How to Find Used Solar Cells for Your Homemade Power System

Assembling the items you need to build your solar energy generator is one of the first things you do when starting a project, after you have read the do-it-yourself guide. So you start putting your shopping list together and find out that solar cells can be costly if you buy them new – no worries, with the right information you can find used solar cells. So keep reading and learn where to find those used solar cells that won’t cause pain in your wallet.

For many years now the first place anyone looks when they want to buy something cheap is EBay. Solar cells are also available on EBay and other online auctions. When you find them on auction sites you will usually find them sold in bunches, not singles. I find EBay is usually the cheapest pace for getting the parts for making a homemade power system.

Before you bid on the solar cells, read the details provided. Don’t bid a “new” price on a “used” item; also, if the solar cells are transparent you can expect to pay more. If you are bidding on a lot that says cracked or chipped used solar cells – don’t overpay and don’t despair, you can repair the chips and cracks. Email the auctioneer if you have any doubts about what you are bidding on.

A quick word on cracked or chipped solar cells; you should be able to get a very good deal on a lot of them. You will have to take the time to fix them but in the end the savings are worth it. Just make sure you know what you are paying for, the devil’s in the details as they say.

Now it’s time to visit your local solar energy installer. Ask around and find out who most of your community uses. Particularly if you noticed someone getting new ones installed. Go to the installer and ask him how he disposes of the used solar panels. Ask if you can have them. They will probably give them to you to keep from hauling them off. You can salvage the used solar cells and repair those that need it – you might get lucky and salvage some panels.

The installer might not have any at the moment, that’s okay. Leave him your name and number and ask him to call you when he does. Check back on occasion so they don’t forget you.

While you’re out checking with installers find out where your county road maintenance office is. That is your next stop.

It will be much better is your visit in person, as you’ll get much more achieved this way. Ask what they do with the old road warning signs that are solar powered. Ask if you can have them to recycle the parts – they will more than likely be happy to help.

Lastly, research retailers of solar cells and get some contact information. Explain that you are looking for damage or used solar cells. Offer to buy any that they have had to take back due to cracks or bad packing causing damage. They will probably be happy to give them to you for nothing more than shipping costs.

It might take a little research and looking around to find used solar cells, but it is doable. And what can be more rewarding than making your own solar energy generator with solar cells you paid next to nothing for?

If you are seriously considering building your own solar power system then check out this Earth4Energy review which explains step-by-step (with videos and manuals) how repair damaged solar cells and build your own solar energy system for under $200.

Further resources on Solar Energy Systems can be found here: Solar Power Systems.