While solar energy has become increasingly popular for powering homes and businesses in the past decade, it’s now turn for the electric vehicles, too! Electric vehicles have been gaining widespread popularity due to their positive environmental and climate change impacts, as well as the ability to increase energy independence for everyday people. Let’s explore how solar energy can power electric vehicles.

At-home solar panels

Just like your phone, smart watch, laptop and other accessories, electric vehicles require regular charging. While yes, electric vehicles have the capability of being charged through traditional power sources (coal, gas), they stay true to their environmentally friendly appeal by being charged with solar energy. Because after all, solar energy is a renewable energy source that doesn’t contribute to greenhouse gases. So the most environmentally-friendly way to charge an electric vehicle, is through the use of solar panels. Whether the panels are installed on a rooftop or a carport, electric vehicle owners are able to enjoy charging their car right from home.

Solar-powered charging stations

With government and private company infrastructure on the rise, solar-powered charging stations are becoming convenient and popular for electric vehicle owners, giving them the ability to charge on the go. With solar panels and a battery storage system, these stations use solar panels to generate electricity, which is then stored in batteries. Electric vehicles simply plug into the charging station, using the stored energy to recharge the vehicle.

Solar-powered electric vehicles and the future

Solar technology is constantly improving, so we can expect to see more and more automotive brands producing electric vehicles, just like Tesla (arguably the most well-known). In fact, there’s already automotive companies incorporating solar panels into the vehicles themselves, powering smaller systems like air conditioning. We’re sure there will be a time that solar panels are used to directly power a vehicle’s motor!

How to get your home setup for a charging an electric vehicle

The most convenient, and cheaper, way to charge your electric vehicle will always be from home. Look for a solar panel and battery storage solution that can accommodate Level 2 charging. Level 2 charging allows a drained battery to completely charge in as little as four hours.

Need help?

Give us a call on 1300 4 SOLAR. We’re happy to help you get set up for the future!