31 Oct 2026 · EV chargers
What's a solar aware EV charger?
A solar-aware EV charger uses the spare power your panels make to charge your car, and can keep charging when the sun drops. Here is how it works and what to check before you buy.
What's a solar-aware EV charger?
A solar-aware EV charger uses spare solar power to charge your car. With the right settings, it can add grid power to keep your normal charging speed when solar drops. Or you can choose to use only spare solar, so charging slows or pauses when less is available.
Two ways it can charge
- Solar plus grid: Your car charges at a steady speed. When the sun drops, the charger draws the rest from the grid.
- Solar only: Charging is fastest when the sun is strong and slows or pauses under cloud. It suits anyone not in a hurry.
If you're unsure, start with solar plus grid. Your installer can set it up either way.
How Smarter Solar can help
Smarter Solar looks at your solar system, electricity use and EV plans to create a free personalised plan you can discuss with vetted installers. Your plan is a starting point, not a final quote. Anything based on your roof or your description is provisional until an electrician confirms it.
Sources: energy.gov.au, SA Power Networks, Solar Victoria, NSW Government, Electric Vehicle Council, SolarQuotes.