Tesla has always been known for its innovative approach to sustainability, and it’s now launching a new feature that could revolutionize the way we charge our electric vehicles (EVs). The automaker is developing a tool that allows homeowners with rooftop solar panels to use excess solar energy to charge their Tesla vehicles.
The new feature was revealed through an update to the Tesla mobile app, which included code indicating that the company is working on optimizing charging for solar-powered homes. The code reads, “Plug in your vehicle at home during the day to charge using the excess clean energy generated by your solar system.”
– String Changes pic.twitter.com/PpEhHtOl4J
— Tesla App Updates (iOS) (@Tesla_App_iOS) March 15, 2023
The feature is not yet available to consumers, but it’s clear that Tesla is focused on controlling power loads and optimizing charging for EV owners. This approach differs from the popular bidirectional charging method used in the EV industry, which allows EVs to feed excess energy back into the grid.
See also: Tesla build first V4 Supercharger station with solar panel in Arizona
Tesla’s latest move follows the announcement of a plan to offer unlimited overnight charging for a flat fee of $30 per month. This plan also reflects the company’s focus on controlling the load from EV charging.
By using excess solar energy to charge their vehicles, homeowners can reduce their carbon footprint and save money on their energy bills. Tesla’s new feature could also encourage more people to invest in solar panels, as they can now use their excess energy to power their cars.