Tesla's Gigafactory east of Sparks is coming into focus. A Tesla Spokesman says phase one of the project is complete. The factory has been producing lithium batteries since October. Some are shipped to Fremont, California where the battery supplies for Tesla cars are assembled. But in Storey County, the focus is on continuing to build out the building and on "energy products."
They build refrigerator-sized power packs that involve thousands of battery cells and are able to power up to three homes a day. And they are hoping to revolutionize home energy use with what they call a Power Wall. They say paired with renewable energy sources like wind or solar can cut you free from the grid.Â
Today they took a group of media-types on a tour of the sea of computers used for design and purchasing and of the manufacturing plant. The roof itself is a wonder. It will eventually be covered with solar panels. The mission for Tesla is with energy efficiency and the solar panels will power the plant and help them achieve a zero carbon footprint.Â
They say the operation is right on schedule. As for the employees, no numbers were offered but they say they are right on schedule with that as well. And they say they have maintained their promise that 94% of the employees would be Nevadans.
And just down the road along USA Parkway they have opened a service center for Tesla cars. So far it's unmarked and that's by design as service there is by appointment only and they pick up, service and deliver your car back to you rather than having customers on-sight.Â
