How do solar EV chargers work?

The ultimate dream for many electric car owners is to power their vehicles on sunshine. Here’s how electric vehicle home charging with solar PV works.

Once the solar panels have been installed, solar panels absorb photons from ultraviolet (UV) light (sunlight) and use this to generate electricity.

Electric,Car,Charger,At,Home, ,Charging,Ev,With,Lights
Electric,Car,Plugged,In,To,Charge,Outside,Home,With,Power

Solar-compatible EV chargers have solar integration. They work by integrating with solar panels to harness the sun’s power. Home EV chargers use the energy generated by solar panels to charge electric vehicles, reducing your reliance on the national grid power.

Excess solar energy can also be stored in batteries for later use, providing an environmentally friendly and cost-effective solution for powering electric vehicles. A battery means that your solar-compatible EV charger can work even when the sun isn’t shining, providing a reliable and sustainable energy source for electric vehicle owners.

Benefits of installing an EV charging point 

Reduced Energy Costs

By generating your own electricity from the sun and storing it in batteries, you can reduce your reliance on the grid for power, this can result in lower energy costs, especially during peak hours when electricity prices are higher.

Carbon Footprint Reduction

Solar energy is clean and renewable, meaning it produces no greenhouse gas emissions. By installing a solar PV system and using it to power your home and charge your EV, you can reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Energy Independence

By generating your own electricity and storing it in batteries, you can become less reliant on the grid for power. This means you are less vulnerable to power outages and can have greater energy independence.

Convenience

With a combined residential EV charging and solar PV system with batteries, you can charge your EV at home using clean, renewable energy. This is much more convenient than having to go to a public charging station and can save you time and money.

Increased Home Value

A combined residential EV charging and solar panel system with batteries can increase the value of your home, and make it more saleable.

Solar Magic

Get a Quote Today

We will send you a Free, No obligation quote via email, bespoke to your families needs.

Get a Quote

EV Charging Q&A's

How does EV charging work?

Like a mobile phone, all electric vehicles need to be charged to enable them to run. EV chargers provide the ability to charge your vehicle by pulling an electric current to the vehicle up to 4 times faster than your standard plug sockets.

What does KW mean?

Kilowatt. This is used when talking about the output speed of EV chargers.

Do I need planning permission or any consent to have an EV charger installed?

You will not require planning permission however, you will need to notify your Distribution Network Operator (DNO) when you have an electric vehicle (EV) charger fitted at your home. The DNO is responsible for managing the local electricity distribution network and ensuring its stability and safety.  We will do this on your behalf.

By notifying the DNO, they can consider the increased demand on the local electrical infrastructure due to the EV charger. This helps them plan and manage the network effectively, ensuring that it can accommodate the additional load without causing any issues.

Notifying the DNO is a proactive step to ensure the safe and efficient operation of your EV charger and to avoid any potential strain on the local electricity network.

How long will it take for a charger to be fitted?

It will take approximately half a day to fit the charger.

What is included with the installation?

Installation includes a quality EV unit of your choosing, and a separate consumer unit with surge protection to meet current regulations.  Full test and inspection and appropriate certification.

How much will my EV charger cost to run?

The cost to run an EV charger will depend on several factors, including the electricity rate in your area, the power rating of the charger, and the amount of time you spend charging your vehicle.

Here are some steps to assist you with estimating the cost:

  1. Determine the power rating of your EV charger: The power rating is usually measured in kilowatts (kW) and can vary depending on the charger model. Common power ratings range from 3.7 kW to 22 kW or higher.
  2. Check your electricity rate: Contact your electricity provider or review your energy bill to find the cost per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for your specific tariff. This rate can vary based on your location, time of day, and type of tariff (e.g., fixed, variable, or time-of-use).
  3. Calculate the charging time: Estimate the average hours per day or week that you will use the EV charger. Multiply this by the power rating to determine the total kilowatt-hours consumed during that period.
  4. Calculate the cost: Multiply the total kilowatt-hours by the electricity rate per kWh to calculate the approximate cost of running your EV charger for that period.

Keep in mind that electricity rates can differ between peak and off-peak hours, so it’s worth considering any time-of-use or flexible tariffs that may be available in your area. Additionally, other factors such as energy efficiency and charger utilisation can affect the overall cost.

How do I keep my charger secure?

Install your EV charger in a well-lit and visible area on your property. This can discourage potential theft or vandalism.

Ensure that your EV charger is securely mounted to a solid structure, such as a wall or post. This makes it more difficult for thieves to remove the charger.

Secure the cable: Some EV chargers have built-in cable locks or mechanisms to secure the charging cable. Make sure to use these features to prevent the theft of the cable.

Consider using EV chargers with smart charging capabilities. These features allow you to monitor and control charging remotely, receive notifications, and track charging activity.

Regularly check for software updates: Keep your EV charger’s firmware and software up to date. This helps address any security vulnerabilities and ensures you have the latest security features.

Consider fitting a lockable enclosure around your charger.

Does the charger come with a warranty?

 Yes, and we will ensure that the warranty documentation is completed and registered.

Sign up to our newsletter

Be first in line to hear about our promotions and latest news, simply enter your email address in the box and click ‘Sign Up’. You can unsubscribe at any time.