Solar energy and electric vehicles are such a great combination which means that you are using a clean source of energy, free of fossil fuels

Because the power mix in most areas contains some power generated from fossil fuels, charging a vehicle from the power grid often involves using greenhouse gas-emitting sources.

That is why solar energy and electric vehicles are such a great combination. Powering an electric vehicle with solar energy means that you are using a clean source of energy, free of fossil fuels.

Solar panels on sloped roof of house on overcast day

Now, solar energy systems are more efficient than ever, many households have enough roof space to install a solar system that will power both the home and charge the vehicle.

If a home has enough space to power both depends on the solar equipment efficiency, size of the south-facing roof, shading on the panels, the energy required to charge the electric vehicle, and home energy use.

If you don’t have quite enough space for a properly sized solar system, determine if you have inefficient appliances. Even just a leaky, energy-hungry refrigerator can drive up your bills.

To size the solar system for both an electric car and household use, you will need a year or two of electrical usage data for your home, how many miles you plan to drive, and the mileage rating of the electric vehicle.

Read more: PV Buzz