Did you know that solar power installations in the United States doubled over the past years? This showcases how more people are turning to environment-friendly energy sources.
Regardless of how you use solar chargers, know that it’s a better source of energy. That’s why when you pair it with an electric vehicle, you’ll benefit the most when you use solar energy. But if you haven’t tried it before, you won’t know how beneficial it is for you.
Don’t dismiss solar energy yet.
With this guide, you’ll learn about solar charger benefits. Read on and find out how this cleaner power alternative benefits your car.
1. It Saves More Time, Money, and Hassle
When buying a solar energy system, you have the option to get an inverter with an integrated charger for your EVs. With this, you won’t need to buy a Level 2 EV charger. This also lets you avoid getting a licensed electrician and getting the necessary installation materials.
In most cases, you’ll end up saving over $1,600 if you buy this setup. This is an especially important choice if you’re planning to buy an EV. If you get an inverter without considering the possibility of getting an EV, you risk incurring these costs.
But if you choose to use solar energy for your electric vehicle, you’ll save around 50% in power costs. It’s no secret that solar power produced by your solar energy system is less expensive compared to grid power. So, if you want to maximize your energy savings, using solar energy on an electric vehicle is a must.
2. Get Tax Credit Savings
When getting a solar energy system, you’re eligible for a 26% federal tax credit. This will drag your home power plant’s price down even more. This means you’ll get more savings on the money you use to charge your electric vehicle. Depending on your state and local policies, there may also be additional incentives.
One of the main requirements of becoming eligible for the tax credit is that your solar PV system’s installation date is between January 1, 2020, and December 31, 2020. With that, the sooner you get solar chargers for your home, the more likely it is for you to get more savings.
3. Solar Chargers Can Charge During the Cheapest Time
Some chargers will allow you to schedule vehicle charging using their companion apps. That means you have the means of charging your vehicles later at night. The rates during those times are more valuable since you have more surplus of credited solar energy during the day.
4. Faster Charging
Regardless of the time you use your solar charger, know that it’s faster than normal electric chargers. If it’s during the day, your solar panels are producing electricity. That means you can charge faster, with rates reaching up to 25% compared to traditional electric chargers.
5. Grid-Powered Cars Still use Fossil Fuels
When plugging your EV into the wall socket without using solar energy, you power it using the electrical grid. Depending on your utility, around 40%-60% of the power still comes from power plants. These use fossil fuels and other forms of non-renewable energy to operate.
The experience is comparable to driving a car powered by coal. In contrast, a car powered by sunshine sounds more radical. This means using your vehicle leaves a carbon-neutral footprint on the environment.
6. Low Maintenance Costs
One of the best facts about solar energy systems is that they boast low maintenance requirements. To maintain your solar power charging station, you must ensure their cleanliness. This often translates to cleaning it several times each year.
If you’re not sure how to do it, you can get a company to do it for you. This service often costs less than $50, so it won’t break your pocket. Also, most solar panel providers will give you 20-25 years of warranty for your system.
7. You Need Not Invest on a Big Solar Panel System
The good news is that charging an EV won’t need a large setup. You have the means of charging an EV while maintaining the power on your home appliances using a small solar panel array. That means you only need 10 solar panels, which won’t take a lot of space.
Considerations Before Buying Solar Chargers
With the advantages of solar energy out of the way, here are things you must consider before buying and installing an EV charging system:
1. Do You Control Your Electricity Supply?
If you’re a homeowner, you need not ask for permission to install your charging station. If you’re a condominium owner, you might have to ask the association. This can be troublesome, especially when you aren’t on agreeable terms with other owners.
For apartment owners, it might even be harder. First, you must have a reserved parking space or garage. After getting the landlord’s permission, you might also have limited power available.
2. Where Do You Place the Charging Station?
The charging station must be close enough to your car’s inlet for the connector. Ensure that you have a long cable that can reach the inlet. Make sure it won’t stretch since it can pose a safety risk in the future.
Take note, EVs have varying locations for their charging port. That’s why you must know the location of your charging port before installing the station. This saves you a lot of grief later on, especially when you have limited resources.
3. Does Your EV Charger Have Safety Certifications?
Electric vehicle charging is a new industry, so you’ll see lots of startups without safety certifications. That’s why you must ensure your choice of charger succeeded in various tests and have certifications.
Buy Solar Chargers Today!
These are the top reasons why solar chargers are great for your EVs. Use these if you’re thinking whether solar-powered EV chargers can help you.
Are you looking for a reputable company for your solar energy needs? If so, contact us today and let us work with you. You can get a free consultation if you’re planning to get a charging station.