Can You Charge An EV With Solar?

With the growing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs), many businesses and individuals in the Chicagoland area are seeking sustainable ways to power their rides. As we at Chicago EV proudly provide top-notch commercial EV charger installations through our preferred partnership with Enel X, a question we frequently encounter is: “Can you charge an EV with solar energy?” The answer is a resounding yes! Let’s explore how it works and why it might be the perfect solution for you.

Solar energy, in essence, is the power derived directly from the sun. This colossal star, located at the heart of our solar system, emits an astronomical amount of energy every second. Even though only a fraction of that energy reaches the Earth, it’s more than enough to meet the entire world’s energy demands.

The principle behind harnessing this energy is the photovoltaic effect. When sunlight (comprised of photons) hits a solar cell—usually made from silicon—it knocks electrons loose from their atoms. As these electrons move through the cell, they generate an electric current. This electricity can then be used immediately or stored in batteries for later use.

As a clean and renewable energy source, solar power stands in stark contrast to fossil fuels, which release carbon emissions and other pollutants.

The sun, a vast and continuous source of energy, delivers more power to Earth daily than humanity uses in a year. Tapping into this abundant energy to fuel electric vehicles is an innovative leap towards sustainability.

This solar magic is captured using solar panels, primarily composed of silicon cells. When these cells are hit by sunlight, they experience the photovoltaic effect. In simpler terms, photons from the sun excite the panel’s electrons, producing an electric current. This generated electricity is either used immediately or stored for future needs.

Modern solar panels have achieved impressive efficiencies, converting around 15-20% of received sunlight into electricity. In regions like Chicago, with variable sunlight due to changing seasons and weather, optimal panel positioning is vital. Typically, south-facing installations with a strategic tilt ensure maximum sunlight capture. Some advanced setups even track the sun’s movement, optimizing exposure throughout the day.

In essence, by converting sunlight into electricity, we merge nature’s boundless power with cutting-edge technology, paving the way for a sustainable transportation future.

One of the beautiful aspects of solar-powered EV charging is its versatility. Irrespective of the make or model of the electric vehicle, the energy derived from the sun can be used to charge it. Whether you own a Tesla, Nissan Leaf, Chevrolet Bolt, or any other EV, the electric current produced by solar panels is converted into a form compatible with the vehicle’s battery.

It’s essential, however, to ensure that the EV charging station—like those from Enel X, which we proudly install—is appropriately rated for your vehicle’s charging specifications. While the energy source (solar) remains consistent, the rate at which different vehicles charge and the connectors they use might vary.

Thankfully, most modern solar EV charging stations are equipped to accommodate a broad range of electric vehicles, making the transition seamless for EV owners.