10 Reasons to Build Your Own Solar Panel

Many hobbyists will urge you to build your own solar panel if you asked them for any advice. I have often wondered why they feel so strongly about building a homemade panel. So I compiled several reasons that moved them to spend their weekends to build a DIY solar panel for their home.

A few of the following points might resonate with you. I hope that if you are on the verge of building your own solar panel but are somehow holding back, these may be sufficient to tip you over the edge to start you into your first project.

Reason #1: It is a lot cheaper to build your own solar energy generator than buying a comparable retail model.

Reason #2: You only have to commit less than a week -- most take a full weekend -- to build a solar energy system. It is also easy to complete your project when you follow a proven plan.

Reason #3: You will have an adrenaline rush when starting something this new adventure and will feel the satisfaction of making something interesting (and useful) with your own hands.

And as you see your solar panels power up your gadgets and appliances into life, you'll be filled with excitement.

Reason #4: The solar panel system keeps giving back to you financially after it is installed. It also does not require much maintenance other than spraying the glass surface with some water occasionally to wash off the dirt and dust.

Reason #5: When you reduce your carbon footprints, you are giving back to Mother Earth. This is certainly an environmental friendly thing to do!

Reason #6: It arouses the kids' curiosity and brings the whole family together -- even your "technophobic" wife -- to learn about renewable energy.

Reason #7: It takes only (an estimate of) less than 2 years for your DIY solar panels to return what they cost you. This is much shorter than an average of 15 years for a commercial-grade solar.

Reason #8: Making your own solar panel forces you get out into the sun and get your least-exercised muscles moving again.

Reason #9: It reinforces your belief in your own ability to complete whatever tasks you begin.

Reason #10: A homemade solar panel can be a good ice-breaker whenever there are new visitors to your house. It makes you look interesting as few people on earth can be as unique as DIY solar panel hobbyists.

Perhaps the collective effect of these reasons make you feel like building your own solar panel right now. I certainly hope so, because the cost of building a DIY solar panel is so low.

Even if your project fails, it can be a very educational experience for you. At least you can look back with a smile knowing that your life is enriched with an interesting experience you can't get anywhere else.