The world is addressing the global concern of greenhouse gas emissions through various measures, including the introduction of electric vehicles (EVs). The true intent of sustainability through them can be achieved only when the challenges in the charging infrastructure are met. Here comes the role of solar powered EV chargers that drive towards the goal of a sustainable future.
Growth of EVs
With a significant increase in consumer demand and supportive government policies, India has been witnessing a rapid increase in the number of EVs produced.
The government also plans to achieve an increase of 70% in the electric vehicle market by 2030. This will have a great impact on lessening the carbon footprint.
However, there remains a major challenge for EV adoption, the setting up of charging infrastructure. Also, electric charging is not completely free from the use of fossil fuels, which ultimately leads to greenhouse gas emissions. Solar EV charging stations can be the best alternative for powering EVs in the future.
Why are solar panels the future of EV charging?
Solar energy offers a promising solution to the mounting problem of greenhouse gas effects. Solar power is available in abundance and is renewable, meaning, even with its continuous use, it would still be available.
With the indiscriminate exploitation of fossil fuels, its supply hasn’t been able to match the rising demand for energy. Also, it causes excessive pollution and adds to the carbon footprint.
Using electricity generated through fossil fuels for EV charging will impact the basic purpose behind EV introduction.
Solar panels can be installed easily on rooftops of homes, thereby reducing the need for public charging infrastructure. This can lead to more people shifting to EVs in the future.
Since solar energy is an unlimited source, it can meet the increased demand for EV charging that may arise in the future.
Benefits of using solar EV charging stations
Cost savings
It is only an initial investment in the installation of solar panels, after which you use the unlimited source of the sun’s energy. There is no fuel cost, and this brings in huge savings, which is a long-term benefit for electric vehicle charging.
Environmental protection
Since solar powered EV charging stations do not release any harmful gases into the atmosphere, they protect the environment. It can slowly reduce the damage caused by the use of non-renewable sources of energy as fuel.
Scalability
As we know, solar power is unlimited in supply. As long as the sun exists, we can derive energy from it. This brings a huge benefit in the form of a demand-supply match. When EV charging is through electricity from fossil fuels, it cannot match the increase in the production of vehicles.
Reduces strain on the grid
Slowly, the dependence on the public grid for electricity comes down with the use of solar electric car chargers. This reduces the strain on the grid. Ultimately, this leads to less pollution and greener surroundings.
Sustainability
One of the main aims of launching EVs is long-term sustainability. This goal can be easily reached when solar EV charging stations are established.
No effect on price changes
Volatile fuel prices have been a major disturbing factor for EV charging as well. This will no longer be a problem with solar powered EV chargers.
Easy installation
Solar electric car chargers can be easily installed in any location, making it the best partner for electric vehicles. This way the number of solar car charging stations can be increased manifold, making EV adoption easier.
Technological advancements in solar for EVs
Smart grid integration
Balancing demand and supply by integrating solar energy with EVs helps achieve energy efficiency in the long run. This is a game changer as it is a great move to mitigate climate change.
Smart grid technology supplies energy back to the grid, and this leads to an uninterrupted supply of power without being dependent on conventional sources. This can lead to a notable development in the EV sector.
Battery technology
Improvements in battery technology are crucial for the widespread adoption of EVs. Advanced battery storage facilities that can use excess energy stored to power the vehicles during days of little or no sunlight are being developed.
Smart charging
Home charging of electric vehicles needs load balancing as they need to distribute power among all appliances connected. Smart charging solutions detect excess load and prevent any damage. Smart chargers optimize solar charging as it can be scheduled to periods when it is economical and switch to the grid when the load is low.
Conclusion
With the country gearing for a gradual shift to electric vehicles, Solar powered EV chargers offer an optimistic solution to the charging issue. Technological advancements in the solar sector will help overcome the challenges of storage, etc., in the long run. Ultimately, the rise of EVs with the support of sustainable energy sources like solar, can bring remarkable benefits to the country and the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
A solar powered charging station generates electricity through solar panels, which are then used to charge electric vehicles. The solar panels capture the sun’s light to convert it into direct current. This is then converted to alternating current using inverters to be suitable for vehicles to use as a source of power.
Yes, an off-grid solar electric car charger can operate without being dependent on the main grid. This is possible with sufficient battery storage in the inverter. Excess power generated can be stored and used without connecting to the main grid.
solar powered EV charging stations at homes or commercial spaces, dependence on the grid is greatly reduced. This leads to huge cost savings and also protects the environment from damage due to greenhouse gases.
Various types of chargers are available and the cost depends on the same. Typically cost of a solar electric car charger varies between INR 1 lakh to up to 50 lakh
Solar powered EV car chargers are efficient due to an uninterrupted supply of power. Also, they are cost-efficient and help mitigate climate change.
Solar charging stations for electric vehicles store energy in the battery storage that comes with the solar panels. Energy generated by the panels can be used directly or stored in the batteries for use during necessities. Excess energy can also be sent back to the power grid.
