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With climate change becoming an increasing concern, there’s a growing movement towards sustainable living. One of the hallmarks of this shift is the rapid rise of Electric Vehicles (EVs) on UK roads. However, while EVs significantly reduce carbon emissions, the energy they use must come from somewhere. Enter solar panels—a green solution for powering these green vehicles. In this blog post, we’ll delve deep into the benefits of using solar panels to power home EV chargers and guide you through setting up a combined system.
Before we get into the specifics, let’s understand the inherent compatibility of solar energy and EVs. Both technologies are at the forefront of the renewable energy movement. Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity, which can then be used to charge EVs, ensuring the vehicles are running on clean, renewable energy. It’s a match made in eco-friendly heaven!
Cost Savings: Once installed, solar panels can significantly reduce, if not eliminate, your electricity bills. Given the increasing costs of petrol and diesel, solar energy can make driving almost free. Over time, the initial investment in solar panels pays for itself through savings.
Reduced Carbon Footprint: Combining EVs with solar charging amplifies your positive impact on the environment. Not only are you eliminating exhaust emissions, but you’re also using clean energy to power your vehicle.
Energy Independence: With solar panels, you’re less dependent on the grid. This means fewer concerns about rising energy prices or supply interruptions.
Maximise Use of Excess Energy: Instead of feeding surplus energy back into the grid, you can utilise it to charge your EV, ensuring no energy goes to waste.
Increase Property Value: Homes equipped with solar panels often have higher resale values, and with the growing trend of EVs, a home EV charging station can be an attractive bonus for potential buyers.
Begin by calculating the energy consumption of your EV. This can be found in the car’s specifications, usually given in kWh per 100 miles or km. Estimate your monthly driving distance to gauge your monthly EV energy consumption.
Next, evaluate your household energy needs. This, combined with your EV consumption, gives a clear picture of your total monthly energy requirement.
For UK homes, monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels are popular choices. Ensure your selected panels have a good balance of efficiency, lifespan, and cost. A solar energy professional can guide you on the number of panels you’ll need based on your energy assessment.
In the UK, there are several types of EV chargers, ranging from slow (3kW) to rapid (50kW+). For home use, a 7kW charger is often adequate, providing a full charge in 3-5 hours. Ensure compatibility between your vehicle and the charger.
The solar inverter converts the direct current (DC) produced by the solar panels into alternating current (AC) which can be used by the EV charger. Ensure the inverter is compatible with both the panels and the charger.
On days when the sun isn’t shining, a battery storage solution can be a saviour. Batteries store excess solar energy, allowing for EV charging during the night or cloudy days. Products like Tesla’s Powerwall have gained popularity in the UK for such purposes.
It’s recommended to hire a certified professional for the installation. This ensures safety standards are met and maximises the efficiency of the combined system. In the UK, the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) certifies solar and EV charging installers. Opting for an MCS-certified installer can also grant you access to certain government incentives.
Modern solar panel systems often come with monitoring tools that allow homeowners to track energy production and consumption. Regular maintenance ensures your system operates efficiently. Clean the panels periodically to remove dirt and check the system’s wiring annually for safety.
The combination of solar energy and electric vehicles presents a sustainable solution for the future. As the UK government pushes towards a greener future, with aims to phase out petrol and diesel vehicles, there’s never been a better time to invest in this synergy. By understanding the benefits and steps involved in setting up a combined solar and EV charging system, homeowners can be part of the change, leading the charge (pun intended) towards a cleaner and more sustainable future.
Remember, while the initial setup may require an investment, the long-term benefits in cost savings, environmental impact, and energy independence make it a worthy endeavour. So, why not let the sun power your drive?
Checkout some of our other posts:
Will solar panels charge my car?
How Many Solar Panels Do I Need to Run My Home?
