What Are They?
Solar Powered EV Charging Systems are a combination of solar modules (panels), an inverter, an EV charging station, and optionally battery storage and a connection to The Grid.
These systems allow the user to collect solar energy and convert it into power that is used to charge an electric vehicle. Depending on the design and components, these systems may also be set up with battery storage or be used to draw from or “sell back” power to the Grid.
Benefits
There are several benefits to using Solar Powered EV Charging Systems.
- They can offset or eliminate the cost of using the vehicle (paying for fuel).
- They can charge the electric vehicle during a grid outage OR in Off-Grid situations, with the use of battery storage
- They can eliminate fossil fuel consumption.
- They can help offset the cost of home energy use when connected to the Household Load, and are using battery storage.
- They can sell excess energy to The Grid when set up accordingly in a grid-tied environment.
What Else Should I Know?
Using a Solar Powered EV Charging System will require at least one solar module, an inverter, and the EV charging station.
The charging needs will determine the type, size, storage capacity, and any other necessary components.
When set up accordingly, the inverter can channel the solar power to the EV charging station, battery storage, household loads, and The Grid. The inverter can be configured for limited or zero grid export for relevant applications, in certain cases, eliminating the need for an interconnection agreement.
The charging station is where the power is supplied to the vehicle, and it dynamically controls the charging load. These stations can be set up for “Solar Only,” “Solar+Grid,” or “Boost Limited Supply.”
Battery storage is optional for an EV Charging System, but depending on the situation, they can be very advantageous. Batteries allow the system to store excess solar energy so that it can be used later. This is extremely useful and allows charging of the vehicle in an off-grid or down-grid (or any other) situation.
Battery storage options are available that can hold between 45-190 miles of range. If more is needed, contact our team for a custom design.
Energy that is stored in the batteries will flow back through the inverter to the EV Charger. That power may also be directed to the home’s electrical panel.
Any excess energy directed back to the Grid will help offset household loads. With a battery storage setup, the Solar Powered EV Charging System can backup the home AND provide EV charging capabilities in off-grid or grid-tied applications.
If the system is grid-tied, this also allows the user to “sell back” their excess solar energy to the Grid. However, not all municipalities allow energy export. Check with your local energy authority for local guidelines. Systems may also be designed for zero export.
Please click on the image below to download a PDF of this infographic!
If you have any questions or would like more information about Solar Powered EV Charging Systems, please reach out to our team and we will be happy to help.
Give us a call or shoot us an email: 1.800.383.0195 or sales@solar-electric.com.
