Learn how to Build Solar Energy Systems

Many of us would like to build solar energy systems ourselves.

Some would like to save money by doing so, others just love the challenge.

Whatever your reason, you'll need some help. We've taken the first step for you and identified some great resources to help you build solar energy systems that you can be
proud of.

build solar energy systems graphic

Lets look at a few considerations to build solar energy systems first.

Determine whether you want to install a solar hot water system or one to generate electricity, or both.

What is your geographic orientation? Solar panels should be orientated to receive the maximum amount of daily and seasonal sunlight. In the Northern hemisphere solar panels should be facing due south. In the southern hemisphere - due north. A variance of 45° won’t make much of an impact on performance though.

Your roof orientation. Has your house got a roof facing the sun most of the day?

Look at your and your neighbour’s landscaping and surrounding buildings that might shade the panels.

What is the weather conditions in your area? The more sunny the better, but solar panels perform very well in cloudy conditions too.

What is the tilt of your roof? The optimal angle is equal to your latitude, although most panels are fixed to whatever angle the roof is tilting without impacting performance.

What amount of electricity do you need to power your load? The easiest way to determine your household’s use is to look at your electricity bills. It’s best to use an average of a full year.

Whether or not you decided to build solar energy systems, great savings can be had by just installing energy efficient appliances and implementing other energy saving measures.

Keep in mind that additional balance-of-system equipment will be required to transfer the generated electricity to the appliances in your house.

Always use a qualified professional to connect the electric components.

Below are 3 very useful books (one e-book and 2 from Amazon) that will help you to build solar energy systems.

Understanding and Installing Your Own Solar Electric System is a great resource! Backed by a 100% unconditional, 60 day, money-back guarantee.

To download a copy instantly for just $19.95, click the "buy it now" link just below. This will take you to a secure credit-card payment server operated by ClickBank. Once your payment is completed, you'll be instantly directed to the download page.
Buy it Now!

What other say ----

"In all, your book does a great job of explaining what things are called, how they work, and how to hook ‘em up…..and is nearly jargon-free, with any technical words thoroughly explained. I am also glad to see the strong emphasis put on using efficient appliances." Dan Fink

"I really thank you for this book. Forty-five minutes of reading and I got more information than after 2 weeks with Google searching for solar power basics." Sergey Reznik Colorado School of Mines - Golden, Co. sreznik@mines.edu

If you're looking to build solar energy systems, this book is a must.

Photovoltaics : Design and Installation Manual by SEI

Normally $59.95 - On special now for $40.77 SAVE 32%
To buy it now - Click on the "Buy from Amazon.com" button below.

It provides the critical information to successfully design, install and maintain PV systems. The book contains an overview of photovoltaic electricity and a detailed description of PV system components, including PV modules, batteries, controllers and inverters. It also includes chapters on sizing photovoltaic systems, analyzing sites and installing PV systems, as well as detailed appendices on PV system maintenance, troubleshooting and solar insolation data for over 300 sites around the world.

Used worldwide as the textbook in SEI's PV Design & Installation workshops, topics covered include:

The basics of solar electricity

PV applications and system components

Solar site analysis and mounting

Stand-alone and PV/generator hybrid system sizing

Utility-interactive PV systems

Component specification, system costs and economics

Case studies and safety issues

Not quite as detailed, but also worth your consideration is:

The Easy Guide to Solar Electric Part II, Installation Manual by Pieper Adi

Normally $19.95. On special now for $16.96 SAVE 15%
To buy it now - Click on the "Buy from Amazon.com" button below.

The Easy Guide to Solar Electric for Home Power Systems, Second Edition, has information on the practical aspects of installing a photovoltaic system. Written in accessible language, the book covers every detail of planning, designing, and installing a system, and also offers a critical look at the solar industry. Schematics and b&w photos are included.

Would you rather use a professional? Why not get a FREE Quote for your specific project, from a highly rated local, licensed contractors within 48 hours. No obligation.

For more solar energy information, including further references to how to build solar energy systems, check out our hand picked selection of solar energy books...

build solar energy systems - Top

Our Homepage