How do solar panels work?

That is a good question. Seems strange that simple, static, and silent squares sitting up on a roof can actually produce useable electricity. But, that is one of the wonders of technology, that somehow sunlight hitting these panels can be turned into energy. I’m glad someone figured out how to make it happen!

Solar panels are made up of mainly photovoltaic cells, which absorb the sunlight and convert it into electricity (through some complicated processes that I don’t really understand, or care to understand. All I care about is that they actually work!). The cells are wired together so the electricity can flow from the cells into a main power wire and then down into a power generator, or, big battery, that stores all the electricity until an appliance needs it.

Point of the matter is, the actual processes that take place in solar panels are complicated and hard to understand, but that shouldn’t keep you from using them, because they sure do work well!

Today, millions of people use solar panels to provide electricity for their homes, as it is a cheap, well, actually free, and clean alternative to electricity from the fossil fueled power plants. Solar panels are somewhat expensive if you have them professionally installed. You’ll probably spend a couple thousand to do it.

What is really cool, and most people don’t even realize, is that you can build your own solar panels for a measly couple hundred dollars! Really, you can; no joke.

Many D.I.Y.ers built their own solar panels and watched their monthly energy bills shrink. You can join them! If you are willing to put in some work and time, you can build your own solar panels and slash your energy bill in half, or eliminate it.

Don’t have the faintest clue about how to build solar panels?

Not a problem! People rarely do when they start out. The great thing is, you can use a DIY solar panel guide to lead you through the entire process. Just like when you build your own deck, or construct your own backyard shed, a good DIY guide will really help.

A nice DIY solar panel guide will tell you exactly what parts and tools you need to purchase or rent, and will tell you where to get them. It will also have step-by-step directions on assembling all your panels, and include good tips for maintaining your panels so they last for a long time. A really good DIY guide will also have a money-back guarantee (most guides cost about $50) and will include a video library with tutorial videos on some of the more technical aspects of solar panel construction, like wiring the photovoltaic cells together.

My personal recommendation of a great DIY solar panel guide is Green DIY Energy. They have great directions, and a ton of helpful content and videos to help you through the entire process. Their guide costs $50 and is guaranteed; if you don’t like it, return it and get your money back.

Start your DIY solar panel project today!