Michael Davis of Arizona has always had an interest in renewable energy. Last year he needed a way to provide electricity in a remote location and learned that used parts found on eBay can be used to build a solar-powered electric generator.
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.
Michael found some damaged PV cells on eBay and decided to give them a try by using them to construct his own solar-powered electric generator. Here is what he learned:
* They can perform almost as efficiently as new cells.
* These cells are much cheaper than new cells.
* They are readily available on eBay or from other sources
How To Construct Your Own Solar Generator
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. Calculate The Number Of Cells You'll Need
First, decide whether you want enough electricity for your entire home or just a few appliance. I would suggest starting with a small system and expanding it over time.
2. Find A Source For The PV Cells
While eBay isn't the only source for damaged or blemished cells, buying them online is convenient. With some investigation, you may be able locate other sources, including cell manufacturers or contractors that install panels.
3. Solder 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.
Depending on the size of your system, a single panel may be all you need, but you'll likely need several. They must be large enough to hold your cell assembly, but hopefully not so large that you can't carry them up to your roof, or wherever you will be mounting them. Panels can be connected together to form a system of virtually unlimited capacity.
5. Assemble, Test, And Mount The 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. Install Your Panels
Most likely, you'll want your panels to be on your roof, but you can place them anywhere that sunlight is available. If you're in the northern hemisphere, face them toward the south.
7.Hook Your Panels Up To Your House Wiring.
This is a step you may want to leave to a professional electrician. Wiring will have to be run from the panels and here are some items you will need to complete the project:
* Inverter - this device converts power from DC to AC
* Electric shut-offs for safety
* System monitor 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.
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.
Michael found some damaged PV cells on eBay and decided to give them a try by using them to construct his own solar-powered electric generator. Here is what he learned:
* They can perform almost as efficiently as new cells.
* These cells are much cheaper than new cells.
* They are readily available on eBay or from other sources
How To Construct Your Own Solar Generator
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. Calculate The Number Of Cells You'll Need
First, decide whether you want enough electricity for your entire home or just a few appliance. I would suggest starting with a small system and expanding it over time.
2. Find A Source For The PV Cells
While eBay isn't the only source for damaged or blemished cells, buying them online is convenient. With some investigation, you may be able locate other sources, including cell manufacturers or contractors that install panels.
3. Solder 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.
Depending on the size of your system, a single panel may be all you need, but you'll likely need several. They must be large enough to hold your cell assembly, but hopefully not so large that you can't carry them up to your roof, or wherever you will be mounting them. Panels can be connected together to form a system of virtually unlimited capacity.
5. Assemble, Test, And Mount The 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. Install Your Panels
Most likely, you'll want your panels to be on your roof, but you can place them anywhere that sunlight is available. If you're in the northern hemisphere, face them toward the south.
7.Hook Your Panels Up To Your House Wiring.
This is a step you may want to leave to a professional electrician. Wiring will have to be run from the panels and here are some items you will need to complete the project:
* Inverter - this device converts power from DC to AC
* Electric shut-offs for safety
* System monitor 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.
About the Author:
About the author: John Horning is an expert on solar-powered energy. Learn more about building a solar powered system for your home on his website, www.DIY-Solar-Power.net.
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