One of the major problems many home owners are facing right now is the high energy cost. Apart from the bank mortgage, the electricity bill is one of the largest household expenses.To help reduce home energy consumption, many people are turning to power sources such as solar and wind. However, a professionally installed system can cost upwards of 40,000. Many people simply would not be able to afford it.A cheaper alternative for a residential renewable energy system is via a Do It Yourself (DIY) approach. If you are planning a DIY energy system for your home, the following 4 tips will save you money.1) START WITH A SMALL SYSTEMIt is best to build a small system first and then scale it up slowly. There are many technical aspects to consider before you set up the system. Can your roof support the extra weight, are you allowed to install solar panel in your county, do you have space for the battery bank etc are some of the issues you have to sort out.2) YOU HAVE SOME DIY SKILLObviously, if you are planning to make the solar panel or wind turbine yourself, you must be good with hand tools. Can you handle a screwdriver or hand saw? If you can't, it is a good idea to get some help.3) GET THINGS DONE EFFICIENTLYWhen you are making the system, make sure you get it done efficiently. Do not skip on this, especially on the type of building material used. You want to minimize error both in judgment and facilitation.4) HAVE SOME WORKING KNOWLEDGEIt will be helpful is you have some working knowledge on either solar or wind power system. Even if you can't build the system yourself, you can outsource it to a contractor. With the knowledge, at least you can have a meaningful discussion with the builder. DIY SOLAR PANELS AND WINDMILLS BUILDING GUIDESEARTH 4 ENERGY - Make your own solar panels or wind turbine. "More info here"HOME MADE POWER PLANT - There are some other guides for DIY wind and solar generators, but all of those that I've read don't get into the same details. "More info here"ABOUT THE AUTHORWill Yap is a renewable energy enthusiast and he writes about home solar and wind power on his blog. Are you looking for ways to reduce your electricity bill? If you are, check out the Green DIY Energy guide. Does it work? Read the Green DIY Energy review on his blog for the answer. Article Source: 4 Money Saving Tips For DIY Home Solar Power System