Can I Use Solar Power to Charge My EV

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Yes, you can use solar power to charge an EV. A solar compatible charger such as the Ocular IQ Home Solar can divert excess solar power to the vehicle.

  • Solar charging reduces grid energy use and reduces your electricty cost.
  • Works with most rooftop solar systems.
  • Requires energy management for best results within the EV charger.
  • Supports off peak and solar combined charging.

What makes a charger the best for Australia?

An EV charger is considered suitable for Australian homes when it meets AS3000 wiring rules, supports the national Type 2 standard, delivers stable Level 2 charging and offers weather resistant housing.
Key requirements:

  • Type 2 compatibility.
  • Weather resistance.
  • Level 2 charging between 7kW and 22kW.
  • Installation by a licensed electrician.
  • Stable performance on Australian grid conditions.

How Solar EV Charging Works

A solar inverter generates power which can be directed to the home. An energy controller monitors solar export and diverts available energy to the vehicle before exporting to the grid.
Solar EV charging requires:

  • Rooftop solar system generating excess solar energy.
  • Smart Solar charger with CT’s to monitor electricity generation and when you are exporting
  • Compatible Level 2 charger.

Recommended Chargers

Ocular IQ Home Solar. This works with solar monitoring and load control using CT clamps on the home’s switchboard and is completly inbuilt so you only need the charger and not a seperate controller device.

Solar Charging Benefits

  • Reduced electricity bills.
  • Utilise excess solar production
  • Lower carbon footprint.
  • Works well with off peak tariffs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a special charger for solar?

Yes, to charge only from excess solar consumption, otherwise your charger will work like any other appliance in your home.

Can solar fully charge an EV?

Yes depending on solar system size.

Does weather affect charging?

Yes solar output varies according to weather.

Can I mix solar and off peak?

Yes with scheduling.

Make the most of your solar energy – get a smart solution quote today.

Author

  • Job Title - Co-Founder, EVSE Australia

    11 years of EV charging deployment history

    EV specialist, ev driver, member of AFMA, AEVA, EV Council, HVIA

    Sam Korkees is the Co-Founder of EVSE Australia, a leading provider of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure and solutions. Since co-founding the company in 2014 alongside Brendan Wheeler, Sam has played a pivotal role in scaling EVSE from an early-stage startup into a nationally recognised leader in EV charging.

    EVSE has delivered some of the country's largest EV fleet and depot charging deployments, supporting the electrification of commercial fleets, logistics operations, and government assets. The company is also recognised as a leader in public charging infrastructure, with extensive experience in the rollout of fast and ultra-fast DC charging networks nationwide.

    Sam works closely with government, utilities, and enterprise clients to design and implement scalable, future-ready charging solutions, helping accelerate the adoption of EVs across Australia.

    Credentials: 11 years of EV charging deployment history, EV specialist, EV driver, member of AFMA, AEVA, EV Council, HVIA

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