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Components Needed to Build a Solar Panel or Solar Array

Are you considering solar energy for your home? But afraid that a professionally installed solar array will be beyond your budget, and a do it yourself project beyond your abilities?  Then this article was written for you. This breaks down the solar energy system into its individual parts and explains the function of each part. It isn't that hard to follow, and maybe it will convince you to try to build a solar panel yourself.

A solar energy system is also called a photovoltaic (PV) system and it begins with a single solar cell. The individual solar cells are connected together to form a solar panel.  Panels can be connected to form an array. If you plan to build several solar panels and connect them into array, you will need to add a few other items to your final solution. To make the most of your photovoltaic array, you will want to add some additional equipment such as an inverter, charge controller and rechargeable batteries. Here's a closer review of the individual components.

SOLAR CELL. The solar energy system begins with the solar cell. The material that the cell is made of is semi-conductive. Under conditions of sunlight, this semi conductive material can produce electricity. The most common material used for solar cells is silicon. Producing solar powered energy starts when light reaches the photovoltaic cell and is taken in by the silicon layer. Photovoltaic effect is the term used to refer to the process of absorbing light. Photovoltaic effect happens when electrons are jarred loose from their atoms and as a result create a current of electricity.

SOLAR PANEL. A panel is made up of around 36-40 solar cells that are attached to each other to generate more energy. It's good to remember when you build a solar panel that the number of solar cells and the quality of those cells will directly impact the amount of energy the panel can produce. 10 to 300 watts is about the range of output you can expect from a solar panel.

If you only build one solar panel,  you can actually stop right here.  But if you think you want to build multiple solar panels, you should read on because there are a few additional items you'll need to take full advantage of the energy you've produced.

SOLAR ARRAY. To attain the necessary level of generated electricity, several panels can be attached to form an array. The size of the array varies, and will be based on pre-established target production levels.

BATTERIES and CHARGE CONTROLLER. If you begin to grow your system beyond a single panel, you will need to optimize the system to make the most of the energy you collect. Retaining electricity in batteries that are rechargeable will provide the opportunity to make the most of the electricity your system has generated. To ensure battery safety from overcharging, you will need a charge controller to stop the current of electricity into the batteries once they reach capacity.

INVERTER. Essentially, an inverter translates DC electricity from the batteries to the AC electricity required by most appliances in your home.

These are the primary components of a residential solar system, although be aware that there will be some additional smaller items that you'll need. Hopefully this overview made it clear that a solar energy system does not have to be confusing, and has given you confidence that you can undertake a do it yourself project with success! Come visit our website at http://www.doityourselfenergysavings.com/components-of-a-solar-energy-system.php  for more information on how to build solar panels, wind turbines and other alternative energy tips and strategies.

About the Author

John Joseph is a long time do it yourself'er who is dedicated to helping others find affordable alternative energy solutions to every day living.  Learn more about Alternative Energy Solutions by visiting us at www.doityourselfenergysavings.com

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