Homemade Solar Panels Pros and Cons
Currently, most people are opting for homemade solar panels. There are various reasons why you may choose to make a solar panel rather than purchase one. For instance, some people think that it’s expensive to buy a solar system. On the other hand, other people consider making homemade solar panels because they’re eager to learn something new and reduce the rate of pollution. Based on research, homemade solar panels are categorized as green energy. In addition, you’ll find that some individuals are going solar because it’s cost-effective. Some of the things that’ll you’ll need to build a DIY solar panel include silicon solar cells, glass sheet, bus wire, standard 12V wire, and a metal frame. Below are homemade solar panels pros and cons:
PROS OF HOMEMADE SOLAR PANELS
1. Reduced Carbon Footprint
Solar energy is a renewable source of energy; therefore, you won’t worry about the emission of greenhouse gasses, such as carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide. Currently, there are numerous non-renewable sources of energy that emit poisonous gasses. Some of these pollutants will affect animals, plants, and human beings. For instance, greenhouse gasses cause global warming and climate change. Homemade solar panels play a significant role in improving biodiversity.
2. Reduces Electrical Bills
DIY solar panels are cost-effective. Lately, energy bills have been increasing rapidly due to inflation. Therefore, building your own solar power system will improve your financial security. In the long run, a homemade solar panel will help you save money. You can use the money to invest in other lucrative ventures or improve the quality of your life.
3. Energy Independence
Unlike natural gas and coal, the sun is a great source of energy. The electrical energy output of a homemade solar panel depends on various aspects, such as sunlight exposure and installation. Using DIY solar panels allows you to reduce your dependency on fossil fuels and foreign oil. Solar energy enables you to have predictable monthly energy bills.
4. Homemade Solar Panels Are Cheap
Making your own solar panel can be quite cheap, especially if you have more knowledge about the solar energy industry. Acquire the necessary tools and equipment. In addition, there are aspects that you should consider when buying DIY solar panel necessities, including the quality of the raw materials and functionality. In addition, buying an already made solar panel is quite expensive because a firm quotes a price that’ll cover operational costs and increase revenue.
5. Versatility
You can use homemade solar panels for various purposes. For instance, you can use a solar panel in your home, rural area, and garden, especially if you need low-cost irrigation techniques. Small homemade solar panels are portable; therefore, you can use them on your recreational vehicle (RV). In addition, DIY solar is ideal for smaller, off-grid projects. If you’re looking to power a boat or shed, the homemade solar panel is the best deal.
6. Return on Investment
Excess solar power can be sold to the grid. A powerful homemade solar panel can give you an opportunity to provide your local community with green energy for extra cash. The government can offer tariffs for individuals who produce excess solar energy. Making a solar panel have a high upfront investment cost, but in the long run, you’ll save more than you anticipated. Saving energy bills will help you cover the maintenance cost of your homemade solar panel.
7. DIY Satisfaction
If you’re looking for a challenging DIY project, then consider making a solar panel. Some of the skills that you’ll need in the process of making a solar panel include financial planning, even tax accounting, proficiency with power tools, negotiating skills, etc. There are various stages of solar panel making and installing, including monitoring, researching, electric wiring, permitting, shopping, planning, etc. A DIY solar panel is an accomplishment that makes you have a sense of pride.
CONS OF HOMEMADE SOLAR PANELS
1. Solar Energy Storage is Costly
Batteries and other modes of storing excess solar energy can be quite expensive. Therefore, most homeowners will consider utilizing energy during the day to manage power.
2. Homemade Solar Energy can be Irregular
DIY solar panels aren’t exposed to sunlight for 24-hours a day. Therefore, during the winter and rainy seasons, you’ll experience inconsistent solar energy. This is because your solar panel system won’t be exposed to sufficient sunlight.
3. Increased Margin for Error
Coming up with a homemade solar panel is a complex process that requires certain skills and adequate experience in this industry. If you’re a beginner, you’ll be prone to mistakes that can cause the solar system to malfunction. Inaccuracy can lower the efficiency of your system and increase maintenance costs.
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4. Large Upfront Costs
Acquiring raw materials for solar panels and buying installation tools and equipment is quite expensive. Currently, there are high-tech tools in the market that requires professionalism. You won’t use some of these tools in future; therefore, you’ll incur some losses in the future. In addition, you’ll waste too much time in the process of making a functioning solar panel. Instead of wasting your resources and time, consider buying an already made solar panel. Then, use your time well to improve your productivity in other fields that suit your qualifications.
5. Lower Energy Conversion Rate
Statistically, a well-functioning solar panel will convert at most 25% of the sun’s light into energy. A homemade solar panel will convert low energy because of various reasons. For instance, the compatibility of the components of the solar panel will affect its functioning ability. In addition, you might commit some mistakes that might affect your system’s efficiency. You should use top-notch components to make a DIY solar panel.
6. Disposal of a Homemade Panel can be Harmful to the Environment
Old solar panels should be disposed of properly. The preferable way of disposing of malfunctioning old solar panels is to melt down the system. This process isn’t suitable because it produces harmful chemicals that can impact biodiversity through pollution.
Conclusion
A homemade solar panel system is an expensive investment. Therefore, you should conduct thorough research before making a solar panel.