Since electric vehicles (EVs), such as the Tesla Model 3, have become increasingly popular, EV owners are experiencing a surge in their electricity bills. To combat that, and also further support their stance on supporting the environment and climate change, more EV owners are choosing to installing solar power as an eco-friendly and cost-saving way of charging their electric vehicles at home.

While charging via solar panels reduces carbon footprint and saves on costs; one common question asked of us by people considering going this route is “How many panels will I need to charge my Tesla?” Watt Masters provides expert solar panel installation services and can ensure that you have the correct amount of panels needed to efficiently charge your Tesla Model 3, any other Tesla model, and any other electric vehicle for that matter.

Understanding Your Tesla Model 3’s Energy Requirements

Before selecting how many solar panels are necessary, it’s crucial to understand the energy requirements of a Tesla Model 3. Each version (Standard Range, Long Range or Performance) offers different capacities ranging from 50kWh up to 82 kWh for its battery. Of these models, Long Range features the largest capacity at 82kWh – making this model particularly popular!

To fully charge a Tesla Model 3, approximately 82 kWh is necessary, although most drivers won’t allow their battery to completely discharge before starting charging. Therefore, during an average charging cycle, only 30-60 kWh is typically required to keep you topped off.

How Much Energy Do Solar Panels Generate?

Solar panels create electricity by harnessing sunlight to convert it into usable energy, with output depending on factors like efficiency, sunlight access and angle/orientation of panels. The most common solar panel size is around 300 to 400 Watts, therefore producing about 0.3-0.4kWh.

For example:

• An average 300-watt solar panel produces 1.5kWh daily when exposed to 5 hours of direct sunlight.
• Under normal operating conditions, a 400-watt panel generates 2kWh daily.

With these numbers in hand, it should be easier to determine how many solar panels would be necessary to power a Tesla Model 3 sedan.

Calculating How Many Solar Panels You Need to Charge a Tesla Model 3

Imagine driving your Tesla Model 3 approximately 30 miles each day, which would require approximately 8kWh of electricity (based on 0.25kWh per mile consumption of electricity by your Tesla). To generate that much power you would require:

• Three 300W solar panels (generating 4.5kWh/day).
• Four 300W solar panels (producing 6kWh/day of power) plus some grid electricity if needed.
• Two 400W solar panels (generating 4kWh per day).

Under ideal conditions, six to eight solar panels should provide sufficient electricity for daily usage of your Tesla, if you drive around 30 miles per day. If you drive more than that, additional panels would be required to meet increased charging demands.

Consider Peak Sun Hours

Your requirements for solar panels depend upon how many peak sunlight hours your location receives each day; for instance, Phoenix, Arizona enjoys five or more peak sun hours daily on average – making solar energy an efficient solution here. Watt Masters’ experienced staff specialize in customizing systems to optimize sunlight capture in areas like Phoenix.

Why Watt Masters Is Your Best Choice for Solar Panel Installation

When it comes to installing a solar system to charge your Tesla Model 3, Watt Masters is the premier choice. Here’s why:

1. Customized Solar Solutions

Every home and EV charging setup differs. Watt Masters’ team of energy consultants will assess your energy needs, roof size and sun exposure before custom designing a solar system to fit them specifically. No matter whether you drive your Tesla Model 3 often or occasionally,  Watt Masters can help determine exactly how many panels you need for optimal charging!

2. Expert Installation

Watt Masters has extensive experience installing solar panels for both residential and commercial customers, employing certified professionals who ensure your solar arrays are installed quickly, correctly, and efficiently, maximizing their energy output while prolonging their lifespan.

3. High-Quality Panels

At Watt Masters, we supply only top-grade panels from reliable manufacturers. High-efficiency solar cells ensure you make the most of every square foot on your roof space to generate more power with fewer panels.

4. Savings and Incentives

Watt Masters can assist with taking full advantage of federal and local incentives available for solar panel installations, like tax credits of up to 30% off installation costs – making solar power even more affordable!

5. Sustainability

Installing a solar system to charge your Tesla Model 3 will contribute towards creating a cleaner and greener future, and Watt Masters is dedicated to helping reduce carbon footprint while enjoying convenient home EV charging services.

Additional Considerations for Charging a Tesla with Solar Power

Before installing solar panels on your Tesla, here are a few additional considerations you should keep in mind:

1. Battery Storage

If you want to charge your Tesla at night or on cloudy days, you will need a solar backup battery. Solar batteries store energy generated during the day so you can charge even when the sun doesn’t shine to produce power.

2. Net Metering

Net metering enables solar panel owners who produce more power than they require to sell it back into the grid for further cost reduction and maximized return on investment. Although these options have changed in recent years, there may still be available options depending on your area and utility company.

3. Future-Proofing

Watt Masters can design a system with your expansion in mind so you can add panels as necessary without needing an overhaul in the near future. We strive to design systems with maximum scalability so we can accommodate growth efficiently.

Conclusion

Charging your Tesla Model 3 using solar panels is an ideal way to reduce both carbon emissions and electricity bills. Working with an experienced installer like Watt Masters can ensure your system will meet both these criteria. No matter if it requires six, eight, or several more panels, Watt Masters can create a solution tailored specifically for you that keeps your electric vehicle charged using renewable, clean energy sources! Watt Masters can assist in all your EV charger installation and solar installation needs! Get in touch with us now to discover more ways we can help make you green with solar energy!