Why not build your own solar panels? If you are handy at building or doing your own projects, then you might consider making your own solar panels. This is a project that can save you a ton of money, especially if you could install your own system. I have listed the things you need to get started building your own solar panels. One thing I might add about this project is that you start with just one panel and then after you figure out how many you need, you keep adding until you are done.

Materials needed:

• Solar cells- Of course you will need solar cells to get started. You can purchase solar cells from many manufacturers or buy on eBay©. Once you determine how many solar panels you want to build, then buy them. I suggest using a better grade of solar cell like an A- grade which makes it easier to build.

• Frame for solar panel- You will need to decide on the framework of your panel. My suggestion is to make your solar frame out of aluminum angle of 1/8th inch thick. You could make the frame using 1/16th inch angle but I built my solar frame to last for 30 years or more.

• Tempered glass for your solar panel- I am using ¼ inch thick tempered glass for my panel construction. Again, I stress strength and longevity for building your own solar panels. We want these to last many years, which is why I use the ¼ inch tempered glass. Tempered glass can be purchased online from many glass suppliers.

• Mounting your cells to the glass- You will need to purchase an encapsulating epoxy that can be purchased online in different amounts or measured for each solar panel. After I layout all my solar cells, I test them to be sure all my connections have been soldered, then I test them with a 300 watt light to see what DC voltage I am getting. Testing each stringer of cells can save you having problems later. After I encapsulate the completed panel, I will let set for about 4 days before it can be used.

• Use a guide book- I started building my solar system with the help of an instructional guide-book. I would suggest before you attempt building your own solar panels you purchase a step-by-step guide-book that will take you through the whole process from soldering to installing your finished solar system.

Now that you see what the basics are of building solar panels for your home, you might find this is something you might want to try. I was a little hesitant at first, and I broke my share of solar cells, but doing my own research and following a top-rated eBook on how to build my own solar and wind systems I succeeded! I just finished a new panel without breaking a single solar cell.

To see the guide books that I personally recommend; visit Earth Power Energy Systems and start building and save money. How much can you save? If you really take your time and do a good job with your project, I can honestly say you will save at least 1/3rd the cost of a commercial system.