BrightGridAn electric vehicle can be one of the largest flexible electricity loads in a home. When the vehicle is parked during daylight hours, solar generation can potentially be used directly for charging.
Direct solar charging
A compatible charger can use available solar generation to charge the vehicle. Charging power may change as solar output changes.
Solar plus grid charging
Some systems can combine solar generation with grid electricity when the driver wants faster charging than the available solar output can provide.
Should the battery charge the car?
Routing solar through a home battery before charging the EV introduces additional conversion steps. Direct solar charging can be more efficient when the car is available and sufficient solar generation exists.
Tariffs can change the best strategy
A cheap overnight EV tariff can sometimes make grid charging financially attractive even when solar panels are installed.
Smart charging is about timing
The best charging strategy considers solar generation, vehicle availability, battery state of charge and electricity prices together.
Build a solar EV charging system
Combine solar generation, smart charging and battery storage around your driving pattern.
Explore EV ChargingFrequently asked questions
Can I charge my EV directly from solar panels?
Yes. A compatible smart EV charger can use surplus solar generation.
Is solar charging cheaper than overnight charging?
It depends on the value of exported solar and the electricity tariff available for overnight charging.
Does solar EV charging require a battery?
No. An EV can use surplus solar directly without a home battery.
Can an EV charger use both solar and grid electricity?
Some smart charging systems can combine solar and grid electricity to provide more consistent charging power.
Isabelle Grant
EV Energy Systems Consultant at BrightGrid Energy
