One of my biggest problems when I was building my very first solar panel was where to find solar cells at a reasonable price. I had recently learned that you could build a solar panel for hundreds of dollars less than buying them the only problem was I couldn't find any solar cells.
After I could days of searching I found a couple websites that sold solar cells... the only problem was they were in the /watt range which definitely isn't cheaper than buying a brand new panel! I was pretty depressed at that point.
\"Energy Efficiency\"
We had just recently built a wind generator and I had been wanting to upgrade the hub so I went to our favorite place (eBay) and was looking around for one. After I found what I was looking for I figured I should try a shot in the dark and see if anyone on eBay was selling solar cells. It was probably the happiest moment of my life! There were over 50 auctions of people selling solar cells for under .50/watt (the price has since gone down to under /watt). I quickly ordered 36 so I could start building our first solar panel. The great news is these guys usually throw in a couple extra just in case a couple break during shipping (solar cells are pretty fragile).
How is it that eBay was offering such cheap prices on cells? Well, cells have a grading system (Grade "A", "B", "C" etc.). The cells I had been looking at were Grade "A" cells which means they are perfect. The auctions on eBay were for Grade "B" cells. Before you start thinking these aren't that great you should know that Grade "B" simply means there's tiny defects in the cell. Nothing major and it doesn't affect the power output. Once your solar panel is built you can't even notice these defects.
If you're just starting your journey to building your first solar panel I strongly suggest you check out eBay. They've got the best prices and you can't even tell the difference when the panel is finished.
Building Solar Panels - Where To Buy Solar Cells
I built my own solar panels and a wind generator and saved well over ,000. I get a cheque from the power company because I produce more energy than I use. If you'd like to learn how you can do the same check out Buy Solar Cells.