There are ten different components that make up a solar powered generating system. Depending on what type of system you want to implement will depend on whether you use some or all of them.

Just to emphasize that point. For example, if your home gets electricity from the national grid, it doesn't mean you have to hook your system up to it if you don't want to.

PV Solar Panels

The PV solar panels are positioned so they get maximum sunlight throughout the day, and they turn sunlight into solar electric power. Unfortunately, they produce DC power, so we have to change this to AC power. You can connect as many panels as you like together, this is called a solar panel array. Follow this link find out more about how to build a solar panel.

They are connected in series so the flow of electricity is from to the next one in line. That is why you can have as many panels as you like and the more you have the electricity you generate.

DC (Direct Current) Disconnect

As the electricity flows from your panels, the first component it hits is the DC disconnect. This is a vital piece of kit as it switches off the electricity generated by your solar panels. This now allows to carryout maintenance on any other part of your system.

Battery Charge Controller

If you have a battery backup or a battery bank then a charge controller is a must have piece of equipment. If you have a charge controller, this will protect your batteries from becoming over charged. Over charging will reduce the life of your batteries.

Batteries

Learn about the various types of batteries that are available. You want to use deep cycle batteries like the ones they use in forklift trucks. Do not use car batteries.

Keep the batteries warm, that way they work better. If you don't have room in the house for them, make them a shelter outside, never leave them exposed. A battery box is also a good investment, they keep your batteries at a good temperature and also protect them from accidental damage.

System Meter

A system meter is very useful for telling you how much electricity you are using and how much power is left in your batteries. If you don't have one you do not know if you are producing enough electricity or not.

Main Supply Direct Current (DC) Disconnect

If you have a battery bank then you will need a main Direct Current disconnect. It is placed in-between your battery bank and your inverter. Like the solar panel disconnect, it is very handy for when you are carrying out maintenance on your system.

Alternating Current (AC) Direct Current (DC) Inverter

Solar panels and batteries produce a DC current. What we have to do is convert this DC current into an AC current. This is the job of the inverter to convert direct current to an alternating current.

Generator

Check out the many types of fossil fueled generators. If you live in a house that does not have an electric utility supplier then this is a good option to add to your system. A backup generator does not only secure your energy supply should something go wrong, it can also recharge your batteries during cloudy days or at night.

AC (Alternating Current) Breaker Panel

The AC breaker panel is where you feed the electricity you produced back to the national grid. Although all houses have them, only the electric company is allowed to wire them up. You have to get the electric company to come along and wire it up for you.

Whatever you do, do not wire it up yourself. You can get into a lot of trouble, and it isn't worth the hassle. The utility company will find out in the end..

Electric Meter

As with the breaker panel, you will also have a KWH meter. The meter measures your electric usage and your bill is calculated based on the figures from this meter. So if you send power back to the grid, this will go in reverse.

Video on Different Aspects Of Building Your Own Solar Panel

Once you know how to build a solar panel you now need to source all the other components to build a complete system to power your home. Go to build a solar panel and learn all you need to know about building the right system for your house.