Here's how Tesla uses its giant batteries to power small islands

As Puerto Ricans continue to suffer without power in the wake of Hurricane Maria, Tesla and other companies are proposing alternative solutions.

Puerto Rico's 3.5 million residents lost power after Hurricane Maria, a Category 4 store, destroyed the island's electric grid. It may take six months before Puerto Rico can repair the power grid, leading the government to consider other remedies in the interim.

Puerto Rico Governor Ricardo Rossello said Friday that representatives are "exploring opportunities" to use Tesla's commercial batteries and solar panels to restore power.

It's a big undertaking for the electric automaker, which is using the occasion to increase battery production. But Tesla has already successfully built similar systems on other islands - here's how:

Get the latest Tesla stock price here.