How a DIY Solar System Powers a Home and Two Electric Cars
A self-built solar power system now runs an entire home, including two electric cars. Glubux, a renewable energy enthusiast, assembled the setup using repurposed laptop batteries and solar panels. Over time, the project grew into a fully off-grid solution with backup storage from a Tesla and an older Nissan electric vehicle. Glubux began collecting used laptop battery cells in 2016. By late 2024, the system had expanded to over 1000 repurposed batteries, all housed in a custom-built shed. The batteries store electricity generated by solar collectors mounted on the property.
To improve efficiency, he upgraded to higher-capacity solar panels in late 2024. The system now powers his entire home, including both electric vehicles. When excess energy is available, it charges the Tesla and Nissan, which then act as backup storage for cloudy days. Additional electronics regulate the charging and discharging cycles of the batteries. This ensures a steady power supply, even when sunlight is limited. The setup demonstrates how repurposed materials and careful planning can create a reliable off-grid energy solution.
The project shows how repurposed batteries and solar technology can replace traditional power sources. Glubux's system now supports daily energy needs, vehicle charging, and backup storage. With further upgrades, it could serve as a model for small-scale, sustainable energy setups.
