How to Build Solar Panels With Plans

Buy the photovoltaic cells. If possible, buy the tabbed cells to minimize the amount of soldering that will be required. The number of cells will depend on the power that you require and, for instance, 12 cells will produce 12 volts. Most solar panels use 32 to 36 individual solar cells and the higher voltage that 36 cells provide will compensate for a lot of cloudy weather.

Place the cells face down on the plastic or glass surface so that the side with the lines faces the sun. They should be wired in series if you are looking to maximize voltage and in parallel if you want to maximize current.

Connect the cells in the right sequence of positive and negative. This can be ensured by connecting the tab at the bottom of one cell to the top of the next or from the top to the bottom.

Solder the cells together in series. Pull back the tab partly, apply solder and use the popsicle stick to glue the bottom of the cell to the tab. When you are finished, there should be tabs sticking out from the first and last cell in the series.

Apply silicone glue to the backs of the cells and press down on the frame till the cells are glued to the frame. Turn the frame over and remove the plastic or glass cover.

Solder a wire connecting the negative tabs on one side and attach a black wire. Do the same with the positive tabs on the other side using the red wire.

Attach the diode if your panel is going to produce more than 24 volts. This prevents current from flowing back in the panel when the sun is down.