Can you charge your car with solar energy? [2023 update]

Solar charging: A bright future

Our reliance on fossil fuels has been challenged by environmental concerns and supply issues. As a result, many countries are shifting toward reducing fossil fuel use, including in transportation, where electric mobility is becoming the norm.

Global EV sales have grown rapidly over the past decade, with over a million sold in July 2023 alone. This shift helps replace the use of at least 1.5 million barrels of oil per day. However, it also increases the demand for electricity, making sustainable energy generation crucial.

We already produce around one-third of our electricity from renewables like solar, wind, and hydro, with solar accounting for 60%. This shows the potential for a fully renewable energy future.

The current state of global solar generation

Solar power is gaining popularity because it's available everywhere and free to use. According to the COP28 report, global solar capacity reached 1 TW in 2022 and is expected to exceed 5.4 TW by 2030. That’s enough to power the combined annual electricity needs of the USA, Russia, and Brazil.

Many households are installing small-scale solar panels to reduce costs and carbon footprints. This trend is helping drive the growth of solar energy worldwide.

What is solar energy?

Solar energy refers to the energy emitted by the sun, which can be converted into electricity via a process called photovoltaics. Solar panels, made of semiconductor materials like silicon, capture sunlight and convert it into usable electricity for homes or storage.

Solar charging

Solar panels can significantly reduce household energy costs, and when paired with an electric vehicle, they multiply these benefits. Instead of relying on grid electricity, you can use 100% renewable energy to charge your EV for free.

Solar is an uneven and variable power source

Although solar is clean and abundant, it’s not always consistent. Solar panels generate electricity based on sunlight exposure, so it’s typically converted from DC to AC before being used to power appliances or charge your EV.

Can you fully charge a car with solar?

A standard home solar installation may not provide enough energy to fully charge an EV from 0% to 100% in a single day. However, for most drivers, this isn’t necessary, as average daily driving distances are much lower.

But, do you need to fully replenish your car every day?

Most homeowners don't deplete their EV batteries daily. In the UK, PV panels can generate between 1kWh and 9kWh per day, which is enough to cover the average daily commute in many countries.

How much range can you add with solar?

Even at lower output levels, solar charging can provide enough energy for a Standard Range Tesla Model 3 to travel around 64km, which is more than enough for most daily commutes. For longer trips, solar can reduce reliance on expensive grid electricity.

Solar chargers

Can you connect your EV charging station directly to solar panels? Are there specific solar chargers available? Or do you need a smart EV charging station to use solar power effectively?

The answer depends on your setup, but all options are possible.

1. Energy management systems and solar charging

Energy Management Systems (EMS) help balance energy generation and consumption. By connecting your EV charger to an EMS, you can prioritize solar energy for your vehicle, optimizing your usage.

2. Smart solar and smart charging

Smart charging stations with solar features allow you to optimize your charging sessions. You can choose to only use solar power or combine it with grid electricity as needed.

3. Solar charging

If your EV charger doesn’t support smart features, you can still charge with solar power, though optimization will be limited. Battery storage systems are essential for using solar energy later when needed.

How does battery storage work with solar?

Storing solar energy is key to using it when needed. Battery storage systems allow you to charge your EV overnight using the energy generated during the day. This makes solar power more versatile and reliable.

Net metering

Net metering allows homeowners to sell excess solar energy back to the grid and receive credits on their energy bills. While not available everywhere, it’s a great way to reduce electricity costs and maximize the value of your solar investment.

Bidirectional charging

Bidirectional charging is a promising technology that allows EVs to both draw power from and return power to the grid or your home. Although not yet widely available, it could revolutionize how we use renewable energy in the future.

Leveraging government and non-governmental incentives for solar EV charging

Governments and organizations offer various incentives to promote solar and EV charging. These include subsidies, tax credits, and net metering programs that make solar installations more affordable and beneficial.

When it comes to EV charging, are solar panels worth it?

Charging your EV with solar power has its pros and cons. On the plus side, it reduces electricity costs, lowers your carbon footprint, and offers energy independence. However, it requires an initial investment, and weather conditions can affect performance.

Pros of solar and charging

• Lower electricity cost: Solar power is free, reducing monthly utility bills.
• Charging for free: Depending on your mileage, you may often charge your EV for free.
• Accessing more financial benefits: Participate in net metering schemes and earn rewards for surplus energy.
• Reducing your carbon footprint: Generate clean, renewable energy to power your car.
• Becoming energy independent: Create a self-sufficient energy solution for your home.

Cons of solar and charging

• Initial high investment costs: Installation can be costly, but many governments offer incentives.
• Weather dependency: Efficiency depends on sunlight and weather conditions.
• Need for battery storage: Essential if your EV is away during the day.
• Energy generation limits: A standard solar array may not fully recharge your EV in a day.
• Ownership requirement: You need access to a roof or land to install panels.
• Consider moving challenges: Moving your EV-charging setup can be complex.

What is the future of solar energy?

Solar energy will play a major role in our transition to cleaner, more sustainable power sources. Pairing solar panels with EV charging stations allows you to charge your car with renewable energy right from your own home.

Charging EVs with solar power is not only possible but also highly beneficial for the environment, finances, and energy efficiency. It’s a growing trend worldwide and a great step toward a greener future.