How to Make a Solar Panel

Did you know that 55% of the world’s new renewable energy is now solar?

It can be difficult to find accurate information on how to make a solar panel.

There are a lot of guides out there on how to make a solar panel, but most of them are inaccurate or incomplete.

But don’t worry. Keep reading because we’ve created this solar panel guide to show you how to make a solar panel the right way, using only the best, most reliable information.

Gather the Materials

First, you’ll need to gather the necessary materials. You’ll need wood for the frame, Plexiglas, or another type of clear plastic for the panel, photovoltaic cells, wire, solder, and a silicone sealant.

Once you have all of your materials, you can begin assembling the frame. Cut the wood to size and assemble it using screws or nails.

Assemble the Frame

The next step is to attach the Plexiglas or clear plastic to the frame. Begin by applying a generous amount of silicone sealant to the frame.

Then, carefully place the piece of plastic over the opening, making sure that it is flush with the frame. Once the sealant has dried, you can begin attaching the photovoltaic cells.

The cells should be placed in an evenly spaced grid, with each cell slightly overlapping its neighbors. Once all of the cells are in place, you can connect them using electrical tape or solder.

Attach the Photovoltaic Cells

Photovoltaic cells are what collect solar energy and convert it into electricity. They need to be attached to the frame in a way that will allow them to capture as much sunlight as possible.

Solder wire onto each cell, and then connect all of the wires. Be sure to leave enough wire at the end so that you can connect it to a power source later on.

Mount the Panel

Now that the panel is assembled, you’ll need to mount it in a location that will get plenty of sunlight. The ideal location would be south-facing and free from any shading throughout the day.

Once you’ve found the perfect spot, use screws or bolts to attach the panel to a surface.

Connect to a Power Source

The final step is to connect the solar panel to a power source. This can be done by connecting the wires from the panel to a battery or directly to an inverter.

If you’re connecting the panel to an inverter, you can then plug it into your home’s electrical system. And that’s it! You’ve now successfully built a solar panel.

Also, don’t forget to check out your local solar incentives.