Gathering Supplies to Make Your Own Solar Panel

The tools you need to build a solar panel depend on the type container that will hold it. Many people choose to work with wood. In this case, you'll need a saw, screwdriver, drill, wood glue and silicon caulk in addition to the wood itself. Plywood is acceptable for the back of the panel and 3/4-inch square wood works best for the sides.

You also may need wire cutters, wire strippers, a soldering iron and some solder. These tools are used to wire each solar cell to the other and to solder tabs to each solar cell that keep them properly attached.

Decide what kind of solar cells to buy. The standard size of one cell is 3 inches by 6 inches, each generating about 0.5 volts and 3.5 amps. Most panels are built to generate 18 volts, which can power medium-sized appliances, TVs, even guitar amps. While it is not enough power to run two standard appliances simultaneously, it can be linked to other panels to provide more power. For a similar output, you'll need 36 cells for each panel. You can find these cells online at eBay and Amazon. Consider buying pretabbed cells, which help minimize the number of steps required to make a solar panel.

Find a material to cover your solar cells. It needs to be something clear that doesn't conduct electricity, like Plexiglas or Lexan.

Once you have all of these solar panel supplies, find a resource to guide you through the assembly process. You can find these guides online (See Resource 2) or you can buy a book on the subject. Now you are ready to make your own solar panel. (See References 1 and 2.)