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With alternative energy all the rage right now, many people are interested in solar Cells. Of course it’s possible to make your own, but is it worth it?

Just do a quick search online and you will find dozens of results on how to make solar cells at home - and these articles make it sound easy too. While it may be fun and not technically difficult, it takes time and is not a simple one-step process.

So what is wrong with a DIY solar cell project?

1. You need to buy lots of equipment at the hardware store, like copper foil sheets, wires, and an electric stove.

2. An hour or so is needed only to make a single solar cell. This is because you have to heat it up with an electric stove or electric heater, and then you have to let it cool down so that you can test it.

3. If you want to save a significant amount of energy and reduce your electricity bill, you will need thousands of these cells - not a viable option for most people.

If you still want to use solar power, what can you do?

Try buying solar cells on eBay by searching for “chipped” or “broken” solar cells, for one.

Of course this will cost money as well, but you will be saving in the long run - as it would likely take half a year of nearly full time work to go full solar DIY.

And while it is true that having solar panels installed is expensive, it is not because of the parts. It is because of the installation and assembly of the panels.

A much smarter DIY project would be to purchase some cheap pre-made cells and save money on assembly and installation.

So is it a bad idea to try to make your own solar cells?

It is a great idea if you have a year or two of free time, but if you don’t have that kind of time, you would be better served buying the parts used and by doing the “expensive” work yourself. While it might be a fun project, making your own solar cells is still just too difficult for nearly everyone out there.