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South Africa

Home solar cuts EV charging costs by 70% versus grid power, GoSolr South Africa study finds

By Eve

Charging an electric vehicle at home with solar power costs about R85 for a full charge compared with R280 from grid electricity, a 70% reduction, according to a case study by South African residential solar provider GoSolr. The study, part of GoSolr's quarterly Light Paper on EVs, found that the same 400km journey costs approximately R550 in an efficient petrol vehicle. GoSolr co-founder Dr Patrick Narbel reported travelling 7,000km since last filling his petrol tank, using solar and household electricity for mostly urban and suburban trips.

Why it matters

The data provides a real world cost comparison for fleet operators and charge point operators considering solar integration at depots or residential sites in South Africa, where electricity access and charging infrastructure remain barriers to EV adoption. The 70% cost saving versus grid power strengthens the business case for solar paired charging installations.

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Original title
“Home solar cuts electric vehicle charging costs by 70%, GoSolr study finds”
Published
29 October 2026
Updated
30 October 2026

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