Home solar system owners can use the energy generated by solar panels to charge their EV during daylight hours. This reduces reliance on grid electricity and lowers overall energy expenses.

It is also worth considering a time-of-use (ToU) tariff from your energy provider to further optimise costs.

This tariff incentivises users to shift some of their power usage, including EV charging, to non-peak times when power is cheaper. Higher usage charges apply during peak times.

Charging from the grid during a non-peak period, such as overnight, is a cost-effective option for EV owners when they can’t use solar power.

EV charging levels explained

EV owners can choose between two options, or levels, when charging at home.

Level 1 charging uses a standard household power outlet, offering convenience but slower charging times.

It is useful for topping up plug-in hybrids (PHEV), which have smaller batteries, or ‘emergency’ situation when you can’t access a more powerful EV charging station.

Level 2 involves a dedicated EV charging station (wall box) operating at higher voltage and amperage.

This setup allows EVs to be charged much quicker than Level 1, making it ideal for regular home charging.

Learn more about charging your EV here.

Lower the cost of charging your EV

By taking advantage of the energy generated during the day by a solar system and accessing a ToU tariff, EV owners can better manage their energy consumption while keeping their car charged and ready to go.

For more information on optimising EV charging with solar energy contact RACQ Solar.

Click here to learn more about EVs from RACQ.