DIY Solar Resources?

TihSon writes "I'm building a large shed out back and I want to power the lighting using a surplus solar panel. In searching for information on how to go about this, I have found a lot of rough DIY guides for various projects that are close to my goal. But none seem to explain the reasoning and theory behind using solar panels, so hacking their project to suit my own needs could be pretty much hit-and-miss. I don't want to do a hacked-up job, and future solar projects are not out of the question, so something a bit more in-depth is required. Do you have suggestions for books or Web sites you have used to learn the ins and outs of using solar panels? Something that starts with basic theory and ends with the ability to wire a house would be perfect."

Comments

Re:Free energy

[rs79]

Hook up solar cell to charge controller (so you don't overcharge the battery, they hate that).

Hook up the battery to an inverter (to make 115V AC)

Plug light into inverter.

If the battery or solar cell aren't big enough, you'll know real quick.

Wind and river turbines are a pig to hook up. Solar cels are stupid easy. Just hook up the wires.