Did you know that it's possible to build your own panel? In fact, not only is it possible, it's actually a fairly simple project to undertake and can be done with common, easy-to-find tools and materials. With concern growing worldwide about the increasing prices of fossil fuels (not to mention the environmental damage), more and more people are turning to alternatives such as solar power. What's more, many are opting for a DIY approach, and reaping the benefits.

Build your own panel

Probably the most common way for people to make the switch to solar power is to purchase a complete solar power generation system. There are many companies out there taking advantage of the trend toward solar power, building and installing solar panels for consumers around the world.

Solar panel kits are another popular option. In most cases, these kits contain the materials necessary to assemble a solar panel, leaving the assembly and installation to the user. This is an attractive choice for many consumers because it's usually much less expensive than paying for pre-made panels and their installation.

Perhaps the most intriguing option, though, is to build your own panel. This essentially involves finding and purchasing the materials that you would find in a solar panel kit, and then assembling them yourself.

You might be surprised by how easy it is to do this on your own. In terms of materials, the most important ones you'll need are solar cells. Pre-made cells come in monocrystalline and polycrystalline forms, with monocrystalline cells being a bit more expensive but a bit more efficient in the long run. You'll also need wiring and soldering materials, for connecting the cells together, and a cabinet for mounting the cells (plywood is great for this purpose). You may also need an inverter in order to convert the DC electricity produced by the panel to AC, which is used in the home. If you're not entirely sure as to how to design and build your own panel, don't worry. There are plenty of good solar panel [http://yourownsolarpanel.org/earth-4-energy-review] plans available online.

If you're really ambitious, you can even try putting together your own solar cells.

DIY solar panels - the advantages
• All the advantages of solar power: reduce your electricity bill and your carbon footprint at the same time
• Less expensive than buying pre-assembled solar panels and/or getting them installed
• Complete control over the capacity of your solar power system
• The satisfaction that comes with starting an important project and seeing it through yourself!
If you're thinking about making the switch away from non-renewable energy, you owe it to yourself to consider building your own solar panel.