“I’ve always been interested in electronics,” said Selle, adding that he’s also been interested in the space program and its use of solar power.
Several years ago, he began tinkering with solar power.
“I watched a lot of videos, and it didn’t look that hard,” he said. “It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to read and take notes.”
After taking notes, he bought some solar cells from an eBay seller and started assembling a solar panel, then another.
After building solar panels, Selle debated whether to install them on the roof of his home or on a steel post. By installing them on a post, he can turn the panels so that they follow the sun throughout the day.
Selle said that his system is tied into the power grid so that when the panels are generating more power than he is using it is feeding the power grid.
“Building solar panels is really easy,” Selle said. “If you can put batteries in a flashlight and figure out how to work a soldering iron, you can do this.”
Selle estimated that a do-it-yourselfer could build a small, home solar energy project for about $200.
“For me, it’s just a hobby,” he said. “When I get bored, I build a solar panel.”
Selle said he also built a wind turbine that he used to power holiday lights. Another alternative energy project that he built was a heat collector for heating water.
During the presentation at the library, Selle will tell about his solar energy project.
Selles hopes that this might become a club, with regular meetings. Those attending are encouraged to bring a laptop, tablet or notebook paper so they can take information on websites and other resources Selles will offer.
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