Solar Panels Needed for EV Calculator
Driving on sunshine. Find out exactly how many solar panels and what system size you need to charge your EV — based on your daily km and sun hours.
100% = fully solar-charged. 60-80% is realistic without a home battery.
Solar energy needed
Panels needed
System size
With home usage
Solar sizing reference
| Scenario | Daily solar | System | Panels (400W) |
|---|---|---|---|
| EV only, 30 km/day | ~5 kWh | ~3 kW | 8 |
| EV only, 50 km/day | ~8 kWh | ~4.5 kW | 11 |
| EV + home | ~15 kWh | ~8 kW | 20 |
| EV + home + battery | ~20 kWh | ~10 kW | 25 |
Based on ~4.5 sun-hours/day (Central Europe). Full payback math in the Solar + EV Payback calculator.
Frequently asked questions
How many solar panels do I need to charge an EV?
About 15-25 panels (400 W each). For 40 km/day you need ~7-9 kWh of solar daily, meaning a 4-6 kW array — more if you also power the home.
Can I fully charge my EV from solar?
Yes, in sunny months with a correctly sized system. A 6 kW array can cover a 60 kWh battery in about 2-3 full sunny days if you only charge from solar surplus.
Do I need a battery to charge my EV from solar?
Not necessarily — smart chargers use solar surplus directly during the day. A home battery lets you store daytime solar for evening charging, but adds cost.
What is the payback for solar + EV?
Combined, solar + EV often pay back in 6-10 years. The EV adds charging savings on top of the home electricity savings, and both benefit from the same array.