Imagine a sleek structure shading your car, not just from the harsh Australian sun, but also diligently generating clean energy. This isn’t a futuristic fantasy; it’s the reality that solar carports offer.
These innovative structures are rapidly gaining popularity across Australia, offering a dual-purpose solution for homeowners seeking to adopt sustainable living practices. They provide shelter while harnessing abundant solar energy to power your home and even charge your electric vehicle (EV).
Powering up your EV with solar
If you plan to purchase an EV, integrating an EV charger into your solar system is a great way to “fuel” your car with clean, renewable energy.
What is a solar carport?
A solar carport is a custom-built structure fitted with solar panels, designed to shelter your vehicle while generating electricity. Unlike rooftop solar systems, these carports are freestanding and optimally angled to capture maximum sunlight.
You can install a solar carport in a driveway, backyard, or commercial car park. This allows property owners without suitable roof space to still benefit from solar energy.
How solar carports work: Energy for home & EV
Solar carports operate similarly to traditional photovoltaic (PV) systems. The panels mounted on the structure convert sunlight into electricity, which is channelled into your home’s electrical system or EV charger. When paired with smart energy management and storage, solar carports become a cornerstone of energy efficiency at home.
Here’s a breakdown of the process:
- Sunlight hits the solar panels on the carport roof.
- DC electricity is generated and passed through a solar inverter.
- The inverter converts it to AC power for household appliances or EV chargers.
- Surplus energy can be stored in a solar battery system or exported to the grid.
Use Energy Matters’ easy-to-use solar power and battery storage calculator to determine the size of your solar system with storage! Our solar calculator will generate performance information and potential savings.
We can send this information to 3 of our pre-vetted and trusted local installers in your area to receive obligation-free solar quotes.
Integrating EV charging with your solar carport
Typically, you will need to install an EV charger that is compatible with your vehicle and connect it to the solar power system.
- Charger selection: Choose an EV charger that meets your vehicle’s charging requirements and your desired charging speed. Options range from Level 1 (slow charging) to Level 2 (faster charging), and in some cases, even DC fast chargers.
- Wiring and connection: A qualified electrician will handle the wiring and connection of the EV charger to your solar power system and your home’s electrical grid.
- Smart charging: Consider a smart EV charger that optimises charging times based on solar energy availability and electricity tariffs. This can maximise your savings and ensure you primarily charge with clean energy.
Setting up EV solar charging with your carport is straightforward, especially when using a solution like the GoodWe Polaris Series Solar Carport. Designed for energy generation and EV support, the Polaris Series combines sleek design with functionality, making it perfect for home or commercial applications.
Key solar carport benefits for Australian homes
With Australia’s high solar potential, investing in a solar carport can deliver substantial returns. Below are the standout solar carport benefits for Australian households:
1. Dual-purpose design
- Provides shade and weather protection for vehicles.
- Generates renewable electricity for household use and solar charging for electric vehicles (EVs).
2. Reduce energy bills
- By generating your electricity, you can significantly lower your monthly energy expenses.
- Surplus energy can be fed back into the grid for credits (via feed-in tariffs).
3. Supports EV charging
- Ideal setup for homeowners with electric vehicles.
- Allows daytime solar charging directly from your carport system.
4. Utilises unused space
- Turns otherwise idle carport or driveway areas into power-generating assets.
- Great for properties with limited or unsuitable roof space.
5. Increases property value
- Eco-conscious buyers are increasingly drawn to homes with built-in renewable carport solutions.
- Adds modern functionality and energy independence to the home.
6. Sustainable living
- Embracing solar energy reduces your carbon footprint and contributes to a cleaner environment.
7. Energy Independence
- Solar carports offer a degree of energy independence, shielding you from fluctuating electricity prices.
- Excess power can be used at home, reducing reliance on the grid.
8. Government Incentives
- Various government rebates and schemes are available in Australia to encourage the adoption of solar energy solutions, including solar carports.
Comparing solar carports vs. Rooftop solar
While both systems harness solar energy, solar carports offer added flexibility and unique benefits. They are a high-value alternative for homeowners without viable roof space or those looking to expand an existing system.
| Feature | Rooftop solar | Solar carport |
| Uses existing space | Yes | Yes |
| Additional structure required | No | Yes |
| Doubles as a vehicle shelter | No | Yes |
| Great for shaded or unsuitable roofs | No | Yes |
| Custom orientation and tilt | Limited | Fully customisable |
Are solar carports right for you?
Consider these questions to see if a solar carport fits your needs. If you answered yes to any of these, a solar carport could be your perfect energy upgrade.
- Do you have an EV or plan to buy one soon?
- Is your roof shaded, angled poorly, or unsuitable for solar panels?
- Do you want additional shelter for your vehicle?
- Are you looking to expand your current solar system?
The future is bright with solar carports
Solar carports represent a smart and sustainable investment for Australian homeowners. They offer a practical solution for generating clean energy, reducing energy costs, and embracing electric mobility. Combining shelter for your vehicle with the sun’s power, these innovative structures are paving the way for a greener future.
Ready to harness the power of the sun in your driveway? Contact Energy Matters today for a free consultation and discover how a solar carport can transform your home’s energy landscape! Embrace clean energy and drive towards a sustainable tomorrow with Energy Matters.
