There are ten different components that make up a solar powered generating system. Of course you don’t have to use all them. You can pick and choose depending on what type of system you want to end up with.

Just to emphasize that point. Remember you can start with a simple system and then add to it over time, as and when your experience and knowledge increases.

Solar Cells

These solar panels face the sun and convert the suns energy into power. It converts it into DC electricity. Go crazy and build loads of solar panels because you can connect an unlimited amount together. Follow this link find out more about how to build a solar panel.

You connect all the panels together so they are inline. A bit like having a string of fairy lights, and the light bulbs are the solar panels. The more panels you have, the more energy you produce.

DC (Direct Current) Disconnect

You want you solar panels connected to a Direct Current (DC) disconnect. You do not want to undertake any maintenance on your system while there is electricity flowing through it. The DC disconnect switches of the power generated by your solar panels.

Charge Controller

If you are using a battery bank to store any unused electricity then I strongly suggest you fit a charge controller to your system. This prevents your batteries from becoming over charged, which can damage them.

Battery Bank

Learn about the various types of batteries that are available. The type you need is deep cycle. These batteries are often used in forklift vehicles. Do not use car batteries.

Keep the batteries warm, that way they work better. If you don’t have room in the house for them, make them a shelter outside, never leave them exposed. The other thing you might want to think about is getting a battery box. They are great for protection and keeping batteries warm.

Solar System Meter

A system meter is very useful for telling you how much electricity you are using and how much power is left in your batteries. If you don’t have one you do not know if you are producing enough electricity or not.

Main Supply Direct Current (DC) Disconnect

You only need this if you have a battery backup as it turns of the electricity from them. You design the system so that it sits between your batteries and the AC DC inverter. Like the solar panel disconnect, it is very handy for when you are carrying out maintenance on your system.

DC To AC Inverter

Both the battery bank and the solar cells generate a direct current. What we have to do is convert this DC current into an AC current. This is the job of the inverter to convert direct current to an alternating current.

Petrol Generator

There are various types of electric generators to choose from. If you live in a house that does not have an electric utility supplier then this is a good option to add to your system. A backup generator does not only secure your energy supply should something go wrong, it can also recharge your batteries during cloudy days or at night.

AC Breaker Panel

If you have a utility supplier, you will have a AC breaker panel. This is where the electricity from the national grid enters your home. Although all houses have them, only the electric company is allowed to wire them up. So you need to book an appointment for your utility supplier to wire it up to your solar panels.

Don’t be tempted to do it yourself, it is a criminal offence for unqualified people to touch these panels, and you want it to be done correctly..

KW per Hour Meter

As with the breaker panel, you will also have a KWH meter. This what the electricity company uses to record how much electricity you have used.

Video on Different Aspects Of Building Your Own Solar Panel

Learning to build a solar panel is the first step. The second step is to design a system that will work in your home. Go to build a solar panel and learn all you need to know about building the right system for your house.