PV Gap

Terrance Said:

how hard is it to make your own solar panels?

We Answered:

There are numerous ways to make one, each one has it's pros, and cons, as well as amount of electricity it will produce. Here's an example how to build a simple solar panel.
http://www.ehow.com/how_2056821_make-sol…

Peggy Said:

can some tell me where to download how to make your own solar panels plzplz?

We Answered:

You can go to any torrent search site, such as Torrentscan, and enter the search term "solar". I'm sure something will come up.

Unfortunately, I doubt the plans will be workable. But you can judge. At least you won't have paid money for impractical plans.

Christian Said:

making your own and installing solar panels. Bull s*** or not?

We Answered:

If you're in Hawaii, number one, be sure to get a solar water heater. Guaranteed fast payback.

Now about those kits. Avoid the kind that says you can make your own panels for under $200. Those are scams. If you're in C&C of Honolulu, you will not be allowed to connect that kind of panel to your house - it doesn't meet National Electrical Code because it doesn't have a safety rating like UL.

There are kits for grid-tied solar that run from $6000 on up. That's the kind that can actually save you money. I don't know whether you are allowed to install it yourself, though. In California, you can, as long as you get the inspection, same as any other building project.

In spite of being further south, Honolulu gets about the same amount of sun as we do in San Jose, California. That's because our area is dry, and you have more clouds and rain during an average year. If you're in one of the wet valleys like Manoa or Palolo, obviously the situation would only be worse. But your electric rates are high, so you have a good chance of making your money back.

Very few sites are really good for wind turbines. You cannot just put it on your roof in the city - it needs to up high, where the wind is strong and steady. That's why you see turbine mounted on towers. Also, because it has moving parts, it's going to wear out. Finally, you know how cars rust out quickly there compared to the mainland? Same thing with a wind turbine.

Jesus Said:

Would you be interested in saving money & helping the environment by making & installing your own solar panels?

We Answered:

We already have solar panels, and are already saving money.

I would caution you against internet schemes that suggest you can save huge amounts of money by making your own panels, though. Those are borderline, if not outright, scams. If it were practical or even possible, wouldn't there be at least a few people doing it in your neighborhood?

http://www.nlcpr.com/Deceptions6.php is a good thing to check before buying diy solar e-books.