Study Reveals EV Drivers Are More Inclined to Go Solar

If you're driving an electric vehicle (EV), the chances are you're eyeing your roof for solar panels next. This interesting trend has been revealed by a recent study from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), showing a strong connection between EV ownership and solar adoption.

In a detailed examination of 869 households in the sunny San Francisco Bay Area, NREL’s research paints a clear picture: among those who have EVs, a significant 25% have also installed solar photovoltaic systems at home, compared to just 8% of those without electric cars. Interestingly, having solar panels also nudges homeowners towards buying EVs, though the effect is somewhat subtler.

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So, what makes electric vehicles and solar systems such a perfect match? Shivam Sharda, NREL's computational research scientist and the paper's lead author, explains that EV enthusiasts might be eyeing solar as a way to balance their home charging costs. But the rewards extend further: the synergy isn't just about savings; it's also about developing a more stable and efficient energy grid.

Another key aspect of the study is the power of social influence. “If you have a friend or a family member who owns a rooftop solar panel or an EV, you become more educated about the technology, so you know the pros and cons by talking to them,” Sharda said. “That has a significant influence on your owning EVs or PVs.”

The research points to the idea that policies encouraging the joint adoption of EVs and solar panels could fast-track the transition to sustainable technologies. This seems especially relevant for EV owners, who are already inclined to go solar, potentially leading to a swifter adoption of green tech solutions.

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Sources:

https://www.nrel.gov/news/press/2024/news-release-green-wheels-bright-skies-nrel-analysis-unveils-the-connection-between-electric-vehicles-and-photovoltaics.html‍