The solarisation of electric vehicles (EVs) pertains to using solar energy as the primary source for charging these vehicles. In India, where power grids predominantly rely on coal, the environmental impacts of electric vehicle (EV) charging can be significant. One effectively mitigates this indirect pollution by employing solar energy for charging. Solar energy is characterized as clean, renewable, and abundant, offering a viable pathway toward achieving a zero-carbon footprint. It is essential to recognize that the total environmental impact of an EV extends beyond its usage phase to encompass production, operation, and disposal stages.
When the operational energy utilized by the EV is derived from clean solar sources, the overall lifecycle emissions are significantly reduced, thereby positioning the vehicle as genuinely environmentally friendly. This transition is instrumental for countries striving to meet their net-zero carbon objectives and aligns with international climate commitments, such as the Paris Agreement. Let’s dive into why solar-powered electric vehicles are essential today—not just a luxury!
Why do EVs need solarisation?
India must shift from grid-charged to solarised EVs to realize the potential of zero-emission mobility. Solarisation involves charging EVs using solar energy through solar-powered charging stations or by installing rooftop solar panels at homes or commercial facilities. This shift is essential for several reasons:
1. True Carbon Neutrality
Unlike electric vehicles (EVs) that are charged from power grids reliant on coal, solar-powered EVs generate zero carbon emissions per kilometer (0g CO₂/km). In contrast, 0.20kWh of electricity an EV consumes to run 1km, and to generate this energy it emits approximately 50 to 70g CO₂ per kilometer due to the carbon footprint associated with electricity production. By utilizing solar energy for charging, these emissions are entirely eradicated, thereby rendering solar-powered EVs genuinely carbon-neutral.
2. Shorter Carbon Payback Period
While EVs have higher production emissions due to the energy-intensive process of battery manufacturing, the total carbon emissions during their lifespan are much lower than those of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. However, for a grid-charged EV, the time required to balance the higher production emissions with the operational savings is longer. A solarised EV can achieve this balance much faster. Grid-charged EVs typically reach a carbon breakeven point after driving 53,000 to 80,000 km, but solarised EVs achieve the same balance at just 30,000 to 45,000 km. This means that a solarised EV pays off its “carbon debt” in a much shorter time, making it an even greener choice.
3. Energy Independence
India imports over 70% of its crude oil, making the nation highly dependent on global oil markets and susceptible to volatile fuel prices. Solarising EVs reduces India’s reliance on imported fossil fuels, promoting energy security and self-sufficiency. By utilizing domestically produced solar energy, India can cut down its energy import bill and reduce its vulnerability to external shocks.
4. Lower Running Costs
Charging an EV from the electricity grid still comes with a cost, as it depends on the tariff rates set by electricity providers. However, charging a solarised EV using rooftop solar power can bring the charging cost down to virtually ₹0 per km. Solar panels installed at homes or workplaces generate free energy from the sun, enabling EV users to charge their vehicles at no extra cost. This drastically reduces the operational cost of EVs, making solarised EVs a more affordable, long-term solution compared to both grid-charged EVs and petrol/diesel vehicles.
5. Reduced Pressure on Power Grid
With the rapid rise in EV adoption, there is growing pressure on India’s electricity grid to meet the charging demands of thousands of EVs. If EVs are charged from the grid, especially during peak hours, it places a heavy load on the system, sometimes causing power outages or voltage fluctuations. By charging EVs with on-site solar power (via rooftop solar panels), the pressure on the grid is significantly reduced. This enables a more stable and balanced power supply, especially during peak demand periods.
The bottom line…..
India’s transition from fossil-fuel-based mobility to sustainable transportation is crucial in achieving its climate objectives. While Electric Vehicles (EVs) have emerged as a significant solution for reducing air pollution and addressing climate change, their environmental benefits are contingent upon the sources of electricity that power them. At present, the electricity grid predominantly relies on coal-fired power plants, which hinders the full realization of the potential advantages of EVs.
The solution is evident: the solarization of electric vehicles (EVs). By utilizing solar energy for charging EVs, India has the potential to achieve genuinely carbon-neutral transportation. Solarized EVs not only eliminate carbon emissions on a per-kilometer basis but also decrease operating costs, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and alleviate strain on the electricity grid. This transformation is critical in expediting India’s progress toward realizing its net-zero emissions goal by 2070, thereby fostering a future that is cleaner, greener, and more sustainable.
The transition from grid-charged electric vehicles (EVs) to solar-powered EVs represents not only a necessity but also a significant opportunity for India to advance towards a future characterized by self-sufficiency, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability. The trajectory of India’s transportation sector is evident: it is poised to embrace solar energy, achieve zero carbon emissions, and become entirely green.
