Electric vehicle ownership is quickly growing in Massachusetts. This growth is related to the symbiotic relationship with the solar energy industry. The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection collects data on electric vehicles (EVs), and they have seen a speedy increase. The number of electric vehicles in the state grew from 782 in 2013, to 3,770 in 2017. “The number of plug-in hybrids, which can also utilize gasoline, has increased from 1,034 to 5,701 during that time frame. ”
Additionally, CleanTechnia’s recent report found that an increasing number of individuals with home solar panels own an electric vehicle and fuel their electric vehicle with energy from their solar system. CleanTechnia “surveyed over 2,000 electric car drivers living in 28 countries (49 of 50 US states, 26 European countries, and 9 Canadian provinces).” Their study showed that 28–40% of EV drivers had solar panels.
Value
Our customers at RevoluSun have added solar panels to become greener and to save money. If you transition to an electric car and fuel your car with solar, your overall fuel costs decrease. At Revolusun we can plan for a larger solar system to offset your increased electrical consumption for EV charging portals. If you have your own solar system, you are in control. You are creating your fuel and are no longer reliant on gas stations and the rollercoaster gas and oil prices. Studies say that the total cost of ownership of an electric car will be cheaper than a diesel or gas car in 2018. They will soon begin to compete against traditional cars.
Tax breaks from are driving the push in this industry. You are probably familiar with solar tax credit programs like SREC II, and the new SMART (Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target) program that will unveil soon, that make the transition to solar even more affordable. Like solar, the state of Massachusetts incentivizes electric vehicles by offering “a rebate program for zero-emission vehicles and are promoting electric vehicle technology.”
Producing electricity through solar panels has proven to be a “low maintenance [means of power generation] with a long service life.” Academic studies have found that if the electric vehicle purchase is used about “seven days a week, the return on investment is approximately six years.” The benefits are increased with the average “service life of the photovoltaic system [at] 25 years.
Greenhouse Gas Reductions
Reducing greenhouse gas emissions significantly will “require a large share of renewable energies, like solar photovoltaic power.” Renewable energy sources, including solar, may produce extra energy during the day, the excess energy can conveniently be used to power electric vehicles.
Individuals are looking to move away from fossil fuels and transition to clean energy in the home and to vehicles that do not rely on gas. Studies show that electric vehicles (EVs) are often “considered as better options in terms of greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption compared to internal combustion vehicles.”
Health
Reducing our carbon footprint also has health benefits. Many individuals that transition to solar also move towards EVs, reducing exposure to pollutants from traditional energy and exhaust sources. Fewer tailpipes emitting exhaust leads to cleaner air and fewer trips to the doctor. Take the step towards purchasing a solar system with RevoluSun, and help make your town a cleaner place. Invest in your health, save money, and become part of the global solution by investing in the green economy.
Resources:
28–40% of EV Drivers Have Solar Panels (CleanTechnica EV Report)
Conventional, hybrid, plug-in hybrid or electric vehicles? State-based comparative carbon and energy footprint analysis in the United States
Day charging electric vehicles with excess solar electricity for a sustainable energy system
Driving an electric car inspired me to install solar panels in my home — and it’s saving me money
Electric cars will come of age in 2018 | The Economist
Electric Vehicle Ownership on the Rise in Massachusetts
Feasibility of Electric Vehicle: Electricity by Grid × Photovoltaic Energy