The EASIEST way to connect used EV packs to grid! 🔋

Summary

In this educational video, Darla demonstrates how to repurpose an old Nissan Leaf EV battery to power her workshop for eight months off-grid per year. She details the setup, including a Fronius inverter, solar panels, and the battery's connection to the system. Darla also explains the communication setup using a Liligo S32 to translate CAN messages for the inverter. The video provides a practical guide for those interested in sustainable energy solutions, highlighting the ease of setup and the potential for significant electricity savings.

Takeaways

• 🔋 Darla is demonstrating how an old EV battery, specifically a 30 kWh Nissan Leaf battery from 2017, powers her workshop for eight months off-grid per year.
• 🌞 The battery is charged by seven kWp of solar panels on the roof, connected to a Fronius inverter.
• 🔌 Darla has added an OBD2 port to the battery for monitoring battery statistics using Leaf Spy, which is optional for users.
• 🛠️ The setup is temporary and Darla plans to move the battery to a proper installation with a foundation and fireproofing.
• 🔗 The battery is connected to the inverter with a reduction box to accommodate the inverter's maximum input of 10 square millimeters cabling.
• 🔄 A 230 volts to 12 volts adapter is used to distribute 12 volts to the battery for its control systems.
• 👨‍🔧 A startup sequence is followed to safely turn on the battery's pre-charge, positive contactor, and then the BMS, with the pre-charge being turned off to prevent burning.
• 💻 The communication between the battery and the inverter is facilitated by a Liligo s32 device, which translates CAN messages into Modbus registers.
• 📚 Darla has made all the information and wiring diagrams open source and available on GitHub for those interested in replicating the setup.
• 🔋 The system has been running for two months without issues, providing a cost-effective solution for off-grid power.
• 🚀 Darla mentions the possibility of adding Tesla batteries to the system, which could offer larger capacity at a low cost.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of Darla's video?

The main purpose of Darla's video is to demonstrate how an old used EV (Electric Vehicle) battery can power her entire workshop for eight months of the year without relying on the grid.

What type of battery is Darla using in her setup?

Darla is using a 30 kilowatt-hour Nissan Leaf battery from a 2017 model in her setup.

How is the battery being charged in Darla's workshop?

The battery is being charged by solar panels, which are connected to a Fronius inverter.

What is the role of the 'Fronius inverter' in the setup?

The Fronius inverter is used to convert the DC power generated by the solar panels into AC power that can be used by the battery and the workshop's electrical system.

What is the significance of the 'OBD2 port' mentioned in the script?

The OBD2 port allows Darla to connect Leaf Spy directly to the battery, enabling her to monitor battery statistics and performance.

What is the purpose of the 'pre-charge resistor' in the battery setup?

The pre-charge resistor is used to prevent sparks when connecting the high voltage battery, ensuring a safe connection process.

How does Darla ensure the battery and inverter communicate effectively?

Darla uses a Liligo s32 device that translates CAN bus messages from the battery into Modbus registers that the Fronius inverter can understand.

What is the current status of Darla's battery setup?

The battery setup is a temporary proof of concept that has been running for two months. Darla plans to move the battery to a proper installation with a foundation and fireproofing.

What additional feature does Darla suggest for the system?

Darla suggests adding a small battery backup for the system to ensure it doesn't turn off during power outages, allowing continued use of the battery.

What other types of batteries is Darla considering for future use?

Darla is also considering adding Tesla batteries to the same setup, as they can be obtained at a low cost and offer large capacity.

How can viewers find more information on how to replicate Darla's setup?

Viewers can find more information, including wiring diagrams and the startup sequence, on GitHub, as mentioned by Darla in the video.