How many solar panels does it take to charge an EV?

Q: How many solar panels does it take to charge an EV?

For 1,000 miles a month in a compact SUV like the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV FWD (31.1 kWh per 100 miles, EPA), you need about 3,732 kWh a year. That is about 2.1 kW of panels (6 panels of 400 W) in Arizona and about 3.2 kW (9 panels) in Washington. Panels make that energy in daytime, so unless the car charges at midday, net metering or a battery covers the timing.

Updated October 25, 2026. Every answer lists the sources we read it from. If we couldn't back an answer, we left the question out.

Solar to cover 1,000 miles a month of EV driving for a year
Car (EPA kWh per 100 mi)	kWh a year	Arizona	Florida	Michigan	Washington
Tesla Model 3 Standard RWD (24.3)	2,916	1.6 kW, 5 panels	2.0 kW, 6 panels	2.4 kW, 7 panels	2.5 kW, 7 panels
Chevrolet Equinox EV FWD (31.1)	3,732	2.1 kW, 6 panels	2.6 kW, 7 panels	3.1 kW, 8 panels	3.2 kW, 9 panels
Chevrolet Silverado EV Ext Range WT (47.8)	5,736	3.2 kW, 8 panels	4.0 kW, 10 panels	4.8 kW, 12 panels	5.0 kW, 13 panels

Panel counts assume 400 W panels on an unshaded, south-facing roof at a 20 degree tilt, the same assumptions as our solar calculator.

Run your own numbers: EV charging cost by state · Solar calculator

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Estimates only. Your actual costs depend on your utility's rate plan, how and when you charge or use power, and local prices. This is general information, not financial, tax or legal advice. See our disclaimer.

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