You bring in the mail, open this month’s energy bill only to find that it has gone up yet again. There is hope though, many people are finding that there is savings in learning how to build your own solar panels to reduce their energy bill.

I recommend starting by searching the web for deals on supplies to save on the assembly costs. There are also companies that will sell everything you need including plans and instructions. The tools needed to build your own solar panels generally are already in one’s garage and include a knife, hammer saw, screw drivers, and soldering iron. And the supplies list is simple as well, and most do it yourself fans have some or all of the wood and screws needed to make the box for the solar cells. The rest of what you’ll need is [pre tabbed photo-voltaic cells|pre tabbed solar cells], wiring, eva glue, solder, plastic sheeting for the lid of the panel, diodes to prevent energy back-flow, and you’re ready to begin.

Next, you’ll need to make a decision regarding your panel installation. You need to consider 2 things. Your panel will get the most light facing south at a tilt of 30 degrees and wiring will need to go from your panel to a battery array.

For this project you will need to allot about a weekends worth of time and make sure that you have a clean area to work free of dust and debris.  Learning how to build your own solar panels is not much more complicated then assembling a box once the solar cells have been attached to a backing board. You’ll need to connect the cells together using the wire to join the tabs. Don’t forget to add the diodes and connect the panel to the batteries using the cable. Lastly, you will thoroughly seal the panel with silicone caulk.

When mounting solar panels you you’ll want a second person for help. It’s an awkward job when on the roof. Its much easier, safer, and quicker with help.

If this project sounds like more work then you want to invest then you might want to look into purchasing a kit or even research pre built panels. But before you make your purchase you should seek references, read reviews, talk to someone you has already installed the product etc.

Learning how to build your own solar panels should be an exciting project for sure! Not only will it save you money on your electricity bill but can also give you independence from the utility company in times of power outages.