Make a Simple Solar Power Generator

August 30, 2010 by SolarInfo
Filed under Home Improvement

Adam W asked:

Whether power is cut off or just outside the power grid, nothing will stop you from generating your own renewable energy with a solar power generator. It is easy to do it yourself, and all you need are simple materials which are readily available in local stores. Equip yourself with the following materials:

- a 12 or 16 volt small solar panel
- a 12 volt lead/acid or gel battery
- a battery box
- a 12 volt DC meter
- a triple inlet model DC input
- a 115 volt 140 watt inverter (an option you need if you prefer to run AC appliances)

Attach the DC input and the meter at the top of the box with a drill. Using an insulated wire, fasten the meter to the wing-nut terminals of the battery connecting the negative (-) pole first. To be safe handle one wire at a time. In the same way, connect the DC inlet to the battery then the solar panel to the battery. Close the lid and keep it tight with a bungee cord. After you finish these steps, expose the solar panel in the sun for 5-8 hours to charge a dead battery or 1-3 hours to top off a weak battery.

This solar power generator is able to power up fans, radios and lights with small wattage all night or allows usage for continuous 5 hours at 115 volt AC equivalent to 1 hour boiling water. This system can even be connected to larger panels, batteries and inverters. With the advent of high efficiency photovoltaic cells, like those able to convert as much as 42% energy, you can design much more powerful solar power generators in the future.

solar power