Re: [pvusers] hello! i have a question!

["Dan Metcalf" <dan@metcalfs.com>]

Eve,

Most of these build it yourself solar cell plans are based on the copper
oxide photocell, which is only about 1-2% efficient if built correctly.
Great for hobby or educational information, but really poor compared to the
12-17% efficiency of commercially manufactured models.  Take a look at
http://www.lindsaybks.com/bks3/solar/ you can use a check or money order to
get publications from them.

You can also look at stuff like this one
http://www.fuellesspower.com/solar_cells.htm which claims to be more
efficient, and probably something like a multi-crystal panel.

Those sources aside, your next problem, and the biggest problem that the
manufacturers faced in early production was a way to protect the cells.
They need to be sandwiched or sealed within something that will let ample
light through, yet never let moisture or airflow to come in contact with the
cells.  As I understand it many of these do it yourself cells (especially
the copper oxide) would seriously degrade through corrosion if there was any
direct enviromental contact.

I would recommend that you look into used panels.  Someone is always wanting
to upgrade to a larger system, and would like to unload some lower wattage
panels that would be better than anything most of us could build.  The great
thing about solar panels is you don't have to buy all of them at once
either, buy as needed or finances can afford.  Take a look at
http://www.homepower.com and under the magazine - files & download you can
download the whole magazine.  Take a look at the microads in the back -
sometimes there are some good used equipment deals there.

Good luck on your search!

Dan Metcalf
dan@metcalfs.com
http://www.metcalfs.com
The Sun!  Your source of energy for 5 billion years!
  Free while supplies last!


----- Original Message -----
From: "eve hollar" <lady_macgyver@hotmail.com>
To: <pvusers@crest.org>
Sent: Thursday, July 18, 2002 11:28 PM
Subject: [pvusers] hello! i have a question!


>     i just found this group..and GLAD i am to have found it!
>       my question...do ANY of you know where, via the library or net ,
that
> i can find plans to build solar/photovoltaic cells. might be cheaper to
buy
> them pre made...but i want to know how to make them just for my personal
> knowledge...and it may turn out cheaper to build my own! every place i go
on
> the net...it costs at the least  $6 or more...as i don't own a CC...this
> isn't possible.
>
>    your help would be GREATLY appreciated!!
>
> (my goal ...5-10 yrs from now, is a home as much "off the grid" as humanly
> possible...)
>
>    thank you for your time!!
>       sincerely,
>           Eve
>
>
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