Solar Electric Vehicle Charging Stations: Power Your Car with The Sun

Hibu Websites • June 7, 2021

Solar power, once reserved for the rich and environmentally dedicated, has become more widespread. Smaller, more efficient, and affordable solar panels continue to fuel the uptake of renewable energy. In early 2019, the US surpassed the over 2 million mark for solar installations


The benefits of solar power continue to expand, especially with the recent rush for electric-car adoption. In 2019, global electric vehicle sales totaled slightly above 2 million units. This is double the volume sold 2 years before. The International Energy Agency estimates that the EVs will continue to grow to approximately 245 million cars by 2030.


While the demand for electric vehicle charging stations is sharply increasing, homeowners and business executives may need to find affordable ways to power their vehicles. Solar energy provides an excellent green alternative that replaces fossil-fuel-based grid electrical power.


How Much Power Does an EV Use?

Electric cars utilize electricity stored in battery packs to power the motor. As they run entirely on battery electricity, they are also referred to as all-electric vehicles. Your solar panel converts direct current (DC) to Alternating Current (AC), used in buildings and the EV. Installing a charging station at your home or workplace allows you to harness the sunlight into electricity that’s stored in battery packs.


The amount of power your electric vehicle uses depends on several factors, including; the make and model of your EV, how much you drive, and the battery pack. The EPA utilizes a different rating system from the traditional miles per gallon. That is the number of kilowatt-hours required to drive for 100 miles. You can find out the number for your vehicle from the fueleconomy.gov website.


With that information, you can find out how much electricity you need to power your vehicle.



How Many Solar Panels Will You Require to Power Your EV?

According to the US Department of Transportation, the average American drives 13,476 miles per year. Electricity is expensive. While you can hook up your EV charger to your grid network, your utility bills will skyrocket in no time. You can cut on these costs and carbon emissions by having a solar company install electric vehicle charging stations in your home or workplace.


Generally, you'll need approximately 8 to 12 panels to charge your electric vehicle. However, this number depends on how much you drive, the battery pack efficiency, and the sunshine in your area, among others. Consult your solar power company to determine the exact number.


How Much Will It Cost?

The installation costs for solar electric vehicle charging stations varies depending on the photovoltaic units used, quality, battery packs, and type of charger used. There are 3 general types of electric vehicle charging stations, including; Level 1 standard charger, level 2, and superchargers. Including installation costs, you may be facing an average of $13,000 to $40,000, depending on the PV system you choose.


The rise in demand for EVs has created an acute shortage of electric vehicle charging stations. Solar-powered installations provide a greener yet affordable alternative for homeowners and business executives. To discuss the installation needs for your off-grid EV charging system, reach out to Northwind Solar.


June 20, 2025
Right now, the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) offers a 30% tax credit to businesses that install solar energy systems. Originally scheduled to continue through 2033, the current Senate version of the bill maintains this 30% rate only through the end of 2025. After that, the credit is set to step down sharply: 18% in 2026, 6% in 2027, and 0% in 2028 and beyond. Don’t Miss the Safe Harbor Window Fortunately, there’s a way to lock in the full 30% credit before it’s reduced. Under the IRS’s "safe harbor" provision, you can preserve the full ITC by beginning physical work on your project or making a minimum 5% down payment by the end of 2025 — even if your system is completed in 2026. This is a powerful opportunity to secure long-term financial benefits while the full federal incentive is still available. Stackable Incentives Make the Financials Even Better Beyond the ITC, there are several additional programs that can dramatically reduce your project’s net cost: 10% Domestic Content Bonus: Earn an extra 10% tax credit for using U.S.-made solar components. Focus on Energy Rebates: A Wisconsin-based program offering upfront cash rebates for solar projects. MACRS Accelerated Depreciation: A federal tax benefit that allows you to recover the cost of your solar system more quickly through tax deductions. Solar Central Wisconsin Grow Solar Group Buy: Group pricing and additional resources that make going solar more affordable for local businesses. When stacked together, these incentives can cover a significant portion of your total investment, all while reducing your energy bills for decades to come. Why Act Now Solar has always been a smart investment, but today’s environment is uniquely favorable. With utility energy costs rising and key federal credits sunsetting, 2025 is the year to take action. Whether you’ve previously explored solar or are just getting started, revisiting your project now could mean locking in tens of thousands of dollars in savings. Northwind Solar can help you navigate every step, from incentive qualification to project design and installation. Improve your profitability by making a high-performing energy investment in your business. Achieve energy independence, support local businesses, and contact Northwind Solar today! REQUEST A FREE ESTIMATE Reach out anytime at: 715‑630‑6451 ___________________ Additional Resources: Update on Residential Solar Incentive Changes Solar Incentives Overview Grow Solar Central Wisconsin Group Buy Program
solar system benefits
June 11, 2025
Do you have questions about solar system benefits? Read this blog to learn more about breaking down the myths and real benefits of solar power.
June 10, 2025
Northwind Solar is proud to continue its partnership as the official installer for the 2025 Grow Solar Central Wisconsin Group Buy Program , in collaboration with the Midwest Renewable Energy Association ( MREA ). This initiative offers homeowners and small businesses in Portage, Marathon, Waushara, Waupaca, Wood, and Lincoln Counties an exceptional opportunity to invest in solar energy at below-market rates through a limited-time group purchasing program. However, a critical deadline is approaching. Recent legislative developments indicate that the 30% federal Residential Solar Tax Credit —a significant incentive that substantially reduces the cost of solar installations—may expire on December 31, 2025, nearly a decade earlier than previously scheduled. This potential change underscores the urgency for homeowners to act swiftly to secure both the group buy discounts and the federal tax credit. “We’re excited to once again be working with the Grow Solar program to expand solar access in our region,” said Woody Bolton, employee-owner at Northwind Solar. “With the possibility of the federal tax credit ending soon, it's more important than ever for our neighbors to take advantage of these combined savings.” The Grow Solar program facilitates community members joining forces to leverage bulk pricing for solar installations, significantly reducing the cost of going solar. The program features free educational events, called Solar Power Hours, which help residents learn about solar energy, how it works, available incentives, and what to expect from an installation. “In times of uncertainty and climbing prices, one thing remains the same: we all need electricity,” said Evonne Waugh, program manager at MREA. “Investing in solar means securing lower bills for many years ahead.” Since its inception, Grow Solar Central Wisconsin has helped over 250 households and businesses make the switch to solar, adding nearly 2 megawatts of clean energy capacity to the local grid and generating millions of kilowatt-hours of renewable power annually. REQUEST A FREE ESTIMATE TODAY! ATTEND A SOLAR POWER HOUR INFO SESSION
solar installers
June 9, 2025
Learn what to expect from an EV charger and how solar installers can help you integrate charging solutions with clean energy systems.
Home solar panels on a rooftop in Wisconsin with sun in background
May 28, 2025
The 30% solar tax credit could expire after 2025. Here’s what that means for Wisconsin homeowners — and how to lock in your savings now.
solar providers
April 10, 2025
In this blog post, we will explore the emerging trends and technologies from solar providers that are set to reshape our energy landscape in the coming years.
solar power incentives
January 13, 2025
With solar power incentives making the transition easier, there has never been a better time to turn your rooftop into a source of savings and sustainability.
solar energy
January 9, 2025
Looking to invest in solar energy at home but aren't sure if your house can support it? Check out this guide for more information on the requirements!
solar energy
December 2, 2024
What is the relationship between generators and solar energy? This blog explores the relationship and benefits of using solar energy to power generators.
solar company
November 22, 2024
Discover how the solar market has revolutionized energy usage in recent years and what a reputable solar company can do for you.
More Posts