General Motors said it is setting up a new business unit offering its own solar power and storage systems from late next year.
The new unit, called GM Energy will provide solar panels and home energy storage for residential and commercial users.
Commercial operations are already underway, while the home energy system will be available from next year when the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV goes on sale.
Tesla had previously offered charging, solar and energy storage for several years. There are also more traditional competitors like Generac.
For GM their services can provide cheaper energy to charge their customers’ electric vehicles. GM also cut deals with utilities to allow its EV buyers to use their vehicle batteries to power homes in the event of a power outage.
The service will begin next year in a pilot project between GM and PG&E Corp., which provides services in California. Ford Motor Co. offers similar capabilities to its F-150 Lightning pickup.
For solar panel technology, GM will partner with SunPower, the country’s fifth-largest solar power provider after Tesla No. 4, according to researcher Wood MacKenzie.
Lightyear 0 solar electric car : specifications, price and range
