Going Solar: Powering Electric Vehicles with Sunshine
Electric Vehicle Owners Embrace Solar Rooftops to Save on Energy Costs A Common Sense Choice

Solar rooftops gain traction as electric vehicle owners seek to avoid paying for electricity or gas, with many finding that solar power is the logical choice.
Introduction
Picture this: You’re driving down the road, feeling the wind in your hair and the sun on your face. But here’s the kicker—you’re not only cruising in an electric vehicle (EV), but also powering it with clean, renewable energy from solar panels installed on your roof. Talk about being a true eco-warrior!
The Sunny Side of EVs
Meet Selgo, a retired principal who decided to take action against climate change. He dove headfirst into the world of solar energy, and soon after, he became the proud owner of a Nissan Leaf. And here’s the best part—he hasn’t paid a cent for electricity or gasoline since then. It’s like having your cake and eating it too, right?
According to Becca Jones-Albertus, from the U.S. Energy Department, it’s becoming increasingly common for people with solar energy systems to venture into the world of EVs. It’s the ultimate power move—a solar-powered home and a solar-powered ride. Not only does this combo increase savings, but it also adds value to the whole project.
Fixing the EV-Electricity Conundrum
Sure, EVs are great for the environment, but let’s be real—the electricity that powers them often comes from burning dirty fossil fuels. It’s like trying to save water by taking shorter showers, only to find out that the showerhead is leaking gallons of water when you’re not looking. But fear not! Solar energy swoops in to save the day.
Residential solar photovoltaic systems convert the sun’s rays into clean electricity. If you choose to pair your solar panels with a nifty set of batteries, you’ll have an ongoing “bank” of energy to tap into. In California alone, nearly a fifth of new household solar systems in 2022 were installed with batteries. It’s like having your own solar superhero ready to power up your EV whenever you need it.
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Automakers Catching the Solar Wave
Automakers, too, have caught on to the solar-powered EV trend. Tesla, the electric vehicle powerhouse, acquired a solar company and started a solar roof division. And now, other legacy car companies are following suit. General Motors’ energy unit, creatively named GM Energy, wants to be your one-stop-shop for all things EV and beyond. They’ll help you find the perfect solar installation contractor for your home charging needs. It’s like having your car manufacturer become your personal energy concierge.
Even Hyundai and Ford have dipped their toes into the solar energy pool. They’ve realized the untapped potential of solar-powered EVs, and they want to make it as easy as pie for their customers to hop on board.
The Roadblocks and the Solutions
Unfortunately, not everyone has access to rooftop solar. The DOE estimates that about half of U.S. households either lack control over their roofs or find them inadequate for solar panel installation. But fret not, my sun-loving friends, for there’s a solution on the horizon—community solar projects. These initiatives allow renters, condo owners, and entire communities to join forces and bask in the solar glow. It’s like creating a solar-powered utopia, one neighborhood at a time.
Of course, there are always some nitty-gritty details to consider. Some utilities aren’t keen on customers producing surplus solar electricity because it means they have to pay them back. Talk about a buzzkill. Moreover, installation costs can put a damper on anyone’s solar dreams. But don’t despair—prices are coming down, and federal incentives are making solar systems more affordable. Uncle Sam wants to reward you for going green!
Meet the Solar Superstars
Let’s hear it for the solar enthusiasts who’ve turned their homes into renewable powerhouses. Take Jerry Schotz, for example. He’s so committed to the cause that he powers not only his home but also his electric lawnmower and two EVs with solar energy. Talk about an eco-lifestyle trendsetter!
Conclusion
Solar-powered EVs are the perfect marriage of clean energy and sustainable transportation. It’s a match made in eco-heaven, with the sun as the perpetual witness to this green love story. So, if you’re ready to ride the solar wave and drive into a sustainable future, consider joining the ranks of solar-powered EV owners. Your wallet, the environment, and even the sun itself will thank you.
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