It is possible to carry out the process of installing solar panels on your own. There are solar systems specifically designed for DIY enthusiasts that, although sometimes time consuming, should be more than feasible. However, it's worth noting that many DIY solar panels are not designed to connect to the traditional power grid. Can you install solar panels yourself? The short answer is “yes”, but there are some significant drawbacks to doing it alone.
Installing solar panels is not as simple as installing a lamp or changing the water filtration system. Almost anyone can install solar energy with the right information, trust, and support network. Get all that and more in our free DIY solar workshop, designed to guide you through your project step-by-step. It doesn't mean that you “can't” install solar panels yourself, but if you're thinking about taking on the task, here are some things you might want to consider before you overlook.
A self-made solar panel installation can save homeowners thousands of dollars in initial installation costs. With the cost and savings figure in hand, you can calculate the performance of your DIY solar panel project. However, in order to qualify for FITs, the project will have to be managed by an MCS-accredited retailer, and the total cost of this option cannot be much lower than the cost of a complete installation by a solar energy company. Use solar panels with clamps at the ends of the rail; they hold the panel in place but are less visible from the ground.
If you're someone who likes to undertake large and challenging DIY projects, then a solar installation could be just what you're looking for. Check if your solar system is working by activating your solar monitoring application, almost all inverters come with one today. Heights and high-voltage electricity are two main risks that DIY enthusiasts are exposed to during a solar installation. Improperly installed solar panels can end up costing you money in the long run, which is actually contrary to the concept of solar panels in the first place.
Your solar panel system is now ready, but you'll have to go through a few more obstacles before you can turn it on. Building and installing solar panels on the grid yourself remains a viable option if you plan to use all the energy produced by your solar panel system or if your property is off the grid, although the financial rewards will be significantly lower given FiT's lack of generation and export rates. Unless you have a flat roof, your solar installation will involve drilling a large number of holes in the roof. In a nutshell, there's a lot of work to do outside of your actual solar system installation.
If you want to save money and are skillful and confident, it's definitely possible to make your own home solar installation connected to the grid.