Joshua Pearce, a professor at Western University and co-author of the free ebook “To Catch the Sun” on DIY solar systems, emphasizes that turning sunlight into electricity is not just magic but something anyone with modest technical skills can accomplish. Whether it’s constructing modules from individual cells or building photovoltaic systems using commercially available modules, getting involved in solar energy is within reach.
The key components of a solar panel are photovoltaic cells, tab wires, and an encapsulation material like glass. These materials are easily accessible online or at hardware stores in various sizes, allowing you to tailor your panels to specific projects.
Starting small is recommended not only for simplicity but also because larger panels are actually cheaper to buy than to make. Pearce suggests beginning with a smaller panel that can power devices like a water pump for your yard. This allows you to practice soldering and become familiar with the materials involved.
It’s important to exercise caution during the project, as you will be working with electrical components and tools that can pose risks. While there is a minor risk of wiring mistakes, creating shorts, or burns from the soldering iron, these hazards can be mitigated with proper safety measures.
Once you’re ready for a bigger endeavor, constructing a solar panel system to meet most of your home’s energy needs is entirely feasible. The economic advantage lies in doing most of the work yourself and having an electrician connect the system to the grid, which costs about half as much as hiring a solar installer.
For such projects, it is advisable to purchase premade solar panels rather than assembling them from scratch, as it is more cost-effective. Fit the panels into racks (which can be self-built) and position them to maximize exposure to sunlight. This type of system can power devices that run on direct current, or with the help of an inverter, it can convert the electricity to alternating current for standard American electrical devices.
Testing the system with a multimeter is crucial, but it is recommended to involve a licensed electrician to ensure proper functionality. Connecting your system to the electrical grid also requires the assistance of a licensed professional.
Step-by-step Guide:
- Purchase solar panel components: PV cells, tab wires, and encapsulation material (such as glass).
- Prioritize safety by wearing gloves and safety goggles.
- Measure, stretch, and cut the tab wires.
- Solder the tab wires to the front and back of the solar cells.
- Test the connections using a multimeter.
- Ensure the wires are pulled away from the cells, preventing them from being sealed inside.
- Choose between laminating the cells for a short-lived panel or encapsulating them in glass. Clean the glass, place the cells on the bottom sheet, and carefully position the other piece of glass on top.
- Seal the panel with caulk or glue.
- Connect your DIY panel to a DC-powered device and celebrate the achievement of powering a device with the sun!
