The automotive world has started switching from traditional ICE vehicles to modern electric cars. This shift will become the best solution for the increasing concerns about greenhouse gasses and air pollution. But, developing a robust and reliable charging infrastructure is important for adopting electric vehicles. Using a solar carport is an innovative solution for obtaining green energy. EV owners can also meet their charging needs with solar carports. Let us now discuss how solar carports for EVs are beneficial and lead to sustainable transportation.
Solar carports for EVs- Charge your EV easily
A solar carport is a canopy installed anywhere you want to park your car. Whether it is a commercial parking lot or a driveway, you can take advantage of the solar carport. There are dual functionalities of solar carports. They produce clean energy and cover your vehicle. The ground-mounted panels are lifted high to ensure your EV fits below.
They are different from standard carports as they are fitted to collection systems and solar panels to preserve solar energy. So, you can use the energy to charge your vehicle.
Open parking lots that receive a lot of sun rays are the best places to leverage the benefits of solar carports.
If there are no carports, the parking zones absorb a high amount of heat and radiate it into the air. It results in intense heat and higher temperatures across the city. In winter also, snow and ice will cover the place fully, posing a potential danger.
Carports in your residential premises are highly advantageous to apartments and homes that have no garages. They protect the vehicles from weather elements. However, solar carports at your workplace and home collect solar energy to provide a comprehensive solution.
What are the benefits of having a solar carport?
Higher ROI
Solar carports will provide long-term benefits in different ways. So, install a solar carport and boost your property value. You will have a higher ROI and save more on your utility bills. You will also get some government incentives for installing the solar carport.
No grid needed
As solar carports use solar energy, they do not depend on grids. Thus, during emergencies and power outages, you can use their power-generating capabilities. They will meet your charging needs uninterruptedly and make EVs more reliable as a transportation mode. Furthermore, solar carports are integrated with batteries and energy storage systems. So, they save energy for the future when the sunlight is unavailable. This technologically advanced feature makes solar carports more independent of power grids.
Renewable energy
Solar carports can become the best source of green energy. The integration of the carport system and solar panels allows easy storage of solar energy and conversion into energy. You can reduce the usage of fossil fuels and find a more sustainable solution.
Customizable to your needs
A solar carport has a versatile design, as you can adjust the orientation, size, and angle. It ensures optimal power generation for your electric vehicle. The shade created by solar carports controls the heat effects by covering the parking space. It maintains a moderate rise in temperature and reduces carbon footprints.
Demerits of having a solar carport
Although it is beneficial to have a solar carport, there are some issues.
Need upfront investment
The installation cost is a major concern for EV owners who want a solar carport. It is a costly project for most people. But, you will benefit from the cost-saving energy bills every month.
Space constraints
You must have an adequate space for installing the solar carport. A standard house needs a solar spread of at least 400 square feet. But, not every EV owner has the space to install the carport. If you have a limited space, you can invest in a smaller carport model.
Concerns about the structure
To transform a standard carport into a solar version, the pitch and design of the structure may cause an issue. To capture sunlight efficiently, you have to keep the solar panels angled. The standard carport does not always provide the inclinations. So, it is essential to make some adjustments.
Connection-related complexities
Creating a connection between a battery storage system and a home’s electricity is complicated. You may also need to install some extra structures.
Maintenance needs
As the system needs regular maintenance, it may be costly to some users. You should clean the panels to maintain optimal efficiency.
Solar carports- How do they work?
You can link solar carports to EV chargers or keep them independent. With solar carports atop, your vehicles will receive shade. The panels will produce power that you can use for your building.
Some EV chargers are directly fitted to the panels or located somewhere on the electrical system. It helps you compensate for the EV charging cost, as you can use solar energy.
The battery storage system restores excess power for future usage. Moreover, you will find a grid connection sending the excess power.
Guide to reducing the EV charging costs
You might have encountered only a few people who produce gasoline on their own. However, several consumers across the country like to produce electricity using solar panels. They use the electricity for charging electric vehicles. If you generate a high quantity of electricity, you need to pay only for the equipment for power generation. The power can also be used for running other appliances in your house.
So, you can choose a solar carport and include a battery storage system. If the parking zone for your EV receives sun rays, solar carports will provide several benefits.
Conclusion
Solar carports are the best solution for your regular EV charging needs. Solar carports for EVs allow you to use the underutilized spaces, such as driveways and parking lots. Incorporate solar panels into these spaces and overcome the challenges. Your parking site will become a charging station. As the parking space remains covered, your cars will be safe from adverse weather conditions. Your EV’s exterior will remain intact for several years.
