Can Solar Power Your EV? The Truth About Charging Your Car from the Sun

The short answer is yes and it’s not just possible, it’s one of the smartest energy moves you can make.

How Solar EV Charging Works

A solar-powered EV charging setup uses the electricity generated from your rooftop solar panels to charge your car. Instead of drawing energy from the grid, you’re using free, renewable energy from the sun.

When sunlight hits your solar panels, it creates DC electricity, which is converted to AC via your inverter. That power is then routed to your home’s circuits — including your EV charger. If your panels generate more electricity than you use, the excess can either charge your car or be stored in a home battery system.

The Benefits of Solar-Powered EV Charging

1. Lower Energy Bills: Charging an EV from solar drastically reduces your energy costs. Even if you only use partial solar power during the day, you’ll still save significantly over time especially during peak sunlight months.

2. Energy Independence: Using solar means you rely less on the grid. With energy prices fluctuating and supply under strain, having your own renewable source gives you long-term stability and independence.

3. Sustainable Living: Pairing solar with an EV means your vehicle truly becomes zero-emission. You’re not just cutting petrol use, you’re cutting your carbon footprint right at home.

4. Future-Proofing Your Home: More UK homes are integrating solar and EV tech, and properties with renewable systems installed often see higher resale values.

⚡ What You’ll Need

To make solar charging work efficiently, you’ll need:

• A modern solar PV system (typically 8–12 panels for effective daily generation)
• A compatible smart EV charger that can prioritise solar energy use
• Optional battery storage to keep energy for nighttime charging

Smart chargers, like those installed by JJB Electrical, can automatically adjust charging speeds based on how much solar power you’re generating, maximising savings.

🕓 When Solar Isn’t Enough

Of course, the UK isn’t always sunny. During shorter winter days, you might still need to draw power from the grid. That’s where smart hybrid systems shine, automatically switching between solar and grid power to keep your car fully charged without hassle.

💡 Why Professional Installation Is Essential

Solar integration with EV chargers requires careful electrical design. It’s crucial that both systems communicate correctly and that your home wiring can handle the combined load. A qualified electrician ensures your installation meets all safety regulations and performs efficiently.

At JJB Electrical, we specialise in EV charger installations and electrical upgrades that work seamlessly with solar systems. Even if you don’t have solar yet, we can future-proof your setup so you’re ready to connect one later.

🔧 Thinking of Installing Both?

If you’re planning a home rewire or fuse board upgrade, it’s the perfect time to prepare for both solar and EV charging. By designing your electrical system with renewable energy in mind, you’ll save time, money, and avoid needing additional upgrades later.

🌞 The Future is Renewable

Combining solar power and electric vehicles is one of the smartest ways UK homeowners can take control of their energy future. It’s clean, efficient, and pays off long-term - both financially and environmentally.

At JJB Electrical Ltd, we’re proud to help homeowners transition into greener energy solutions safely and professionally. From EV charger installations to solar-ready wiring, our qualified team ensures your setup works perfectly, now and in the future.

📞 Ready to make your charging eco-friendly?

Call 01992 276087 or visit www.jjb-electrical.com to schedule your consultation today.
JJB Electrical Ltd - powering Hertfordshire and Essex, the smart and sustainable way.