When buying solar panels for a DIY solar power project, the cost of your cells is just about the main consideration. You may needless to say you will still need batteries and an inverter regardless whether you decide to go DIY or off-the-shelf. If you have been investigating the idea, you will be aware the price per cell varies a good deal. The secret is, there are a lot cells available with different technologies and for that reason costs. These differences could affect the design and construction of one's panel. New technology panels might not be the best solution for any DIY project, simply due to the cost per cell v's effectiveness. Much will depend on your application. If you are searching for added turn on your farm, then a size your panels is less important compared to a town house, the location where the size and weight with the panels in your roof can be quite a big problem. If older technology cells really are a viable cost alternative, do it now.
SolcellepanelerIs how the easy compare value of solar cells is always to compare the dollar/watt ratio. So, just how much would you purchase cells? Well, on a quick internet search we located the most popular form of cells (0.5V, 80x150mm) opting for $290 for 100 cells ie $1.45/Watt. With those, you could have built THREE, 60W panels, using a combined total output of 36V or 180W. We've even seen "off-spec" blemished cells choosing $0.60 per/Watt. While these is not going to perform to top specifications, they may be worthwhile considering. Ensure you really view the downsides and possess good technical instructions and talk to the supplier before using such cells.
Another alternative is utilizing scrap cells. Scrap cells are those broken during manufacturing, and so are often sold for inexpensive prices. You save serious dollars with scrap cells, but be ready for a lot more work and frustration in constructing your panels. You will have to solder or use conductive epoxy for connections and fiddle, but, you are able to build inexpensive panels.
Buying second hand cells can be quite a blessing or even a problem. Cells come with an effective lifetime of about 20-25 a number of their efficiency falls over their working life. Which means that a cell that has been operational for Four or five years is about 25% though its usable lifespan. Before you think about secondhand cells, be sure your dollar/watt and lifespan can be worth the outlay.
If you're not into DIY, then look for a whole panel. We found 60W panels "on special" for $180 (2.95/Watt). Sometimes they are sold with minimum orders of more than one unit, so be mindful when placing any order. Enjoy your solar project.