The Pat Kenny Show What can solar power do directly for you and your EV?
Oct 8, 2025
Explore how solar panels can charge your EV and make driving more affordable. Discover the impact of carbon tax on fuel costs and how a typical solar setup could lead to free EV charging. Dive into the debate over investing in new technology versus holding onto older diesel cars. Hear insights on the challenges of upfront costs and the evolving market for secondhand EVs. Plus, discuss the missed opportunities in budget policies regarding SUV taxation and scrappage schemes.
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Solar Panels Can Power Your EV
- A 20 m² rooftop solar array produces about 2,600 kWh annually, roughly 30–40% of household needs.
- That output can charge a typical EV about 37 times per year, matching average annual charging needs.
Use Grid Exports And Night Tariffs
- Sell daytime solar output back to the grid and charge your EV at ultra-low nighttime tariffs to maximise savings.
- Use cheap night rates (around 7–7.5c/kWh) to net out costs between solar generation and EV charging.
Upfront Cost Determines Who Benefits
- The financial benefit depends on upfront capital: ~€10k for panels plus EV purchase are required before savings begin.
- Payback typically appears after five to seven years, so affordability matters more than running cost alone.