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.
Most of us understand the benefits of using the sun to produce electricity. Sunlight is available for free and there is less harm to the environment. Up until now, the main stumbling block has been the cost of solar panels which contain electricity-producing photovoltaic (PV) cells.
In searching for a source of PV cells, Michael found some on eBay that were damaged or blemished. Here is what he learned when he used them to construct his own solar-powered electric generator:
* Damaged PV cells can perform just as efficiently as new cells.
* They are just a fraction of the cost of new cells.
* They are readily available on eBay or from other sources
Steps in Building Your Own Solar Panels
Once you find a source for the PV cells, the rest is relatively easy. Here are the basic steps you will need to follow when building your own solar-powered generator:
1. Determine How Many Cells You 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. Find A Source For The PV 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
All of the cells must be connected together in order to function properly. This will likely involve the use of solder and special wire. You can learn to perform this process with a little practice.
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. Assemble And Install Your Panels
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. Mount The 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.
As a final step, you will need to connect the panels to your home’s electrical system, or at least to the lights and appliances that you want to run. In addition to wiring, you’ll need these items:
* Inverter – to convert power from DC to AC
* Safety shut-offs
* Solar energy monitor, Net meter, and Battery back-up (optional)
With a little guidance, you can complete this project on your own, and be on your way to to freedom from dependence on the power company.
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