Using Low Cost Used Solar Cells to Power Your Home

March 20th, 2009 by Steve Evans

Assembling the items you need to build your solar energy generator is one of the first things you do when starting a project, after you have read the do-it-yourself guide. So you start putting your shopping list together and find out that solar cells can be costly if you buy them new – no worries, with the right information you can find used solar cells. So keep reading and learn where to find those used solar cells that won’t cause pain in your wallet.

For many years now the first place anyone looks when they want to buy something cheap is EBay. Solar cells are also available on EBay and other online auctions. When you find them on auction sites you will usually find them sold in bunches, not singles. I find EBay is usually the cheapest pace for getting the parts for making a homemade power system.

Before you bid on the solar cells, read the details provided. Don’t bid a “new” price on a “used” item; also, if the solar cells are transparent you can expect to pay more. If you are bidding on a lot that says cracked or chipped used solar cells – don’t overpay and don’t despair, you can repair the chips and cracks. Email the auctioneer if you have any doubts about what you are bidding on.

Solar cells with cracks and chips can be used. The repairs aren’t difficult and it is worth the difference in the price. Also check to see if they are transparent. Transparent solar cells typically sell for more. It pays to read all of the information presented with the auction.

After browsing the online auctions, find out who installs solar energy in your town. Go visit them and ask them what they do with panels that are removed during upgrades or repairs. Most of the time they toss them out, their trash is your treasure. Offer to take them off their hands. You can salvage the used solar cells out of the old panels or luck up and be getting some panels you can repair.

The installer might not have any at the time you call or visit, but leave your name and number and ask them to call you. Check back on occasion so they don’t forget you.

While you’re out checking with installers find out where your local road maintenance depot is, as this is another place to get used solar panels from.

It will be much better is your visit in person, as you’ll get much more achieved this way. Ask what they do with the old road warning signs that are solar powered. Ask if you can have them to recycle the parts – they will more than likely be happy to help.

Lastly, research retailers of solar cells and get some contact information. Explain that you are looking for damage or used solar cells. Offer to buy any that they have had to take back due to cracks or bad packing causing damage. They will probably be happy to give them to you for nothing more than shipping costs.

Taking the time to make repairs to cracked and used solar cells and doing some legwork to find those solar cells can add up to substantial savings for your solar energy generator project. Keep your eyes open for that steal of a deal and happy hunting.

I have actually built my very first solar power system using the excellent Earth 4 Energy renewable energy guides and videos. I recommend you checkout this independent Earth4Energy review for further details.

Further resources on Solar Power Systems can be found here: Solar Power Systems.