If you’ve ever wondered whether your solar panels could double up as a fuel source for your electric car (EV), you’re not alone. Many UK homeowners are exploring solar-powered EV charging—but there’s more to it than just plugging in. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the practicalities, limitations, and solutions so you can make the most of your solar energy.
Yes—solar panels can power an electric car. But there’s a catch: timing matters. Solar panels generate electricity during the day, while most EV owners charge their cars in the evening or overnight. Without a way to store that energy, you’ll end up using the grid for much of your charging instead of your own solar power.
Think of it this way: solar panels are like a daytime-only fuel pump. To fill your car when the sun isn’t shining, you need a battery storage system at home—or you’ll rely on grid electricity.
If you already have solar panels, you can start charging your EV—but it might not be efficient. Here’s why:
Daily solar production varies: On a sunny day, a 4kW system can produce around 16 kWh, roughly enough for 40–50 miles of EV range. Cloudy days reduce this significantly.
Typical EV battery size: Most UK EVs have 40–60 kWh batteries. That means a full daytime solar charge won’t fully top up a larger battery.
Evening charging: If you plug in at night, without a storage battery, the energy comes from the grid, not your solar panels.
Tip: You can still benefit by scheduling daytime charging if your car can charge during daylight, or by investing in a solar-compatible EV charger and home battery.
It depends on your setup and driving habits.
Small daily commute (20–30 miles): A modest solar system might cover most of your daily charge.
Longer drives: You’ll likely need grid top-ups or a larger solar + battery system.
Energy self-consumption: Without battery storage, most of your solar power will go into daytime home usage (lighting, appliances) rather than your EV.
Here’s a rough guide for UK homeowners:
| Daily EV use | Energy needed | Solar panels required (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 20 miles | 6 kWh | 2–3 panels (250–300W each) |
| 40 miles | 12 kWh | 4–6 panels |
| 60 miles | 18 kWh | 6–8 panels |
⚠ Remember: these are estimates. Actual output depends on roof orientation, shading, and season. Winter months produce less, so factor in a buffer.
Yes, with home battery storage. Systems like Tesla Powerwall, myenergi Zappi, Hypervolt, Wallbox Pulsar Plus, Easee, and Indra V4 let you store excess solar energy during the day to charge your EV at night.
Solar prioritisation: Many chargers detect solar availability and use it first.
Dynamic load management: Some systems balance home energy use and EV charging automatically.
Smart scheduling: Charge your EV when solar output peaks or electricity tariffs are lowest.
Without a battery: you’re limited to daytime charging or grid usage at night.
Not all chargers work seamlessly with solar. UK options include:
myenergi Zappi: Optimises solar excess for EV charging; UK-compliant modes.
Hypervolt Home Series: App-based scheduling with solar prioritisation.
Wallbox Pulsar Plus: Integrates with inverters for dynamic load management.
Easee: Solar-ready with CT clamps to detect PV generation.
Indra V4: Supports bidirectional charging and solar syncing under Ofgem rules.
Assess your daily mileage: Know your EV’s average daily energy needs.
Check your solar system size: Smaller systems may not cover full EV charges.
Consider battery storage: Essential for night-time charging using your solar.
Use smart charging: Schedule daytime charging or use solar prioritisation.
Monitor your energy: Track solar output and EV charging to optimise savings.
Without battery storage, most UK homeowners will still rely on grid electricity for evening charging. Adding storage:
Maximises self-consumption: Your solar energy powers your car and home.
Reduces bills: Less grid electricity means lower costs.
Supports grid stability: You’re helping balance demand during peak times.
Yes, solar panels can charge an electric car, but timing matters.
Evening charging without storage = grid electricity. Battery storage unlocks true solar EV charging.
System size matters: More panels or larger batteries = more solar energy for your EV.
Smart chargers help: They ensure you use solar power first and schedule efficiently.
Plan for seasons: UK solar output varies; winter months need extra consideration.
Switching to a solar-powered EV charger is about making your home smarter, your bills lower, and your energy cleaner. With the right combination of solar panels, battery storage, and smart charging, your EV can become a truly green ride.
Start your home’s greener journey today and see exactly how solar can power your electric car efficiently and sustainably.