What if I told you that you can avoid paying thousands of your hard-earned bucks on power bills by installing a simple, do it yourself power system for less than $200? Better still, you can earn loads of cash. Yes, power companies can pay you for generating electricity!

If there is sufficient energy from the sun falling on the earth’s surface to heat the entire world for one year, then why aren’t we using solar energy? Setting up a DIY solar panel kit is almost like child’s play.

With the depressing economic situation showing little signs of recovery and persistent global warming issues, saving money and going green is the in-thing. There are many ways to save money and conserve energy using environmentally friendly renewable sources. None is more talked about than solar power. Here are a few tips to get more bang for your buck without falling for the ever-rising power bills:

1. If you got sun, it’s about time to go solar. Think of setting up a solar powered home. Solar panels are generally expensive. You can start with a small 12 or 16 volt solar panel from your local RV store which should cost you about $100. In addition, you will need a 12 volt rechargeable lead or acid battery, battery box, DC meter and an inverter to convert current to AC which is necessary to power home appliances. Here are a few simple steps:
   • Use a handheld drill to attach the meter and DC input to the top end of the battery box. Make use of insulated wire to connect the meter to the battery.
   • Connect one wire at a time and make sure to connect the first wire to the negative input first.
   • Similarly, connect the DC inlet and the solar panel to the battery.
   • Close the lid with a tight cord and take out the whole system out into the sun. In approximately 8 hours, the kit should convert heat from the sun to sufficiently power your home. How is that for your first DIY home solar power system?
2. Harness the power of sun’s rays using awnings. These can be either Venetian or the popular hood awnings. Venetian can adjust to the position of the sun at any point in time to let in heat during winter and even cool your house during summer if needed. On the other hand, hood awnings are more appealing and work well during rainy weather. They help eliminate heat loss by keeping moisture away from windows.
3. Use solar screens made of durable shade cloths. They help keep homes cool during summer by drastically reducing the amount of infrared and harmful ultraviolet rays passing through. This is achieved through dispelling heat outside rather than within the house.
4. Install insulated blinds suited to the weather conditions in your area. Cold areas require blinds that absorb sunlight to keep the house warm. Hot areas will need light-reflecting blinds to keep your house cooler by pushing the sun’s heat back outside the house.
5. Use portable panels. These are good for generating electricity for outdoor needs such as heating a pool or a hot tub.
6. Install solar thermal heating panels or tubes on your roof.
7. Make use of simple techniques to reduce energy costs. These include checking for leaks in your windows and doors, and replacing them with those that are ‘energy-tight’.
8. Replace old appliances with newer solar-powered devices which are readily available from your local store and online vendors.

Solar energy can expensive to acquire and maintain. A fully functional active solar powered system doesn’t come cheap but is well worth the investment. Anyone can set up a solar energy system. Discover how thousands are not just saving on their bills, but also make bundles of money while generating power.