Why pair an EV charger with solar and storage
Charging an electric vehicle from self‑generated electricity reduces reliance on the grid and can lower running costs. When a solar array is combined with a battery, surplus daytime generation can be stored and used to charge the vehicle overnight. Smart chargers can also shift charging to off‑peak tariff periods, further improving the economics of home energy use.
How the installation works
1. Site assessment – a qualified surveyor evaluates the electrical supply, parking layout and any planning considerations. 2. Charger specification – the appropriate power rating (typically 7 kW for single‑phase or up to 22 kW for three‑phase) and connector type are selected to match the vehicle and the property’s capacity. 3. Installation – an MCS‑certified partner mounts the unit, runs dedicated cabling, installs a dedicated circuit breaker and commissions the charger with the chosen smart‑charging platform. 4. Commissioning and handover – the system is tested, the owner receives a demonstration of the app or portal, and all certification paperwork is provided.
Smart charging and off‑peak tariffs
Modern chargers communicate with the home energy management system, allowing automatic start‑stop based on solar export, battery state‑of‑charge or time‑of‑use rates. Many households may qualify for flexible tariffs that reward charging when wholesale prices are low; ask about current SEG rates and how they interact with your export agreement.
Warranties and aftercare
Pier Solar’s installation partners provide an extended workmanship warranty on the charger and associated wiring. The charger manufacturer’s product warranty typically covers hardware defects for several years. Ongoing health checks and firmware updates can be arranged through our monitoring service to keep the unit operating at peak efficiency.
Get a tailored quote
Every property and vehicle combination is different, so a bespoke design ensures the right charger, cable route and smart‑charging strategy. Submit an enquiry via our quote form or email leads@piersolar.co.uk and a design engineer will prepare a detailed proposal at no obligation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Yes, a 7 kW Type 2 charger is compatible with standard single‑phase domestic supplies and will charge most vehicles overnight.
- A dedicated circuit with its own RCBO is required for safety and compliance; the installer will incorporate this into the existing distribution board where possible.
- Most smart chargers can be integrated with home energy management platforms, allowing charging from solar generation or stored battery energy automatically.
- Routine visual checks and occasional firmware updates are recommended; Pier Solar offers optional health‑check visits to verify performance and safety.