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Can You Charge an Electric Car with Solar Panels?
Can You Charge an Electric Car with Solar Panels?
July 15, 2023

Can You Charge an Electric Car with Solar Panels?

The marriage of electric vehicles and renewable energy represents an exciting frontier in our quest for sustainable living. Whether our clients need an emergency electrical repair service or an EV charging station installation, the team at Neighborhood Electric enjoys helping our customers achieve their goals. If you’re looking for EVSE installers or want a more sustainable solution for your electrical system and daily commute, read below for information that can help.

Can Solar Energy Charge an Electric Car?

It’s true that solar energy can indeed be used to charge an electric car. Harnessing the power of the sun allows you to convert sunlight into electricity using solar panels. This clean, renewable energy can then be used to power your electric vehicle, reducing your reliance on grid electricity and lowering your carbon footprint.

Charging Your EV with Solar Energy

So, how can you charge your electric car at home using solar energy? It involves a system that includes solar panels called a solar array, a home battery storage solution, and a Level 2 charger. The solar panels convert sunlight into electricity, which is then stored in the home battery. This stored energy can be used to power your home, with excess energy diverted to charge your electric vehicle via the Level 2 charger.

Determining Your Solar Requirements

The number of solar panels needed to charge your electric car depends on a number of important factors, including the efficiency of the panels, the amount of sunlight in your location, and the energy requirements of your vehicle. As a general rule, you can expect that a typical home solar panel system of around 5 kW to 10 kW will generate enough electricity to cover both your home energy use and your electric vehicle charging needs.

Smart Battery Systems

Solar panels generate less electricity, on rainy or cloudy days, which could impact your ability to charge your EV. To overcome this, a home battery proves crucial. It stores excess power generated during sunny periods, ensuring a steady power supply even during less-than-optimal weather conditions. By integrating smart charging solutions, you can prioritize charging during peak sunlight hours and reduce consumption when the solar yield is low, ensuring maximum efficiency.

Is It Time for You to Invest in Solar Panels or an EV Charging Station Installation?

Using solar power to charge your electric vehicle provides an incredible opportunity to utilize renewable energy and contribute to environmental sustainability. While the process may seem complex, with the right system in place and the correct number of solar panels, you can easily and efficiently power your electric car. An electrician can help you make the best decisions for your investment. Get the help you need from the reliable EVSE installers at Neighborhood Electric. We offer reliable electrical repair service as well as new installations and replacements. If you’re ready to embrace the power of the sun for your electric vehicle charging needs, contact our team to learn more or to schedule an appointment with an experienced local electrician.