Solar Manufacturer Profiles

As the price of oil rises and economies slow, do-it-yourself movements become very popular. Solar is no exception. Companies that allow people the option to make a small solar panel or PV system from kits or published designs will do very well among the small, but dedicated and growing segment of solar DIY enthusiasts.

In the early days of the first oil crisis in the 1970s, people all over the world learned how to make a solar oven or how to make solar cells because they were very expensive to purchase from the manufacturer. Since then, the price has come down dramatically, but the technology remains out of reach for many people who could use it the most.

Perhaps today more than ever, the most useful projects for much of the less developed nations of the world have been those teaching villagers how to make solar ovens. Those who are now learning how to make a device such as the solar cooker have saved (and disfiguring burns avoided) by what may turn out to be the most useful development of the early 20th century.

Easy to make solar ovens have been endorsed by the United Nations and countries such as India and Nigeria, as the best way to improve the lives of women and families everywhere. Even in more developed nations, ovens do consume a great deal of energy. As such, many are experimenting with learning how to make hybrid solar and gas stoves.

When it comes to making solar panels, the technology is moving so fast now, that you want to keep up on the very latest on making solar cells and panels to ensure you’re getting the most useful information on how to make a solar panel with a reasonable efficiency.

While very few people actually bother to make their own solar panel arrays, it is very common for people to make their own solar water heater. The manufacturers that supply parts for these applications are in a better position to meet demand these days than the makers of PV panels. Indeed, a very simple and effective system can be made with glass, black paint and rubber tubing. While the efficiency will be far less than professionally manufactured units, you can save hundreds or thousands of dollars and have the satisfaction of being terribly clever.

Another easy project is learning how to make a solar radiometer so you can test the intensity of the power you receive. If you feel yourself up to this sort of task, you can certainly follow instructions on how to make a solar light. These technologies are great practice for more serious projects. Even those who have an existing generator can make the power solar work for them.