Because Tesla often open sources its patents (one more reason we love Elon Musk and his eco-friendly ventures), a number of innovators have been able to adopt the advanced technology and create more affordable DIY versions.
One innovation you might be interested in creating yourself is a Tesla Powerwall home battery, which normally sells for between $3,000 – $3,500. According to the company, these unique batteries charge using electric generated from solar panels and can power one’s home in the evening. Not only do they fortify one’s home against power outages, they provide a backup electric supply.
“Powerwall offers independence from the utility grid and the security of an emergency backup,” the company writes.
However, not everyone can afford a Tesla-branded Powerwall, which is why YouTuber JehuGarcia uploaded a video showing how to construct a much more affordable DIY version. He shows how with $300, anyone can construct a Powerwall, conserve money, and lessen their carbon footprint. Considering the entire production line is sold out for 2016, it might not be a bad idea to make your own.
Watch the video below:
In response to criticism concerning the DIY version’s lack of temperature control, overcharge control, over discharge control, and battery balancer, JehuGarcia commented:
“I’ve had those Tesla cells in my EV for 3 years and I’ve never had the need to balance them. My charger can not over charge them because it can’t supply more than 126V and I’ve actually have over discharged my cells many times, they don’t die if you know what you’re doing. Also, they don’t need the cooling, we don’t run them hard enough for heat.”
At the end of the day, this activist has offered an affordable version a number of people might benefit from. Follow his instructions at your own discretion, and comment below if you had success with the DIY version!
This article (HOW TO: Make A DIY Tesla Powerwall For Just $300 [Video]) is free and open source. You have permission to republish this article under a Creative Commons license with attribution to the author and TrueActivist.com
