SOLAR AFTER 14 YEARS - THIS HACK CUT HIS PAYBACK PERIOD IN HALF

EV Channels Review

This video provides a compelling long-term review of a 14-year-old solar panel installation and two first-generation Tesla Powerwalls. The owner reports minimal maintenance, with only a minor software glitch on the Powerwalls. The initial investment of nearly $50,000 was significantly offset by substantial federal and state tax credits, bringing the effective cost down to $17,500. Today, new Tesla panels are nearly half the price. The solar system consistently generates about $145 per month, nearly covering his electricity bill. A "powerwall hack" allows him to charge the Powerwalls from the grid at low off-peak rates (5 cents/kWh) and sell excess energy back to the utility at higher rates (13-15 cents/kWh), effectively making him a "money-making machine" with a power bill as low as $30. The owner also discusses his rare, nearly 300,000-mile first-gen Model S, highlighting its RWD, large frunk, and the owner's charging habits (charging to 80%, avoiding prolonged 100% states) as keys to its longevity. Despite a motor replacement, the car's battery is still performing well. The video also touches on the potential of using a Cybertruck as a mobile power source, a feature not available on older Tesla vehicles.