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As energy prices rise, it is always good to look for cheaper alternatives to slash bills. After initial costs, solar power is energy for free. Getting the kit installed can be pricey though; here are a few tips to help build your own solar panel.

The first thing is ensure you have the necessary tools and equipment. This will mean sourcing the best solar cells for you, which should be given a good portion of time to decide. There are many out there.

Other than this, you will need plywood, a circular saw, good sized length of 1 x 1, screws and screwdriver, caulk, outdoor paint, soldering equipment and solder, glue, copper wire, diode, batteries and Plexiglas.

The first step will be to draw a grid, suitable to your solar cells, on the plywood, (use them as a template). Having determined the size of the panel by this, you can cut the plywood to size and the fun can really start.

Take your 1 x 1 and cut to size; determined by the size of your plywood panel. The panel should be attached to these using your screws, and applying suitable amounts of caulk and painted with outdoor paint to protect from the elements.

The solar cells now need to be glued into place. However, they first need to be attached in a series. This is quite simple; soldering the tabs at the back of each together. It does need to be done carefully though, as the cells are delicate.

The copper wire should now be attached from the cell to the electrical system and batteries. To ensure no power is lost in the opposite direction, a diode line will also need to be attached at this point.

Finally, a suitable sized piece of Plexiglas should be attached with caulk. This will ensure it is weatherproofed, and cannot be damaged by debris and the like. Having learned to build your own solar panel, perhaps you’ll make enough power to sell back to the grid?

By using solar panels for homes you can save money, help the environment, and generate electricity using free energy from the sun with DIY solar panels.