrylic sticks. Attach one stick to the top and another to the bottom of the sheet with the glue.
9. You can add more between solar cells to maximize absorbed solar energy.
10. Position it correctly so that it receives maximum sunlight. Be careful when placing the solar panel to avoid falling hazards.
Some useful tips for you
1. First formulate a budget. This decides the size and type of solar panel. Off-grid panels are more expensive than solar panels for water heaters or garage, etc.
2. Make sure you buy the correct type of solar cells. Photovoltaic cells are cheaper. Avoid using grade B cells. You cannot get the desired output. Also avoid cells dipped in wax. Chinese solar cells are cheap, but not high quality. Don’t buy them if you want your solar panel to be sustainable.
3. Materials can be purchased at hardware stores, online stores, auctions, and sales. Make sure you get the best deal on the materials. Compare prices and quality and then look for the best.
4. The solar panel should be mounted in a dry and dust-free place to avoid maintenance problems.
5. You should go for them only if you have sun for many months of the year. If you get sunlight for only a month or two, you may not be able to get your money’s worth in a short period. Make sure the time and money and hard work are worth it.
There is another option to build solar panels. You can get many DIY solar panel kits on the market. They are available with clear step-by-step instructions. They can be understood even by a novice. Although they are more expensive, it saves a lot of time and labor. They are the necessity of the moment because you hear the slogan ‘Go Green’ wherever you go.