With an ever-increasing number of electric vehicle owners in the UK and a continued push towards emission-free motoring, the question of whether or not you can charge an electric vehicle (EV) with solar panels to become even more energy efficient is bound to come up.
The technology to do this exists, and a number of companies offer solar panel and EV charging solutions, including Applegarth Electrical. However, there’s no such thing as a standalone solar-powered EV charge point (yet).
So what do you need to know if you want to install solar panels and start charging your EV at home using completely renewable energy?
Solar Panels and EV Charging: What Do You Need?
To create a home car charging system that utilises solar power, you will first need to install a solar PV system made up of several solar panels and inverters, which convert the sun’s energy into electricity. The number of panels you need will depend on your EV’s battery size and power output – a quick Google search of your car’s make and model should reveal this information.
However, you may want to use any excess electricity your solar panels generate during the day to power your home rather than feed it back into the grid. If so, that will factor into how many solar panels you need to install. You might also want to consider installing a solar battery if you don’t want to sell your excess to the grid and instead want to use it to power your home at night.
Of course, you will also need an EV charge point, which will need to be installed by an OLEV-approved contractor. These days, you need to have a “smart” model capable of determining how much power to draw from the grid based on time of day and energy prices.
Why Invest in Creating a Solar-Powered EV Charging System?
There are several reasons behind wanting to simultaneously go electric with your vehicle and go solar with your home. Firstly, it’s a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. If you decide to invest in a solar battery, you can entirely power your home and your car using renewable energy – with no emissions or dependence on the grid whatsoever (subject to being able to install adequate solar capacity).
Secondly, it can be a great money saver. Once you’ve paid for the initial installation of your solar PV system and EV charge point, the ongoing costs are very low. With the current crisis surrounding the cost of energy, solar panels are now paying for themselves much quicker than previously.
Finally, it’s worth remembering that as electric cars become the norm, your home charging infrastructure will only become more critical. If you install solar panels and an EV charge point now, you’ll be future-proofing your home against future changes in the energy and driving market.
Speak to Applegarth Electrical Today Regarding Your Solar Panel and EV Charge Point Options
If you’re interested in learning more about how to create a solar-powered home car charging system, our team at Applegarth Electrical would be more than happy to discuss your options with you.
We specialise in the design, installation and maintenance of solar PV systems, and we’re an OLEV-approved installer of domestic and workplace EV charge points. Whether you want to move your entire home’s energy supply away from grid dependence or you’re just interested in powering your car using renewable energy, we can help.
Get in touch with us today to find out more on 0151 649 8350 or email us at info@applegarth.co.uk.
