Btw, I’m still investigating the economics and practicality of PV EV. PhotoVoltaic Electric Vehicle. Perhaps eventually combining a grid tie solar system to partially or completely charge an electric car. Solar net metering tariffs allow you to get credit for power you generate, offsetting additional usage for nighttime car charging.
Economics of this highly dependent on gas prices, electric tariffs, tax credits for solar and electric vehicle, up front costs , etc. Even if this does not fully pencil out with long payback period, I’m still perhaps willing to go forward with this. I’m running some financial excel SS models.
I’m scheduled to get Nissan leaf this spring, net cost will be approx 20k after Fed and State tax credits. I’m in a dept of energy program that will cover cost of home 240V charging station and my usage will be monitored. SDG&E will install a 2nd meter just for electric car and I will get lower tariff during the study. SDG&E will also use the data to determine impact of EVs on the grid. All those EVs charging at night will impact the grid and power generation needs. I will use the EV meter data to determine a potential size of home solar array to cover part or all of home + electric vehicle needs.
This whole thing has become bit of a hobby for me.
