What is an EV charging station?
Electric vehicles (EVs) powered by renewable energy are steadily emerging as the sustainable alternative to fuel-powered vehicles. With more and more electric vehicles on the road, there also comes the need to be able to charge them.
From where do EV stations source their energy?
EVs are charged in a charging station, which is also referred to as an electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) or an EV charger. An EVSE is a device that provides the electrical power to charge all kinds of electric vehicles. Now, although the source of power for EVs may be clean, the same might not be true for that of charging stations! In fact, natural gas is the most common source of power for charging stations. It is very affordable and widely available. However, all electricity is not necessarily generated by only fossil fuels. Charging stations are connected to the ‘grid’ or power supply, so although the EV produces zero emissions, the energy it draws from charging stations usually is not. But, even charging stations have can take the route of using clean, renewable energy.
How are EV stations and solar panels connected?
One of the most sustainable solutions to powering EV charging stations is through solar energy. Solar-powered stations for electric vehicles are one of the best ways to cut down on depending on fossil fuels.
To switch to solar for your charging station, you first need to determine the number of solar panels you would require to set up. For this, first consider how much you drive on average. For example, if you drive 300 km in one month, that would be about 10 km per day. Now, take a look at the energy requirement in kilowatt per hour (kWh) of your electric vehicle. Then, estimate how much direct sunlight you receive in your area. This will give you an idea of how much solar energy you would need, and how many solar panels you would need to set up to generate enough of it.
What is the future of solar-powered EV charging stations?
With the effects of global warming becoming an alarming concern, solar-powered EVs and charging stations are fast being hailed as the better alternative. A recent report found solar rooftop photovoltaic energy from solar panels to be an economic and feasible solution for EV charging, while also offering a cleaner source of energy.
Solar rooftop photovoltaic systems provide a plethora of benefits in EV charging. Thanks to their modular design, they can be installed easily. They are also a cost-efficient solution compared to charging from the grid. They minimize carbon emissions and also soften the blow from surging demands of EV charging power on the grid. A net metering solution can solve the issue of a disparity between solar energy generation and consumption.
VEMCO Solar, a solar energy company in Mumbai, provides end-to-end solutions. With over 72 years of industry expertise, we offer specialized support in this space. VEMC is ISO 9001:2015 certified and a pioneer in the field of electromechanical engineering products, allied equipment, and services. Please feel free to contact us on +91 98199 07445, and we will be happy to assist you with your solar power requirements.