Home built solar panels-Should I really build them myself?

Aug. 26, 2010 - PRLog -- Today everybody is feeling the pinch, rising energy costs are a huge concern.  Many people are turning to sources of alternative energy. Phrases like “home built solar panels”, “DIY wind turbines”, and “biofuel” have become commonplace and dominate web stops like Google and YouTube. It's readily apparent that people are interested in conserving energy and money.
One of the most popular ways of saving is a Solar Generator, that's a fancy way of saving solar panels; a solar generator is simply home built solar panels along with the necessary parts and components required for integration into your application. Common applications include boats, cabins, and of course your home.
Ok, so you're ready to start using solar energy to save on fuel costs. Should I buy or use home built solar panels? Well that's the twenty thousand dollar question, literally! Professionally installed solar generators can easily cost upwards of $20,000 making your return on investment hard to quantify. On a basic parts cost basis it's easy to see why so many are turning to home built solar panels. “But, can I really build them myself? I don't know anything about solar generators”; you may be thinking.
There is a lot of free information out there on the topic of home built solar panels. Most of it resembles an 8th grade science fair or a fun family project.  That's great and informative, but lacks the professionalism required for real Do-It-Yourself results. Luckily, the flood of interest worldwide has brought out the entrepreneurs. Many smart small companies are producing complete training packages designed for the home owner. Several of these programs exist and there are good ones and bad ones. Like any market the good ones will always rise to the top. The best packages are offering video, step by step instructions, and support.
   Most of the better courses out there are very easy to follow and quite informative. They offer complete drawings and schematics, while keeping everything simple enough to follow along with. You really can make home built solar panels with the fit and finish of a commercially available solar panel. By taking your time and using some common sense you can build a professional quality solar generator yourself! Check out http://www.get-offthegrid.com and get yourself a quality DIY program and sign up for the extra support, it costs a fraction more up front; but then you can ask all the questions you want.
   Let me leave you with is thought. If you’ve got lots of money and no time; buy your solar generator. Have it maintained by a professional, and sit back knowing that you are doing your part. If you’re a regular guy or gal who works hard and has a budget, do it yourself. This will be one of the most rewarding things you ever accomplish. Several outstanding courses are available at  http://www.get-offthegrid.com pick one up and start on it today. A few months from now it will have paid for it’s self.

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About Dave Iago: Dave Iago is a Mechanical Design Engineer by trade and part time author. Dave is a Green Living activist and operates www.get-offthegrid.com , a website devoted to providing Do-It-Yourself'ers a complete resource for alternitive energy training.