There are a lot of articles and web sites discussing ways to build your own solar panels and save infinite amounts of money while conserving the environment. We would like to encourage you to do your own analysis before giving anyone a dime. Here is some information that can help.

Let's just consider the question, How much money can I save if I build my own solar panel with a DIY solar panel kit? This depends on several factors. Here are a few to consider:

Does my state provide rebates or power buy back for solar installations?

The Federal Government will help you pay for solar panels installations. However, you will be required to provide a Manufacturer's Certification Statement that the product or component qualifies for the tax credit. There are also state credits available that differ by state and some even buy back energy. Look it up for your state but be aware – most of these also have a manufacturer certification requirement.

Do I have a south-facing roof line or un-obscured backyard space to place the collector?

For any useful solar panel installation, you will need several square meters of available space on your roof. One of the major costs of serious solar panel installations is the grid connect system. If you put a small amount of solar panels on your roof, you will never be able to pay for the grid connect system. So it all has to be adequately sized just to make sense to do it in the first place.

What would I like to power with my solar collector?

If you just want to impress the Jones' next door, you can set up a light bulb somewhere in your house and power it with a battery, charged by a single solar panel. Economically, this is a complete waste of money as you will never recover your expenses and it will not increase the value of your home. However if you want to actually reduce your total cost of power, you’re going to be putting up a significant investment in cash and time if you are a do-it-yourself type.

Is my location viable for solar power system that will pay for itself in reasonable time?

You can trust the NOAA maps sites or the NREL (National Renewable Energy Lab) web sites for information about how much solar energy you have in your area. Remember, this is also affected by trees, shade from the neighbors house and even the average amount of cloud cover your region receives annually.

Bottom line on DIY solar panels.  Do your homework before you spend a dime!