Can I Use Solar Panels to Charge My Electric Car?
Portland Metro Electric
As electric vehicles (EVs) become more common, many Portland homeowners are looking for sustainable ways to power them. One question we often hear is: Can I charge my EV with solar panels? The answer is a resounding yes—and it can be both eco-friendly and cost-effective.
This guide explores how solar-powered EV charging works, how many solar panels you’ll need, and whether it’s a smart investment for your home.
How Solar Charging for EVs Works
Charging your electric vehicle with solar panels is essentially a two-part system:
Solar panels generate electricity from sunlight and feed it into your home’s electrical system.
Your EV charger uses that electricity to charge your car’s battery—either directly in real time or through stored energy if you use a battery backup.
Two Main Options:
Grid-Tied Solar System: Panels send power to your home and excess to the grid; your charger pulls energy as needed.
Off-Grid or Hybrid System with Battery Storage: Stores solar energy for use at night or during outages.
Most Portland-area homes use grid-tied solar, which is simpler and eligible for net metering.
How Many Solar Panels Do You Need to Charge an EV?
This depends on your driving habits and your EV’s efficiency.
- General Rule:
1 kWh = ~3 to 4 miles of EV range
Most EVs use ~30 kWh for every 100 miles
- If you drive 30 miles per day:
You’ll need about 9-11 kWh of electricity daily
That means you’ll need roughly 6-8 solar panels, depending on efficiency and sun exposure
Solar Panel Estimates for EV Charging
| Daily Commute (Miles) | kWh Needed per Day | Approx. Solar Panels Required |
|---|---|---|
| 20 | 6 – 7 kWh | 4 – 6 |
| 30 | 9 – 11 kWh | 6 – 8 |
| 50 | 15 – 18 kWh | 10 – 12 |
Is Solar EV Charging Cheaper Than Grid Power?
Yes—over the long term.
- Upfront Costs:
Solar system: $12,000 – $18,000 (before incentives)
EV charger: $500 – $800 + installation
- Long-Term Savings:
Charge your EV for free with sunlight
Protect against rising electricity rates
Earn credits through Oregon’s net metering programs
Federal and local incentives (like the 30% federal solar tax credit and Energy Trust of Oregon rebates) make solar more affordable than ever in 2025.
Best Solar Setups for EV Charging
If you’re planning solar specifically for EV use, consider:
- Pairing with a Level 2 EV charger for faster home charging
- Battery storage if you want to charge overnight using stored solar power
- Smart inverter systems to monitor energy use and solar output
Top-rated solar brands in 2025 include:
- Enphase
- Tesla Powerwall (for storage)
- SunPower
Final Thoughts: A Cleaner, Smarter Way to Drive
Combining solar panels with your EV charger is one of the most sustainable and cost-effective choices you can make as a homeowner. It reduces your carbon footprint, lowers your energy bills, and increases your home’s value.
Ready to go solar and charge your EV the smart way?
Contact us for a free consultation on solar and EV charger installation in Portland.
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FAQs About Charging EVs with Solar Power
Typically 6-12 panels, depending on your daily mileage and sun exposure.
Yes. While the initial cost is higher, solar reduces or eliminates long-term charging costs.
Only if you have battery storage. Otherwise, your system draws power from the grid after dark.
No. Any Level 2 charger works, but smart chargers and energy monitors improve efficiency.
Federal tax credits (30%), Energy Trust of Oregon rebates, and possible utility incentives.
For any other questions or to schedule an upgrade consultation, contact Portland Metro Electric. We’re here to ensure your electrical system is safe, efficient, and tailored to your needs.
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Ready to Restore Power or Upgrade Your Electrical?
Call us now, or fill out our contact form and one of our electrical experts will get in tough with you shorty. We will listen to your project needs or concerns and help guide you in the right direction. If the project is can be remotely estimated we can send you a personalized estimate within the next 24 hours.