Save Money: Make A Solar Panel

The resources to make a solar panel have become readily available, but is this your best option?

Here are some Pros and Cons of DIY solar panels and factory made systems.

Pros - DIY Solar Panels

• Cost: Less than $200 per panel.
  
• Capacity: Equals purchased panels.
  
• Pride: Sense of accomplishment.  
• Controlled Growth: System can be built over time.
  
• Wilderness: Provide remote power for a cabin.    
  
• Contract: Hire someone to build the panels for you. 

Cons - DIY Solar Panels

• Effort: You must build the panels.
  
• Warranty: You are the manufacturer, no warranty.
  
• Time: To produce a large system, you must be patient, because it will take a little time to build 40 or 50 panels. 

Pros - Factory Made System

• Warranty:    A factory made system can have as much as 25 years warranty.
• Quick Installation:   System can be installed in one week and you will be making electricity.
• Hands Off: You do not have to touch anything.

Cons - Factory Made Systems

• Cost: High initial investment. The net cost after tax credits is a lot more reasonable, but the up front cost is high. This is the ONLY con I see with solar energy. I wish everyone could use it.

Here are some more guidelines to help you make an informed decision.

1. Capacity - The more power you want to produce means more panels you must make. You can make one per week, one per month or you can buy a ready made system and have it installed. Either system will produce the capacity you want, just consider the work involved.

2. Lifespan - Photovoltaic solar sytems can be purchased with a 25 year warranty. DIY solar panels can be built of long lasting durable materials but they do not have any manufacturer warranty, because you are the manufacturer.

3. Tax Credits - A professionally installed factory made system is eligible for Federal and State tax credits. Home made solar panels may not qualify for these credits. Tax credits lower the net cost of factory installed systems.

4. Cost - How much will it cost to install a photovoltaic solar system on my home or business? This solar calculator will tell you the cost of a factory installed system, ROI (return on investment), and how long it will take for the system to pay for itself.

How do I use these guidelines?

A DIY solar panel will produce electricity just like the factory made ones. The factory assembles the cells just the same as you will.
Much of the deciding factor involves investment cost. Many people do not have $25,000 to invest up front, but they love solar energy, so making a solar panel system is the only option for them. Those who can afford the initial investment of a factory made system and do not have a DIY attitude should take advantage of the benefits solar power has to offer through a professionally installed sytem.