Car manufacturers are creating electric vehicles (EVs) as part of their efforts to promote environmental sustainability. Environmentally conscious EV owners can improve the eco-friendliness of their cars by charging them using solar. If you are considering shifting to solar for your EV, it helps to know how an solar EV charger work. Here are a few different options to look at when purchasing a charger for your home:

How to Charge Your EV Using a Solar Charger

Installing a solar system allows you to charge your EV using solar power, reducing your reliance on electricity. The number of solar panels you need for EV charging depends on the sunlight your home gets. Installers also consider your fuel usage, the number of vehicles that need charging, and fuel efficiency. Your solar provider can recommend the best solar system size for EV charging. 

A solar EV charger draws power from the distribution board or the battery that stores power generated by your solar system. The charger converts the solar energy to electricity, which flows to your EV via the charging cable. 

Types of Chargers Used for Solar EV Charging

If you already have a regular EV charger, you do not need to replace it if you shift to solar. Most solar EV charging systems use a photovoltaic (PV) inverter to convert solar energy into electricity. With a PV inverter, you can use your regular EV charger for solar charging. There are three types of EV chargers: levels 1, 2, and 3. 

Level 1 EV chargers are the simplest options, which often come with the vehicle. The chargers are compatible with 10A and 15A wall sockets and have a charging rate of 2.2kW to 3.5kW per hour. A level 1 charger is ideal for solar charging if you do not use your EV often. This charger is compatible with a small 6kW solar power system. 

Level 2 chargers are ideal for solar charging with a larger solar system with a charging rate of 10kW or more. This type of charger is suitable if you drive longer distances as it allows you to charge your vehicle at the maximum charge rate. Consider investing in a smart EV charger that can adjust the charging rate to your solar generation rate for better charging. 

EV Solar Charging at Night

You most likely charge your vehicle overnight if you are away from home during the day. It helps to invest in a battery storage system to charge your EV using solar at night. With a battery, you can store the power your solar system generates during the day and use it later. This power storage solution provides a reliable power supply even when solar energy production is limited. 

Invest in a Quality Solar EV Charger

Solar EV charging is a sustainable solution that reduces your dependence on electricity, which can result in energy savings. The efficiency of your solar EV charging system depends on your charger’s compatibility with your solar system and your vehicle’s charging demand. Consult a solar charging system provider for recommendations on the best solar EV charger.