For this project I wanted to convert a commercial dual port ChargePoint EV charger into something I had full control over.    With ChargePoint pushing its clients to upgrade to the CT4000 (the large LCD screen model) lots of people are tearing out the CT2000 series chargers and either scrapping them or selling them.   I found mine on Facebook Market place for a couple hundred bucks.  These chargers are built really well, with extruded aluminum cases, aluminum component modules that slide out for easy replacement, they are just really nicely built chargers made to take abuse from people and weather. I use the word "Charger" a lot in this post, I'm well aware that the actual battery charger for the vehicle is actually mounted internal to the vehicle..  Each EV has its own on-board charger that can accept various AC voltages, convert to DC and charge your car battery. The external "charging stations" really just provide AC to those existing chargers, they are no

I have been wanting to install solar since I moved into my house 5 years ago.   When I bought my place I also purchased the empty lot next door with plans to put something over there with solar on it.   I finally decided to build a solar setup once I saw how cheap used commercial solar panels were.  When I came across santansolar.com and saw their used 260 Watt Grade A panels for $70.00 each (at the time of writing this) I thought no way, plus why would they have so many used solar panels, who would put them up only to take them down?   After calling the company and speaking with their sales guy, he said "we get that a lot" he also said they purchase used solar panels from commercial solar farm operators.  Maybe they have limited land space, and a newer higher wattage solar panel comes out, well its easier to replace them all then buy more land and add to their existing array, and that is where they get so many used panels.      With a 25 year manufactures warranty and sant