Solar and storage solutions create resilient, cost-effective EV fleet charging infrastructure By Sage McLaughlin, Business Development Manager at REC Solar
Commercial fleets are rapidly embracing electric vehicles, with adoption expected to accelerate in 2025. Recent industry data shows that while only 7% of fleet operators reported having 20-50% electric vehicles in 2024, this number is expected to jump to 36% by the end of 2025. Looking ahead, 80% of mixed-energy fleet operators plan to have at least 25% of their fleets be electric by 2030, with 42% targeting half or more of their fleet to be electric vehicles.
This momentum is driven by proven operational advantages, a cost benefit and the positive impact of making greener choices on an organizational level. Fleet owners consistently report higher satisfaction with electric vehicles than their fossil-fueled counterparts due to lower total cost of ownership, reduced environmental impact and superior vehicle performance. Yet, as adoption increases, a challenge is arising: charging infrastructure must keep up with rising demand without adversely impacting costs or grid stability.
The infrastructure challenge is especially severe for EV fleet operators in isolated markets like Hawaii, where grid constraints heighten the risks of peak charging demand. Even in mainland U.S. markets, the combination of time-of-use rates and demand charges creates significant cost pressures for charging site operators.
Solar Power Aligns with Fleet Charging Patterns
On-site solar generation is a natural solution to these challenges, especially for EV fleet operations with predictable daytime charging schedules. Transit depots, municipal fleets and commercial operations that charge during business hours can directly leverage solar power to offset grid consumption during peak rate periods.
Our project with the Anaheim Transportation Network (ATN) is a great example of how on-site solar energy fits into this approach. In April 2024, ATN opened its solar-powered EV charging facility, featuring a 514 kW solar canopy that provides 25% of the site’s total expected energy consumption while covering the charging area and shielding vehicles from the sun.
While solar generation aligns well with EV fleet charging patterns, storage systems are the key for maximizing the value. Energy storage lets facilities capture excess solar production during peak generation hours and use that power during evening charging periods or when demand spikes threaten to trigger expensive peak charging rates. Additionally, energy storage systems can provide resiliency in daily operations by maintaining charging capability during grid outages and public safety power shutoffs. This reliability factor becomes even more important when fleets scale, as charging downtime can negatively impact capabilities, business operations, and ultimately, revenue.
Future-Proofing EV Charging Hubs Through Strategic Planning
The most successful solar and storage installations are designed with fleet expansion in mind. Systems sized only for current demand or vehicle quantity often require costly retrofits as operations scale. Working with experienced partners or consultants is crucial. These groups can help coordinate between solar providers, charging infrastructure vendors, utilities and permitting authorities.
ATN’s installation highlights this forward-thinking approach, built to accommodate fleet growth and additional charger needs while maintaining the original design. The ATN project also showcases the long-term value of this integrated strategy, generating enough clean energy to support 1.2 million electric bus miles annually while delivering an estimated $4.8 million in fuel savings over 20 years compared to gas alternatives.
PPAs Reduce Implementation Barriers
Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) are the preferred financing model for solar developers and organizations implementing solar into their operations, as they allow these organizations to deploy solar and storage systems without upfront capital investment. Under a PPA structure, an independent power producer (IPP) handles system design, installation, ownership and maintenance while providing predictable energy costs over 20+ year terms. This approach transfers most of the financial and operational risk from EV fleet operators to the IPP.
As fleet electrification continues its rise, integrating solar and energy storage will be the backbone of sustainable, cost-effective EV charging infrastructure. These systems address rising energy costs and grid constraints while supporting organizational sustainability goals. For companies considering EV charging with solar and energy storage, the key is to start early with a clear understanding of both current requirements and future growth projections.
Bio:
Sage McLaughlin is a seasoned business development and energy professional with over 15 years of experience driving decarbonization and strategic growth. At REC Solar, Sage leverages a rich background in renewable energy, analytics, and sustainability. Sage’s expertise spans fleet electrification, energy supply, ESG initiatives, and technology innovation. With a B.S. in Communication Studies from the University of Idaho and a certification in Energy Innovation & Emerging Technology from Stanford University, Sage prides herself on developing lasting relationships and is a natural-born connector who loves helping people.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sagemclaughlin/
