There is no better way to learn how something works than to experience the complete process or system from start to finish.  So the best way to learn about solar electric systems is to build your own solar panels.  If you are an experienced electrical contractor, this will probably be a piece of cake for you.  But if you have never before picked up a screwdriver or soldering iron, you may want to start on a much smaller project instead — like a solar powered toy car — to see if you even enjoy the processes involved.  But if you’re ready, and if you have children who are interested in solar energy or who are learning about it in school, it is a perfect opportunity to build solar panels together as a family.

You have a few options to choose from for your solar panel project.  You can start from scratch and build a primitive solar cell from copper sheeting , glass and a frame. While this process might be fun from a scientific standpoint, the solar panel you end up with is not very useful or practical because the voltage it produces will hardly be high enough to illuminate a light bulb, let alone power appliances.   Still, you will learn something about the photovoltaic process if that’s your goal.

But if your goal is to produce solar panels that you can actually use to power appliances, like a laptop or a television, you won’t be making your own solar cells.  In order to generate the power you need, you will have to buy solar cells that are much more powerful for their size than the copper sheeting cell.  You’ll need silicon-based solar cells, which would be much too expensive to manufacture individually at home.

You will also need to make sure you use the proper materials for the tops, backings, frames and wiring.  The glass or Plexiglas that you use must be able to withstand the abuse it might have to take from hail storms, falling tree branches and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.  Also remember that your solar panels will be subjected to high temperatures during the hottest days of the year, so you will need to take precautions to ensure that the panels you build are fireproof.

Find a good set of instructions that addresses all of these issues.  Or find someone with electrical experience who is willing to coach you when questions arise.  And enjoy the process of learning more about solar energy.

Tags: solar cell, solar cells, solar electric systems, solar energy, solar panel, solar panels

Filed under: Alternative Energy, Solar Power by admin
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