The ideal combination of photovoltaics and electromobility: How to charge your electric car with self-generated solar power

Combining solar energy and electric mobility is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to be both environmentally conscious and cost-effective. With a rooftop photovoltaic system, you can use the generated electricity to charge your electric car practically for free. This combination of solar power and electric cars not only offers economic benefits but is also an important step toward a sustainable future. In this article, you'll learn how to charge your electric car with solar power and the advantages of this solution.

Why photovoltaics and electromobility are a perfect match

Using solar power to power electric vehicles is a smart way to reduce costs while also doing your bit for the environment. A photovoltaic system can largely protect you from rising electricity prices and reduce your dependence on external energy sources by using the generated electricity directly for your electric car.

Sustainability and environmental benefits

An electric vehicle powered by solar power is virtually emission-free. While conventional combustion engines rely on fossil fuels, an electric car uses a renewable energy source – the sun. By combining solar energy and electromobility, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and actively contribute to climate protection.

Cost savings through solar power

A key benefit of using solar power to charge electric cars is the potential to significantly reduce your electricity costs. Once your photovoltaic system is installed, there are no additional costs for charging your vehicle with solar power. Compared to the higher prices at public charging stations or grid power, solar power offers a significantly more cost-effective solution. The more you use the self-generated solar power, the faster the photovoltaic system will pay for itself.

How does charging electric cars with solar power work?

Charging an electric vehicle with solar power is straightforward and efficient. Your photovoltaic system produces electricity during the day, which is either fed directly into the home grid or stored in a battery storage system. This stored electricity can then be used to charge the vehicle via a wallbox, a special charging station for electric cars.

Direct charging during sunshine hours

The most efficient way to charge your electric car with solar power is direct charging during sunlight. If your photovoltaic system generates sufficient electricity during the day, you can feed it directly into your vehicle. This method is especially beneficial if you are at home or work during the day and have a charging station there.

Use of a battery storage system

With a battery storage system, you can store excess solar power and use it later, such as in the evening or at night when the sun isn't shining. This additional flexibility increases your self-consumption of solar power and reduces your dependence on the power grid.

Intelligent charging control

Modern wallboxes offer intelligent charging control, ensuring that your electric car is charged primarily when sufficient solar power is available. This technology optimizes the charging process, ensuring the best possible use of the power from your photovoltaic system and minimizing the need for grid power.

How much electricity does an electric car use?

The power consumption of an electric car varies depending on the model, but averages around 15 to 20 kWh per 100 kilometers. If you drive approximately 15,000 kilometers annually, you'll need between 2,250 and 3,000 kWh of electricity per year. A typical photovoltaic system with an output of 5 to 10 kWp can easily cover this power demand, allowing you to charge your electric car almost entirely with self-generated solar power.

Tips for the optimal combination of photovoltaics and electromobility

• Properly dimension your photovoltaic system: Make sure your photovoltaic system is large enough to cover the electricity needs of both your household and your electric car. Also, consider that demand may be higher on longer journeys.

• Use battery storage: A battery storage system can increase your self-consumption of solar energy by storing excess electricity, which can later be used to charge your electric car.

• Smart charging systems: By using smart wallboxes, you can control the charging process so that your electric car is charged preferentially with solar power. This way, you avoid unnecessary electricity consumption from the grid and optimize your solar system for maximum efficiency.

Conclusion: The perfect solution for sustainability and savings

Combining photovoltaics and electromobility is one of the best ways to be mobile in an environmentally friendly and cost-effective way. By charging your electric car with solar power, you significantly reduce your operating costs and actively contribute to reducing CO₂ emissions.

Enertech GmbH will help you find the optimal photovoltaic system for your needs, allowing you to efficiently charge your electric car with solar power. Benefit from our expertise and take the step toward a sustainable and independent future. Request a free quote today!