It seems that everyone cites either technological or financial considerations as the main reasons we aren't generally installing solar power systems. Although technological considerations should be considered they are in fact the least of our worries. Over the years solar technology has advanced that much even countries with very little average sunlight are committed to the idea - Denmark is a case in point.
Financial considerations tend to be measured in terms of payback. And, although it's true an off the shelf system can take many years before costs are recuperated, the idea of DIY solar to build your own solar power system in the main lays this problem to rest.
Side stepping these problems has allowed many people to attempt DIY solar power system installation. A great step forward for our environment but not without a whole set of new problems to consider!
If you believe all the sales hype on how you build your own Solar power system you would think there were practically no costs involved. But beware! Having read a number of these documents it seems that some of the more expensive items you might require are picked up at what amounts to car boot sales or begging off your local factory owner!
Ok, we are still in the early stages of this DIY solar boom so the ideas to acquire solar system parts may still be valid. Even so, it would still be wise to consider the true financial cost of sourcing all the required parts before setting out to build your own solar power system. In addition, don't overlook expenses arising from installation both in terms of tools and where the DIY solar equipment will be located.
There are different solar panel technologies, some more efficient than others. The selected technology and energy requirements will determine the size of solar panel needed and therefore the most suitable placement for it.
More often than not people consider installing solar panels on the roof of their home. However, there are a few things to think about before you do this. Firstly, you may require some sort of planning permission before you start your project. You might find your solar panel aesthetically pleasing but I wouldn't count on your neighbours thinking the same. Also, consider that the solar panel has to be cleaned from time to time. In a country where snow falls frequently this could be a headache.
Before you install your own solar system consider where you will house your batteries and other equipment (DC to AC inverter etc) as there are safety issues to respect - especially when you have children in the house.
Because batteries work better at warmer temperatures you may need to make an additional investment in a battery box. If you locate batteries in a colder environment you will require greater battery capacity to compensate for the power loss.
These are just a few considerations you will have to make before setting out to build your own solar power system. Although DIY solar can be up to 10 times less costly than off the shelf solutions it's wise to get an idea about the type of problems you may encounter before starting your solar project.
Autor: Stuart Gardiner
Please visit my Eco Friendly Warrior Blog for more information related to alternative energy and environmental issues. Go to DIY Solar for Energy Saving for more practical information about Solar energy.
Added: January 2, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/
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