Solar Carport: A Dual Solution for Vehicle Protection and Energy Generation

Highlights

• Introduction
• Emerging landscape of the solar carport industry
• Role of smart grid technology in solar carports
• Recent developments in the industry

The growing adoption of solar technology has increased both revolutionary innovations and clear, practical uses. A notable example is solar carports, which are an extension of conventional carports that offer shade and protection for vehicles. Solar carports do not require an existing roof or surface for mounting the solar panels. They are built with panels integrated into their design. This setup allows the panels to protect the vehicle and produce clean energy.

The solar carport generates electricity to charge electric vehicles or supply power to nearby buildings. This reduces electricity costs, lessens the strain on the regional power grid from charging stations, and enhances the operational efficiency and economic benefits of the system. Another benefit of a solar carport compared to a traditional solar panel system is the installation angle. The angle at which the solar panels are aligned in a carport can be optimized to maximize sunlight exposure, potentially improving energy capture and efficiency.

The emerging landscape of the Asia-Pacific solar carport industry

The Asia-Pacific region is witnessing substantial economic growth, which is fueling a sharp increase in energy demand. Nations like China and India are prioritizing the expansion of energy infrastructure to meet increasing electricity demand. This rising energy demand is accelerating the adoption of renewable energy solutions, such as solar carports.

Governments throughout the Asia-Pacific region are enacting policies and incentives to promote the adoption of renewable energy. These measures include tax credits, subsidies, and regulations to lower carbon emissions. For instance, ambitious carbon reduction targets established by countries such as China and India are drawing investments in the solar technology landscape, including the solar carports industry.

Solar carports play a key role in lowering carbon footprints while offering additional advantages such as shade and vehicle protection. Growing awareness of climate change and the necessity for sustainable practices are fueling increased interest in solar carports from consumers and corporations. Among the emerging countries of Asia-Pacific, India is projected to showcase a notable CAGR of 10.44% throughout the forecast timeframe. 

Enhancing solar carport performance with smart grid technology

Smart grids enable local energy production, allowing solar carports to generate electricity on-site. This approach decreases dependence on centralized power sources and reduces transmission losses, resulting in more efficient energy utilization. Moreover, smart grid technologies offer advanced monitoring and management features for solar carports. These abilities include real-time data on energy production and consumption, supporting improved decision-making and maintenance.

Users optimize their energy usage by using this real-time information for enhanced system efficiency. On the other hand, smart grids enhance electric vehicles charging at solar carports by coordinating charging times with solar energy availability and grid conditions. This ensures that EVs are charged during periods of high solar generation, thereby maximizing the use of renewable energy.

Solitek introduced a solar carport designed for both residential and commercial applications

In December 2023, Lithuanian solar PV manufacturer Solitek, a division of Global BOD, launched a new line of PV carports suitable for single-family homes as well as commercial and industrial sites. The system includes glass-glass frameless modules and a load-bearing structure with all necessary fasteners. It also offers inverters from well-known brands such as Fronius and Huawei. The modules feature an A-class fire safety rating and are backed by a 30-year linear power output guarantee. 

Tata Power and Tata Motors officially inaugurated India's largest solar carport in June 2021

In alignment with Tata Group’s commitment to green manufacturing, Tata Power and Tata Motors jointly inaugurated India’s largest behind-the-meter, grid-synchronized solar carport at the Tata Motors plant in Chikhali, Pune. This carport is situated over 30,000 square meters and generates renewable energy while providing covered parking for finished vehicles. Tata Power’s 6.2 MWp solar carport is expected to produce 86.4 lakh kWh of electricity annually, reducing carbon emissions by 1.6 lakh tons over its entire lifecycle and 7,000 tons each year.

To conclude, solar carports are transforming renewable energy use by combining vehicle protection with power generation. Smart grid technology enhances their efficiency, optimizing energy use. Moreover, innovations in solar carports highlight their potential for sustainable development and reduced carbon footprints.

For detailed information regarding competitive analysis of the global solar carport landscape, contact our experts today!

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