It you are keen to create your own Solar Energy House you may well have considered DIY solar panels. Well, while I applaud your desire to have a solar energy house, let me warn you that you will not save money by making your own solar panels. Lets look at why.
Cost of a DIY Solar Panel Lets ignore the cost of your time. Here is a list of the materials required: - Clear plexiglass or low iron solar glass 2ft x 4ft x 1/4in $34 or more - 3/4in 2ft x 4ft plywood panel $23 - Solar cell kit (eBay) $119, comprising: - 50 Solar cells each 3in x 6in, 1.75w, pre-tabbed - 10ft tabbing wire and 10ft bus wire, - Flux pen and solder - Peg board 2 panels 2ft x 2ft $5 - Clear silicone caulk/sealant $3 - Junction box $5 - Paint, stainless screws, wood for frame $10 - Diodes $3 Total cost $202. Take off $20 for the 10 extra solar cells that are not required, gives a total of $182 for the materials to make a 60 watt solar panel. This works out at $3 per watt. Cost of Factory Made Panels If you do a casual search on the Internet, most solar panels work out at $5 - $7.50 per watt. But we ferreted around and found a 120watt panel for $358 retail, equivalent to $2.98 per watt. There are also a number of wholesalers willing to sell direct to the public, and minimum order quantities can be as low as two panels. We found a 225watt solar panel wholesale for $549 (min order 2 panels), equivalent to $2.44 per watt. If you need any kind of information on this article related topic click here: Solar Lafayette
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