Building the first solar Mutant Vehicle charging station at Burning Man 2024

Burning Man 2024 was a groundbreaking year for sustainable innovation on the playa. Our team proudly introduced the first-ever solar-powered mutant vehicle charging station, a project born from passion, expertise, and a vision for a greener future at Black Rock City.

Inspiration Behind the Solar Charging Station

Our journey began with a simple yet ambitious idea: to set an example for other camps and artists by showcasing the possibilities of sustainable energy. With our background in solar technology, we realized that offering a free-to-use charging station could encourage others to explore battery-based art cars and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Designing for Ease and Sustainability

  • Ease of Assembly

    We wanted volunteers to assemble the station without specialized skills. By standardizing components, we made the construction process straightforward.

  • Minimal Unique Parts

    Using only a small handful of unique pipe sizes simplified logistics and assembly.

  • Reusability and Sustainability

    We chose schedule 40 / 2-inch OD aluminum pipes and speed-rail connectors. Aluminum is not only lightweight and durable but also the most sustainable metal due to its recyclability.

TECH SPECS

The heart of our charging station comprised:

Solar Panels

Thirty-six 410-watt solar panels from Mission Solar: Providing robust and reliable energy generation.

INVERTERS

Three EG4 6000XP inverters: Paralleled together to deliver three-phase power output, essential for charging larger vehicles.

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BATTERIES

Modular 15kWh battery racks: These allowed us to efficiently transfer energy to our core camp power grid and share power where needed.

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Memorable Moments: Community and Connection

Within just five minutes of installing the last solar panel, we experienced the true spirit of Burning Man. An art car rolled up with a dead battery, seeking assistance. Directed by the welding camp down the street, they found us ready and equipped to help. We provided a jump start and a battery charge, sending them back into the festival's vibrant flow.

Another highlight was charging the "Mothership," an all-electric art car crafted by the talented team at Titanic's End. Seeing our station power such an incredible creation was both rewarding and inspiring.

Environmental Significance and Future Impact

Our goal extends beyond this year's event. We aim to:

  • Inspire Sustainable Practices: Demonstrate that large-scale solar power is not only feasible but highly effective in the challenging desert environment.
  • Encourage Electric Mutant Vehicles: Motivate artists and engineers to adopt electric powertrains for their creations, reducing the event's overall carbon footprint.
  • Foster Community Collaboration: By offering free charging services, we strengthen the bonds between camps and participants, emphasizing the principles of gifting and communal effort.

A Nod to the Past with an Eye on the Future

A favorite detail of our charging station was a 1950s gas pump, repurposed into an electric charger. Watching the dials turn to measure watt-hours consumed bridged the nostalgic charm of the past with the innovative spirit of the future.

Looking Ahead

This project was just the beginning. We plan to:

  • Expand Capacity: Accommodate more vehicles and have a "library" of adapters to accommodate all types of base vehicles
  • Engage the Community: Host workshops and discussions on sustainable energy practices at future events.

Burning Man is a canvas for radical self-expression and innovation. By integrating sustainable technology into this unique environment, we hope to inspire others to imagine and build a more sustainable future—not just on the playa, but everywhere.