DIY Green Solar Energy

Well, I think I’ve finally finished my home solar project. After doing a lot of reading, I believe I have an otherwise decent and safe system. I tried to design it around the NEC’s Article 690 as much as “practical”. I’ve added additional components, and changed a few things around. It’s been an enjoyable and worthwhile learning experience. I read “free” books on design, operation & maintenance, and safety, along with referencing the National Electrical Code in relation to PV systems. After playing with my new Grid Tie inverter, I’m convinced that it’s a good addition to any system that produces 500+ Watts of power. My system is not the best and my way is not the only way to implement a home system, but I hope my ideas helps someone along the way. For those that wish to truly learn about Stand-Alone PV system design etc, the following are excellent free books I downloaded and used: 1.) Stand-Alone Photovoltaic Systems – (by Sandia National Labs) 2.) Maintenance And Operation of Stand-Alone Photovoltaic Systems (Sandia) 3.) Working Safely with Photovoltaic Systems (Sandia National Labs) 4.) Photovoltaic Power Systems And the 2005 NEC: Suggested Practices Simply google the titles and download the pdf’s, and your good to go. Good Fortune, and have fun. Latest Diagram: dc112.4shared.com

Here I am showing the 2nd row of cells almost completed and the solder contacts.

Quick test showing the solar cells in action.

Just wanted to show the progress is my solar panel project. I received a new flux pen today so I spent some time soldering the cells together. So far so good. Edit: I purchased these cells off of ebay….