Ecobuild Emirates

This is an incredibly simplified step-by-step guide to make your own solar panels at home. The infomation was sourced mainly from DIY Solar which has full details on building a solar panel.

If you are interested in protecting the environment, saving money and handyman projects on the weekend then building your own solar panels ticks all three boxes. Building your own solar panels is easier than most people anticipate and can be an extremely rewarding experience. The cost of building a solar panel is minimal and cit can usually pay for itself in a few months with the savings in your electricity bills. Anyway enough rambling from me, lets get into it. Heres the 6 step guide to building your own solar panel.

Things You’ll Need:

• 16 volt solar panel
• Rechargeable 12 volt lead or acid battery
• Battery box
• DC meter
• Inverter
• Handheld drill

Step 1
First things first you need to find yourself a small solar panel that is 12 volts or higher. In this case a 16 volt solar panel will suit your needs the best.
It is pretty easy to find a panel like this and your best bet is to go shopping at a local RV store or even a small marina. You should be able to find one that is priced around or even below $100.

Step 2
The next thing you are going to need is a battery. While you may be tempted to go big or go home on this one, a smaller yet rechargeable battery is your best bet.
A 12 volt lead or acid battery will do the trick. The type you are looking for here is a deep cell battery as they are built the best for constant and continuous use.

Step 3
In order to build your solar panel safely you will also want to purchase a battery box. This will offer protection from the battery and the power it exudes in case you are working in small quarters or have small children running around in the area.

Step 4
The next materials required are a DC meter that matches the voltage of your battery and a DC input. These products will allow you to convert your energy from the panel and apply them to power sources around your home. Of course if you are hoping to power AC appliances you will need an inverter as well.

Step 5
It is now time to actually put the labor into your solar panel. Use a handheld drill to attach your meter and DC input to the top end of the battery box. Next use some insulated wire to connect the meter to the battery.
Be very careful to only work with one wire at a time and connect the first wire to the negative input first. Use the same procedure to connect the DC inlet and the solar panel to the battery itself.

Step 6
Now you are ready to start converting the sun’s power into your own usable energy. Close the lid tight with a cord and put the entire product out into the sun. Wait for about 8 hours and then get ready to bask in some home made energy.

For full instructions, including images and videos please see the full guide at DIY Solar.