Does the idea of solar energy fascinate you? Is it because of the technology, the independence it can give you, or because of the money which could be saved by going solar?
If you are considering getting a solar system, you’ve probably found it comes with a hefty price tag.
But what if I told you that you could create solar panels for less money?
I’m going to bring you some of the internet’s best tutorials on how to build your own solar panels, how to construct your own systems with purchased parts, how to upcycle parts to create a solar panel, and even a place to get valuable information prior to deciding to go with DIY solar panels and systems.
In turn, this could save you a great deal of money and help you to be more self-sufficient while saving money.
Here are the tutorials you should know about:

1. The Step-by-Step Guide

Creating your own solar panels and solar system can feel quite overwhelming. There are dangers of electric shock if you don’t understand how the system works.
But this tutorial takes some of the fear out of creating your own solar panels. They tell you how to acquire the products you need to put the panels together and also how to get them to work correctly. If you’re someone new to the idea of installing solar panels, this should be a great read for you.
2. The DIY Solar Set-Up

I’m someone who has talked to professionals about installing solar panels on my home. I was stunned when I found out how much it could cost us out of pocket.
However, after reading this tutorial, I’m beginning to feel more confident in creating and setting up my own solar panels. It’s important to do plenty of research before jumping into a DIY project. This is another good read to give you an idea of what you’re signing up for and all things which should be considered.
3. The Pop Can DIY Solar Panels

Are you working on an extremely tight budget? Or are you someone who likes to use items you already have on hand or recycle items to avoid waste? Then this is the project for you!
This tutorial shows you how to take used soda cans and turn them into solar panels. It’s a neat idea which could save you a great deal of money in the process. Plus, it can help you to become more self-sustained too.
4. DIY Solar Generator

Many people who choose to go solar aren’t doing it because they want to save money. A great deal of them wants to be prepared in case the grid shuts down. You can have a generator which is gas powered.
But if the grid shuts down and when the gas is gone, you’re out of luck. Unless, you follow this tutorial on how to build a solar powered generator for under $300 It’s budget-friendly and great for being prepared. It’s an idea worth checking out.
5. The Off-Grid Solar PV System

Have you obtained a quote for installing a complete solar system? Did you develop sticker shock because of how costly the system can be?
Well, this is where you need this tutorial. It tells you how to get each part required for your solar system. It also shows you how to put each component together to get the system up and running on your own for a much lower price.
6. Solar Panels for Beginners

This tutorial isn’t for someone who wants to upcycle and make the entire system from scratch. It tells you how to purchase the solar cells to create a panel.
If you’re interested in purchasing the parts needed and assembling them all the way through, you could have a solar system for much less money than you may have initially anticipated. Plus, the tutorial breaks the process down into basic steps which makes it much less intimidating.
7. The Frugal Chicken Solar Panels

You’re going to find putting solar panels together is a similar process no matter how you slice it. However, finding the tutorial which explains it best to you is the key.
Well, this tutorial is pretty blunt on how to install solar panels. If you’re someone who is researching solar systems to figure out if this is something you can do on your own, check this out. It makes the process easy to understand.
8. Foil Window Solar Panels

Let’s say you need to make an easy solar panel. Let’s also say you want to put the panels on your window instead of a roof.
Well, you’ve found the right tutorial. This one shows you how to construct a solar panel which weighs only three pounds and can be attached to your window to help create solar energy for your home. Is your curiosity peaked? Great! Go check it out.
9. The Solar Panel Video

Are you new to creating solar panels? Does it feel overwhelming? I understand. My husband is the carpenter in the family which means anything new we do; I’m the one who feels clueless.
Well, if you’re feeling clueless about this too, you need a video tutorial to show you how to construct solar panels. This tutorial is thorough and will boost your confidence.
10. DIY Moving Solar Panel

Are you worried your home won’t get enough sunlight if you go to the trouble of creating your own solar panels? You’re in luck with this one.
This tutorial shows you how to create a DIY solar panel which will follow the sun. When this happens, you don’t have to worry about not having enough energy to offset your efforts. Such a cool idea, don’t you agree?
11. Building Solar Panels on the Cheap

Let’s be honest for a second; in most households, the budget dictates what you can do and when you can do it.
Well, this is another tutorial to show you how to construct your own solar panels, how to test the solar panels, and how to accomplish all of this on a budget. Don’t let your budget stand in your way of freedom. Instead, choose this tutorial and learn how to do things yourself for less money.
12. Mr. Money Mustache’s DIY Solar Set-Up

I’m a fan of this tutorial. This person shares their solar set-up which gives you insight into what your set-up could look like.
Also, they share exact dollar amounts. Keep in mind, this could vary with location and how many years go by between their set-up and you completing your set-up. I love how it gives you a full picture.
13. The Tough Questions

This post is a vital source for research if you’re considering installing solar panels on your own. Though this one isn’t a tutorial, they answer many essential questions.
If you’re wondering what steps you need to take before building your own solar system, check out this information first. You could learn how much you could save and other actions to save money in the process.
14. Mother Earth News DIY Solar Panel Tutorial

Mother Earth News has been around for decades. They were one of the original homesteading and self-sufficiency resources.
Which is why their tutorial is vital to share with those who are considering going DIY for solar panels. They’re great for producing tutorials which are easy to understand, and they’re a source with authority.
15. Solar Panels on the Cheap

Are you working on an extremely tight budget? You’re going to love this tutorial. They show you how to build a solar panel from scratch for less than other tutorials.
Their secret is to purchase bags of broken solar cells. It lowers the cost a great deal, but they’ve still figured out a way to make the solar panels function with the broke cells. It’s an interesting read and could make going solar a reality for someone even on the tightest of budgets.
Well, you now have a variety of tutorials which will show you how to construct a solar system from scratch, how to purchase the parts of a solar system and put it together yourself, how to use broken parts to create your solar system, and even a place to get your most important questions answered prior to choosing DIY.
It’s our hope this will keep you fully informed to make the best decision for your goals and budget. We also hope you learn the safest way to create your own solar panels and have great success.