The way we power our lives is changing – and fast. With the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and the rapid adoption of solar panels across Essex, Kent, Suffolk and the surrounding South East, more homeowners are realising they can drive on sunshine. Pairing your solar PV system with an EV charger means your car can run on clean, renewable energy generated for free, right from your roof.
At SolarTherm UK we’re helping households make this smart, sustainable connection, saving money, cutting emissions and achieving true energy independence.
How It Works
When your solar panels generate electricity throughout the day, that energy can do more than just power your home. With the right set up, it can also charge your electric car. At SolarTherm UK we can install a solar compatible EV charger at the same time as installing your solar panels. A solar compatible EV charger directs excess solar energy straight into your vehicle’s battery, reducing the need to draw from the National Grid.
The setup typically includes:
- Solar PV panels on your roof generating electricity from sunlight
- An inverter converting that electricity into usable power
- An EV charger which can intelligently prioritise solar energy when available
- An optional home battery system to store unused solar power for evening charging
This system allows you to use your own renewable energy instead of paying for expensive grid electricity. You can also use cheap EV tariffs to charge your solar battery overnight to save even more.
Why It’s a Smart Investment
Slash Your Running Costs
Charging your EV from the grid can cost around 25-30p per kWh, but using your own solar energy can reduce this to near zero. Over a year, that can mean hundreds of pounds in savings.
Boost Your Energy Independence
You’re not just generating power, you’re controlling how and when you use it. A solar EV charging setup helps you rely less on the grid, especially when paired with solar battery storage.
Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
Every mile driven on solar power is a mile driven without burning fossil fuels. For a typical driver, this can offset over a tonne of CO₂ per year.
Future Proof Your Home
As EV ownership continues to grow, homes equipped with solar and charging infrastructure are becoming increasingly desirable and valuable, often selling for up to 14% more than a comparable home without solar.
What You’ll Need
- A solar PV system – ideally a 3.6kW or higher for meaningful EV charging support
- A compatible EV charger – such as a smart solar-integrated model (SolarTherm UK can advise on the best options for your home)
- A qualified installer – an solar installer will understand how to connect your solar, charger and battery system safely and efficiently
Our expert team at SolarTherm UK are experts in designing systems that work seamlessly together to cover all your power needs. Whether you’re adding an EV charger to an existing solar array or installing both from scratch, our team will be with your every step of the way.
Charge Smart, Live Green
The shift to electric transport and home renewable energy isn’t just about saving money, it’s about taking back control of your energy future. By combining solar power with EV charging, you can enjoy clean mobility, lower bills and a more sustainable lifestyle, all from the comfort of your own home.
Ready to Power Your Car from the Sun?
Contact SolarTherm UK today for a free, no obligation quote and design, tailored to your property, usage and future energy needs. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice.
Your home. Your energy. Your future.
FAQs
Can I really charge my electric car directly from my solar panels?
Yes! When your panels generate electricity, that energy can be used to power your EV through a solar-compatible home charger. You can even prioritise charging your car with solar before drawing from the grid.
Do I need battery storage to charge my car from solar?
Not necessarily. You can charge your EV directly during the day when the sun is shining. However, adding a battery lets you store excess solar energy to charge your car at night or on cloudy days — maximising your savings.
How long will it take to charge my EV using solar power?
This depends on your system size, sunlight levels, and car battery capacity. A 7kW charger using solar energy can add roughly 20–30 miles of range per hour in good conditions.
Can I install a solar EV charger if I already have solar panels?
Absolutely. Many homeowners choose to retrofit a smart EV charger to their existing solar setup. Our team at SolarTherm UK can assess your system and recommend the best charger to integrate seamlessly.
Will this setup reduce my electricity bills?
Yes. Using your own solar energy to charge your car means you buy less power from the grid. Over time, this can lead to significant cost savings — especially if you drive regularly.
Is a solar-powered EV charging system worth the investment?
For most EV owners, yes. You’ll reduce your fuel costs, lower your carbon footprint, and increase your home’s value — all while contributing to a cleaner energy future.
