As Electric Vehicles (EVs) gain popularity, the automotive industry is undergoing a significant transformation. In the first five months of 2024, global EV sales grew by 20%, with China, the US and Europe leading the growth. This surge in demand has highlighted the urgent need for more EV charging infrastructure, as many regions struggle to keep up with the pace. In response, numerous solar companies are stepping up, providing diverse solar-powered charging solutions for homes and businesses.
This blog explains how to effectively harness solar energy for EV charging, helping EV owners make the most of this sustainable option.
Why Powering EVs with Solar is a Smart Move? 
Electric vehicles offer compelling advantages over traditional petrol-powered cars. Firstly, electricity is typically more cost-effective than petrol, resulting in lower running costs for daily commutes. EV owners also enjoy the convenience of charging at home or work, lessening their reliance on public charging stations, which can be limited in certain areas.
Moreover, many regions now offer rebates for solar installations, making it a smart move for homeowners and businesses to invest in solar systems. This naturally extends to installing solar EV chargers, allowing users to harness surplus energy from their solar setup to charge their EVs.
Solar-powered EV chargers are quick and efficient, outperforming other renewable sources like wind turbines in both power output and cost-effectiveness. By combining solar power and EV charging, users can maximise their clean energy use and long-term cost savings.
What are some EV charging methods?
| EV Charging Methods |
|---|
| Charging Method | Type | Charging Speed | Pros | Cons |
|---|
| Wall Outlet Charging | US: Level 1 (120V)
US: Level 2 (240V)
EU: Mode 1 (230V)
EU: Mode 2 (230V) | Level 1: 1-4 km/10 min
Level 2: 4-8 hrs (full charge)
Mode 1: 0.5-1 km/10 min
Mode 2: 1-2 km/10 min | - Low initial cost
- Simple to use
- Convenient for home charging | - Low charging speed
- Potential safety risk
- Not suitable for long-distance travel |
| AC EV Chargers | US: Level 2
EU: Mode 3 | Full charge in 4-8 hours
US: 3.6-12 kW
EU: 3.6-22 kW | - Faster charging speed
- Safer for household circuits
- Long-term savings (solar integration) | - Upfront costs
- Installation limitations |
| DC EV Chargers | US: Level 3
EU: Mode 4 | 80% charge in 20-40 minutes
US and EU: 50-350 kW | - Extremely fast charging
- Safer for high-power charging
- Long-term savings (commercial) | - High upfront costs
- Limited EV compatibility |
EV owners have several charging options available, each with its advantages and drawbacks. There are 3 main EV charging methods: wall outlet charging, Alternating Current (AC) EV chargers, and Direct Current (DC) EV Chargers.
Wall Outlet Charging
US Market
Wall Outlet Charging is categorised into Level 1 (120V) and Level 2 (240V) charging in the United States (US).
Level 1 charging, which uses a standard household outlet, provides a relatively slow charge. On average, it can add between 1 to 4 kilometres of range every 10 minutes. This means that achieving 100km of driving range could take several hours. As such, Level 1 charging may only be suitable for EV owners with minimal daily travel requirements, typically less than 100km.
Level 2 charging requires plugging the power outlet with either a NEMA 6-50 or NEMA 14-50 plug. It can provide around 4 to 8 hours from empty to full charge depending on the vehicle's battery capacity and the charger's output power.
EU Market
Wall outlet charging in the European Union (EU) market is categorised into Mode 1 and Mode 2 charging. Both modes utilise 230V standard household outlets.
Mode 1 EV charging uses a standard power outlet with a simple extension cord. It is characterised by its slow charging speed, providing approximately 0.5 to 1 km range every 10 minutes. Given the extended charging time associated with Mode 1, it is generally not a practical option for regular EV charging needs.
Mode 2 EV charging uses a standard socket outlet with an in-cable control box (ICCB). Its charging speed is slightly faster, typically providing 1 to 2 km of range every 10 minutes. Although Mode 2 charging is marginally faster than Mode 1 charging, it is still considerably slower than charging from a dedicated EV charger.
EV owners who frequently travel long distances should consider installing a dedicated EV charger to achieve longer driving ranges in shorter charging periods.
| Pros and Cons of Wall Outlet Charging |
|---|
| Pros | Cons |
|---|
- Low Initial Cost: This method requires little to no additional equipment, making it the most economical option. - Simple to use: This method uses plug-and-play usage and is extremely convenient for home charging.
| - Low Charging Speed: Level 1 charging can take 20 to 40+ hours for a full charge, depending on the vehicle's battery capacity. Even Level 2 can take 8-12 hours. - Potential safety risk: The high continuous load on standard outlets not designed for EV charging can lead to overheating or electrical faults.
|
AC EV Chargers
AC EV chargers charge the EV with AC with AC, where the onboard charger within the EV will convert the AC to DC. The AC EV Chargers are referred to as Level 2 chargers in the US and Mode 3 chargers in the EU. AC chargers generally provide power outputs ranging from 3.6kW to 12kW in the US and 3.6kW to 22kW in the EU.
| Pros and Cons of AC EV Chargers |
|---|
| Pros | Cons |
|---|
- Faster charging speed: AC Chargers have significantly faster charging speed than wall outlets. They typically provide a full charge in 4 to 8 hours, depending on the vehicle and charger capacity.
- Safer for household circuits: AC chargers are designed specifically for EV charging, which includes safety features to protect both the vehicle and home electrical system.
- Long-term savings: AC Chargers can be integrated with home or commercial solar systems, allowing owners to use surplus solar energy for charging, potentially reducing electricity costs to near zero.
| - Upfront costs: EV owners would need to invest in the EV charging infrastructure and assimilate it into their solar system. This requires certain installation and design fees.
- Installation limitations: Most EV chargers need to be installed by trained technicians and engineers. In addition, some living conditions, such as apartments, are unsuitable for installing EV chargers as they do not have a dedicated parking space.
|
DC EV Chargers
DC EV Chargers, also known as Level 3 chargers (US) or Mode 4 charging (EU), provide the fastest charging method by delivering power directly to the EV's battery. DC EV Chargers provide power outputs ranging from 50kW to 350kW, allowing fast charging.
| Pros and Cons of DC EV Chargers |
|---|
| Pros | Cons |
|---|
- Extremely fast charging: Most DC EV Chargers can charge up to 80% capacity in 20 to 40 minutes, making it ideal for long-distance travel.
- Safer for high-power charging: DC EV chargers are designed to handle high-power loads safely, reducing risks associated with rapid charging.
- Long-term savings: When combined with large-scale solar installations, DC EV Chargers can provide significant cost savings over time, especially for commercial applications.
| - Upfront costs: EV owners are required to invest a considerable amount to install a large solar system alongside the solar DC EV charger. Most installations require upgrades to the local electrical infrastructure, which will add to the cost.
- Limited compatibility: Not all EVs are compatible with fast charging. EV owners are advised to note the maximum charging speed of their EVs before deciding to install a DC EV Charger.
|
*note that Growatt's THOR EV Chargers are compatible with ALL EVs
Why invest in Solar EV Chargers?
Investing in solar EV Chargers offers a combination of financial, operational, and practical benefits that make it an attractive option for EV owners and businesses. The EV chargers can utilise 100% solar energy to power EVs, dynamically adjusting the charging rate based on the available solar output. This allows for optimal use of solar energy, potentially reducing reliance on grid electricity and lowering charging costs.
Convenience and Flexibility
One of the key benefits of installing a solar EV charger is its unparalleled convenience. For those who own a solar system, integrating solar EV chargers at home or on business premises allows for convenient overnight charging, eliminating the need to search for public charging stations. This convenience is particularly valuable for those with a busy schedule or limited access to public EV charging infrastructure.
Moreover, solar EV Chargers offer flexibility in charging times. Users can take advantage of off-peak hours to charge their vehicles, allowing them to benefit from lower electricity rates and reducing strain on the grid during peak demand periods.
Significant Cost Savings
The financial benefits of solar EV chargers are substantial. For those who own a solar system, charging directly at home or business premises is considerably cheaper than public charging stations. This approach can lead to significant long-term savings on fuel costs.
Additionally, many regions offer incentives for installing solar EV chargers, which can substantially reduce upfront installation costs. These incentives, combined with the ongoing savings from solar-powered charging, make the investment increasingly attractive from a financial perspective.
Future-proofing
As the EV market expands, investing in charging infrastructure has become a strategic move for both homeowners and businesses. For those who own a solar system, this foresight allows them to adapt quickly to the evolving automotive landscape. A case in point is a Growatt customer in the Czech Republic who enhanced his solar system by incorporating Growatt's THOR EV charger at his office premises. This decision has yielded dual benefits: significant cost savings through solar-powered EV charging and an increase in the property's market value due to the installed EV charging facilities. Such forward-thinking approaches demonstrate the tangible advantages of integrating EV charging solutions into existing solar energy systems.
Growatt's Smart EV Chargers: THOR 11/22AS-S/P/SE/PE and THOR 40DS-P/DD-P EV Chargers
Investing in a solar EV charger provides significant financial, practical, and operational benefits for electric vehicle owners. Retrofitting homes or businesses with a trusted EV charger ensures convenient and efficient charging on-premises. Growatt, a globally recognised brand, has a proven track record of delivering high-quality EV charging solutions to a diverse range of satisfied customers. Our THOR EV chargers are engineered to meet various charging requirements, accommodating different EV brands and environmental conditions, making it an ideal choice for sustainable vehicle charging.
THOR 11/22AS-S/P/SE/PE (Fast AC Charger)
THOR 11/22AS-S/P/SE/PE Solar EV Charger is a SMART AC EV charger with a fast charging speed of 2.5 to 7 hours to full charge on average (*speed may differ between different EV brands with different battery capacities). It can be easily integrated into existing or new solar PV systems, allowing users to charge their EVs with 100% renewable energy from surplus solar power made in the solar system.
| Functions of THOR 11/22AS-S/P/SE/PE
|
|---|
- Compatible with ALL EVs - Smart APP control & Scheduling - High Output Power: 11kW/22kW - IP65 Design: Suitable for Indoor and Outdoor Installations
- Multi-faceted Protection: Over-voltage, Under-voltage, Over-load, Short-circuit, Earth leakage, Over-temperature, and Lightning protections
- Convenience with a Tap: RFID card access
- Flexible communication: LAN, WiFi, and 4G connectivity
|
The THOR 11/22AS-S/P/SE/PE offers versatility with its option of either a socket or charging gun plug, catering to diverse user preferences. This advanced charger is compatible with all EV brands and delivers charging speeds at the highest commercial level. Its study design, suitable for both indoor and outdoor installations, ensures adaptability to various residential and commercial settings.
Safety is paramount in the THOR 11/22AS-S/P/SE/PE's design, incorporating comprehensive protection features against over-voltage,under-voltage, overload, short-circuit, earth leakage, over-temperature, and lightning. Furthermore, the integration of smart control functionality allows users to monitor and manage the charging process remotely. Its combination of versatility, performance, convenience, and advanced safety features makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a premium EV charging solution.
THOR 40DS-P/DD-P EV Chargers (Fast DC charger)
THOR 40DS-P/DD-P EV Charger is a high-performance charging solution designed for rapid EV charging, typically completing a full charge within 1-2 hours, depending on the vehicle's battery capacity. This DC charger is suited for integration with large-scale solar systems, efficiently utilising surplus solar power to deliver fast charging rates. It caters particularly well to users with high daily mileage requirements or frequent long-distance travel needs.
| Functions of THOR 40DS-P/DD-P EV Chargers
|
|---|
- Compatible with ALL EVs - Smart APP control & Scheduling - High Output Power: 40kW - IP56 Design: Suitable for both indoor and outdoor installations - Multi-faceted Protection: Over-voltage, Under-voltage, Over-load, Over-temperature, and Lightning protections - Convenience with a Tap: RFID card access
- Flexible communication: LAN, WiFi, and 4G connectivity
|
The THOR 40DS-P/DD-P EV Charger comes with Single CCS Type output or Dual CC Type outputs. It can charge all EV brands at the highest commercial level. Users requiring daily long-distance travel are a perfect fit for THOR 40DS-P/DD-P EV Charger, which can quickly charge your vehicle within 1.25 to 2.5 hours. It comes with SMART controls which allow users to customise their EV charging at their fingertips.
THOR EV Chargers: Innovative Modes for Efficient Charging
Growatt THOR EV Chargers offer a range of customisable working modes, providing users with flexible and efficient charging options for different residential and commercial scenarios.
Fast Mode
The fast mode is ideal for EV owners who require quick charging. In this mode, the EV is charged at maximum power, drawing energy from either the solar system or the grid. This ensures that the vehicle is ready for use in the shortest possible time.
Off-peak Mode
For cost-conscious users, the Off-Peak Mode automatically schedules charging during periods when electricity rates are lower. This intelligent feature helps to reduce electrical bills without compromising on charging efficiency.
PV Linkage Mode
The PV Linkage Mode is a standout feature for environmentally conscious users. It allows the EV to be charged exclusively with solar power, utilising surplus energy when it exceeds the system's minimum operating power. This mode includes two features:
| EV Charger Features |
|---|
| Manual Boost | Smart Boost |
|---|
| This feature is tailored for EV owners who wish to optimise charging during low-cost electricity periods while maintaining PV linkage. It allows users to initiate rapid charging when needed, whilst prioritising the use of solar power. The system intelligently balances between solar energy and grid electricity, ensuring efficient charging during off-peak hours. This approach maximises cost savings and solar energy usage, offering flexibility for immediate charging needs without compromising the benefits of solar integration. | This feature guarantees that the EV's battery reaches a specified capacity by a predetermined time. Users can set a target kWh using Growatt's monitoring platform, ShinePhone or ShineServer. If solar energy is insufficient, the system will supplement with grid power to meet the charging goal. |
Load Balancing
The Load Balancing feature monitors the incoming power to the house with the Current Transformer (CT) or Meter, the EV charger adjusts its charging power to prevent exceeding the minimum operating power. This ensures optimal energy distribution and prevents overloading.
Growatt Paving the way for EV Charging
Growatt's THOR EV chargers play a vital role in supporting the automotive industry's transition to electrification. With both AC and DC charging options designed for residential and commercial usage, these chargers offer adjustable charging speeds and multiple working modes, including a smart PV linkage mode for efficient and 100% solar-powered charging. This flexibility meets the diverse needs of EV owners while promoting sustainable energy use. For more information on Growatt's EV chargers and to book a free consultation, please contact our sales representatives today.
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