Let’s get started with DIY Solar Panel Phase II. Because there is no “one size fits all” method, the best can be done is provide information possibly useful for your purposes. For us the plan is to power a travel trailer and we’re not talking a fold up tent type trailer. We’ll seriously be on the hunt come spring. The project will start with one panel charging a small battery bank. System expansion will occur as budget allows (disability income can be a bit restrictive) until all is powered by solar. That is with the exception of air conditioner and water heater if electric. Panels and peripherals will be designed for quick and simple removal from the trailer to transport and use as needed.
The panel in use on the back yard storage shed measures 20 X 40 inches, produces a maximum of 63 watts and was completed mostly on the kitchen table. The next panels will measure 30 X 60 inches and produce a maximum of 144 watts. The kitchen table won’t work with the larger panels for a couple of reasons: FIRST is “she who must be obeyed” and she ain’t going for that again. SECOND is with 30 X 60 inch panels the kitchen table ain’t gonna fit. Considering there will be more than one panel built, a dedicated surface for securing different jigs to speed production seems a good plan. Garage cleaning is calling (arghhh).
Once garage cleaning gives sufficient space for the project it’s full steam ahead. I’ll start with one panel (the money thing gets in the way once again). Wild axed guessing tells me day to day needs will require four to six panels to keep a travel trailer battery bank rockin’ n rollin’. So even though one panel won’t do for the trailer it is both a start and good to have in case of an emergency situation. Having an electric source (even if limited) versus sitting in the dark with no electric seems a no brainer and in the meantime it is one step closer to the goal.
Peripherals include a battery bank, charge controller(s) and DC to AC inverter(s). Depending on your purposes the battery bank can be little as one battery or many as you can justify. Charge controllers come in a wide variety whether off the shelf or DIY. For starters I plan to build a simple charge controller capable of handling 20 Amps. It should work well with up to two panels. If you have no electronics hobby experience you will be ahead of the game buying an off the shelf unit. When it comes to DC to AC inverters, they can be DIY projects but there is generally no advantage and may actually be more expensive than commercially available units. Due diligence researching charge controllers and inverters is recommended. Give careful consideration to the cost of buying ready to use units versus component costs and personal time invested building your own. You may well conclude the only thing gained by doing it yourself is the pride of successful accomplishment.
Next post will include some nitty gritty basics of the panel design planned for this project. Small details regarding materials and dimensions can have an effect on per panel cost. This post is way over 500 words already, so stay tuned for the next installment.
