In this corner of the internet, we’re all about saving the planet and saving money, which is why we want to show you how you can use solar power for free motoring with EV chargers.
Solar panels aren’t just good for powering your home and business, they can also power your car for free. Yes, you heard it right!
By integrating an electric vehicle (EV) charger with your solar PV system, you can pave the way for emission-free driving while saving money and reducing your carbon footprint.
Let us explain…
The Power Couple: Solar PV Installations and EV Chargers
Harnessing Spare Power
Solar PV installations have long been championed as a clean energy solution, utilising sunlight to generate electricity. However, during peak sunlight hours, your solar panels may produce more power than your household requires.
This surplus energy often goes unused, but with an EV charger, you can channel it into your electric vehicle, effectively turning your car into a mobile battery storage unit.
Free Charging, Free Motoring
With an EV charger connected to your solar PV system, you can enjoy free charging and, consequently, free motoring. No more worrying about fluctuating fuel prices or emissions; instead, enjoy the satisfaction of quite literally being powered by sunshine.
Benefits Galore
Financial Savings
In the UK, where fuel prices continue to soar, the economic benefits of solar-powered EV charging are undeniable. According to recent studies, EV owners can save hundreds of pounds annually by switching to solar charging, with some estimates suggesting savings of up to £1,000 per year.
Environmental Impact
Beyond financial savings, the environmental benefits are incredible. By utilising solar power to charge your EV, you significantly reduce your carbon footprint compared to traditional fossil fuel vehicles.
In fact, studies show that EVs charged with solar energy can emit up to 80% less carbon dioxide over their lifetime, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier planet.
Energy Independence
With solar PV installations and EV chargers, homeowners can achieve a greater degree of energy independence. No longer reliant on external energy sources, you become the master of your energy destiny, generating and utilising clean power right from your own roof.
Facts and Figures
Solar PV Growth
The UK has experienced a significant surge in solar PV installations in recent years, with capacity reaching over 13 gigawatts by the end of 2021.
This growth is due to falling installation costs and government incentives such as the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), which rewards homeowners for exporting surplus solar energy to the grid.
EV Adoption
Similarly, electric vehicles in the UK have also been on the rise, fueled by government initiatives like grants for EV purchases and the expansion of charging points. As of 2023, over half a million EVs were registered in the UK, marking a milestone in the transition to sustainable transportation.
Leveraging Battery Storage
For those seeking to maximise their energy efficiency and savings, integrating battery storage with your solar PV and EV charging setup is a game-changer.
By storing excess solar energy during the day, homeowners can tap into their battery reserves for nighttime charging, taking advantage of cheaper off-peak tariffs offered by energy providers like Octopus and ScottishPower.
By harnessing the power of the sun to fuel our vehicles, we not only save money and reduce emissions but also pave the way for a cleaner, brighter future. So why wait? Take the leap into the future of motoring, where every mile driven is powered by the limitless energy of the sun.
To find out more, or get a free quote, get in touch on info@mjwallace.co.uk or 0800 046 6020
Or, use our online free quoting tool, here.
Sources:
- Solar PV Growth in the UK:
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- Source: Solar Energy UK – Solar in the UK
- Additional source: UK Government, Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) – Solar Photovoltaics Deployment
- EV Adoption in the UK:
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- Source: Next Green Car – Electric Car Registrations Surge
- Additional source: UK Government, Office for Zero Emission Vehicles – Electric Vehicle Grants
- Financial Savings with Solar-Powered EV Charging:
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- Source: Solar Trade Association – Solar and Storage Opportunities
- Additional source: Octopus Energy – Octopus Agile Tariff
- Environmental Impact of EVs Charged with Solar Energy:
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- Source: Carbon Trust – Electric Vehicles and Renewables
- Additional source: Energy Saving Trust – Electric Vehicles and Emissions