Can you charge an electric car with solar panels? Absolutely. Solar and electric vehicles can be a great combination, allowing you to power your car at home while using the energy your solar system produces.
If you’ve already purchased an electric car, odds are you’ve seen a pretty solid increase in your monthly electric bill and are looking for a way to lower those costs. You’re no longer paying for gas but you’ve basically swapped some of the cost by paying more for your electricity. And if you’re just starting to research electric cars, it’s a great idea to count all the costs involved before jumping in.
That’s where a solar panel system comes in – depending on the system size you choose, you can take a hefty chunk out of (or even eliminate) your utility bill. The electric car charging costs will be in addition to your regular electric bill, which will definitely send you into the higher tiers (that gets pricey!)
So how much energy does an electric car use?
Electric vehicles vary in how much electricity they use. Factors such as the vehicle model, driving habits, mileage, weather, and charging habits can all affect how much additional electricity you’ll need each month.
If you’re considering solar for a home with an electric vehicle, your expected EV charging should be included when determining the size of your solar system. A solar professional can review your current electricity use and estimated driving needs to help determine how much additional energy your system should be designed to produce.
How does Solar Help With EV Charging Costs?
Charging an electric vehicle at home will increase your electricity use, but solar panels can help offset some of that additional demand. How much you can offset depends on several factors, including how often you drive, your vehicle’s efficiency, your utility rates, the size of your solar system, and when you charge your EV.
For California homeowners, pairing an electric vehicle with home solar can be especially appealing because both electricity rates and gasoline prices can be high. Instead of relying on national averages that change over time, it’s best to look at your actual driving habits and electric bill when determining how much additional solar capacity you may need.
A solar professional can review your household energy use along with your expected EV charging needs to help determine an appropriate system size.
Planning for an Electric vehicle and solar
Even if you aren’t ready to purchase an electric vehicle yet, it can be helpful to consider your future charging needs when designing a solar system. If an EV may be in your future, let your solar professional know so that expected electricity use can be considered when sizing your system.
Planning ahead may make it easier to accommodate increased energy needs later. If you already have solar and are adding an electric vehicle, your existing system can be evaluated to determine whether additional solar panels or other system changes may be appropriate.