I am very interested in building my own solar powered energy system for my home. What's the cost to build or buy a residential solar panel?

One solar panel with 12V electric output costs between $100 to $250. Many of these panels are the portable kind (which are cheaper) and are a great way to reduce your dependency on your power company by generaating your own electricity.

Now a residential solar panel that is mounted on a rooftop costs more. There is the Mitsubishi 185-watt panel which costs $1,020.

But with states like CA, MA, IL, AZ (and a lot others) giving you tax incentives up to 30% of the installation cost the price is getting better and better. In fact, Congress just lifted the $2,000 cap on the 30% tax rebate. So now it is 30% off on whatever you do buy and install for your home.

And if you live in the Midwest where the wind is nearly constant, you might want to consider your own wind generator. Congress just passed the Renewable Energy and Job Creation Act of 2008 which includes a $4,000 credit for homeowners who install small wind generators for power generation.

For a simple guide that shows you how to build and install your own solar panels and wind generators, go to Easily Build A Solar Panel and Wind Generator

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