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Can you become independent of energy prices?

by Barnabas Szantho

Energy calculator

Can your solar panels power your EV?

Find out if a rooftop solar system in Germany can fully cover your electric vehicle's energy needs — month by month, including seasonal variation and household consumption.

Annual solar

12,000 kWh

Annual EV need

1,199 kWh

Deficit months

Grid energy needed

0 kWh

Daily commute18 km

Solar system size12 kWp

Household usage4,000 kWh

Battery storage10 kWh

Monthly energy balance

Solar surplus available for EV vs. actual EV consumption

Solar available for EV EV consumption Surplus

Assumptions: ~1,000 kWh/kWp annual yield for Germany · 17 kWh/100 km annual average EV consumption, distributed seasonally with cold-weather adjustments (up to +18% in winter) · Monthly solar distribution based on PVGIS data for central Germany · Battery modelled as daily time-shifting: without a battery, only ~30% of solar surplus can be used for EV charging (car is away during peak solar hours); a 10 kWh battery raises this to ~90%.

Need some reference points? Here are the German averages:

Solar System Size: A 10 kWp system is the current standard for a single-family home. It consists of about 20 panels and requires roughly 45 to 50 square meters of roof space.
Battery Size: The average new home battery stores about 8 to 10 kWh. Physically, they are incredibly compact nowadays, roughly the size of a mini-fridge.
The Cost: Thanks to falling component prices and 0% VAT in Germany, a complete 10 kWp system including a 10 kWh battery and professional installation currently costs around €17,000 to €20,000.

Disclaimer: This calculator provides a simplified estimate based on average values for Germany (approx. 1,000 kWh/kWp annual solar yield, 17 kWh/100 km average EV consumption with seasonal adjustments). Actual results depend on your specific location, roof orientation and tilt, local weather conditions, vehicle model, driving style, and household consumption patterns. This tool is intended for general orientation only and does not constitute energy, financial, or investment advice. For binding project planning, please consult a qualified solar installer or energy consultant.