The Rise of Solar Carports: Powering Your Home and Vehicle
Explore how solar panel carports can reduce your energy bills and provide clean power.
"An investment in knowledge pays the best interest."— Benjamin Franklin
What if the structure that protects your car could also power your home? That's the innovative idea behind solar carports. These structures combine the functional benefit of a standard carport with the energy-generating power of photovoltaic (PV) panels, turning a simple parking space into a valuable asset that can significantly reduce your electricity bills.
A solar carport functions just like a rooftop solar installation. The PV panels mounted on the carport roof capture sunlight and convert it into direct current (DC) electricity. An inverter then changes the DC electricity into alternating current (AC) electricity, which can be used to power your home. Any excess energy your carport generates can be sent back to the electrical grid, potentially earning you credits from your utility company through a system called net metering.
One of the biggest advantages of a solar carport is that it makes use of existing space without requiring you to mount panels on your home's roof. This is an ideal solution for homes where the roof is not suitable for solar panels due to its angle, shading, or age. Furthermore, solar carports are a perfect pairing for electric vehicles (EVs). You can install an EV charging station right under the carport, allowing you to literally power your car with sunlight. It's a smart, sustainable investment that provides shade, generates clean energy, and increases your property's value.