Electric vehicles are a huge time and money saver…
If utilized properly.
The true benefits of EV ownership typically come from charging at home. While this does add to the day to day efficiency of using an electric car, many still feel the costs of at home charging don’t make a significant difference in costs when compared to paying for gas prices.
So it makes sense why many homeowners out here on the Central Coast have asked us: “Can I charge my electric car with solar energy from my home?”
In short, the answer is, yes. As a matter of fact, it is one of the smartest ways to use renewable power. With the right setup, your solar panels can generate clean energy during the day that you can use to power both your home and your car.
How It Works
When sunlight hits your solar panels, they produce electricity that can be used throughout your home. That same energy can also charge your electric vehicle. The basic setup looks like this:
- Solar panels on your roof capture sunlight and produce direct current (DC) electricity.
- An inverter converts that DC electricity into alternating current (AC) power that your home and EV charger can use.
- A Level 2 EV charger uses a 240 volt outlet and provides faster charging, usually completing a charge in just a few hours.
- An optional home battery can store solar power during the day so you can charge your car at night using your own energy.
Once everything is connected, your roof becomes a clean energy station right at home.
Why It Makes Sense on the Central Coast
Out here on the Central Coast, we are known for the sunshine. That consistent sunlight gives local homeowners an ideal environment for producing renewable energy. By using that energy to charge your electric vehicle, you can reduce or even eliminate your reliance on the grid.
Charging directly from the grid can still be expensive, especially during peak rate hours. With solar, you can produce power during the day and use it at no additional cost. This helps protect you from future rate increases and lets you drive using clean, renewable energy produced on your own property.
What to Consider Before Getting Started
System Size
Your solar system should be large enough to handle both your household electricity and the energy needed to charge your car. If you already have a system, an installer can calculate whether it meets your needs or if an upgrade is recommended.
Charging Habits
When you charge your vehicle affects how you use your solar power. If you charge during the day, your car can use energy directly from the panels. If you charge mostly at night, adding a battery can help you store daytime energy for evening use.
Electrical Setup
A Level 2 charger requires a 240 volt circuit. One of our reputable installers at A.M. Sun Solar + Roofing can determine if your home’s electrical panel has the capacity or if it needs small upgrades to support charging.
Incentives and Rebates
California often offers rebates for both solar systems and electric vehicle chargers. Combining the two can make your investment even more affordable.
The Bottom Line
Yes, you can charge your electric car with solar panels, and it makes perfect sense to do so. By producing your own clean energy, you can power your home and your vehicle at the same time while reducing your utility costs.
A.M. Sun Solar + Roofing has helped many homeowners in the Central Coast region install solar systems that work seamlessly with electric vehicle charging. We start by looking at your current electricity use and your driving habits, then design a system that fits your exact needs.
If you would like to see how this could work for your home, contact A.M. Sun Solar + Roofing for a free consultation. We can help you create a system that lets you drive using energy from the sun.
Why Choose A.M. Sun Solar + Roofing?
At A.M. Sun Solar + Roofing, we pride ourselves on providing expert solar and roofing installations and top-tier service at the best pricing in SLO County. We’re committed to delivering the highest-quality service while keeping your budget in mind.
Contact A.M. Sun Solar + Roofing today to schedule your roofing consultation today. Serving San Luis Obispo County and the surrounding areas, we are here to help you protect your home year-round.
Connect with us today at hello@amsunsolar.com, (805) 772-6786, or fill out the form below to get a FREE ESTIMATE with one of our friendly solar & roofing experts.