Solar Carports: Generate Energy & Protect Your Vehicles
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At Blue Ape Renewables, we believe that solar energy should work for you in more ways than one. A solar carport is the perfect way to generate clean energy, provide covered parking, and integrate EV charging—all without losing valuable space.
Whether for domestic driveways or large commercial car parks, a solar carport enhances your property while delivering savings on electricity bills and supporting the shift towards sustainable transport.
What is a Solar Carport?
A solar carport is a covered parking structure with solar panels integrated into the roof, allowing you to:
- Generate renewable energy while keeping vehicles protected
- Charge electric vehicles (EVs) directly from solar power
- Retain full use of your driveway or car park without sacrificing space
- Enhance property value and aesthetics
Unlike traditional rooftop PV, a solar carport is dual-purpose—ideal for homes, businesses, and commercial properties.
💡 Already considering solar but don’t have a suitable roof? A solar carport could be the perfect alternative!
Solar Carports for Domestic Use – Transform Your Driveway
For homeowners, a solar carport offers a stylish and practical way to generate solar energy while providing year-round protection for vehicles.
Benefits of a Home Solar Carport
- Use your driveway to generate free solar electricity
- Protect your car from rain, frost, and UV damage
- Charge your EV using clean energy
- Enhance the look and functionality of your home
- Future-proof your property with a sustainable solution
Note: Power estimates below assume 420–450 W high-efficiency panels. Domestic carports typically use a minimum of 12 panels.
How Much Power Can a Home Solar Carport Generate?
- Single-car carport: ~12 panels ≈ 5.0–5.4 kW—great for an EV charger and home loads.
- Two-car carport: ~24 panels ≈ 10.1–10.8 kW for larger homes or higher usage.
💡 Pairing with battery storage lets you use excess solar at night.
Solar Carports for Businesses & Commercial Car Parks
For businesses and public car parks, solar carports cut costs, enable workplace charging, and boost sustainability credentials.
Why Commercial Solar Carports Make Sense
- Maximise unused car park space without reducing capacity
- Reduce business electricity costs
- Provide EV charging for employees & customers
- Support net-zero goals & ESG reporting
- Future-proof sites for clean transport
How Much Power Can a Commercial Solar Carport Generate?
- ~10 spaces: ≈ 15–25 kW
- ~50 spaces: ≈ 100–150 kW
- Large sites: 1 MW+ possible
💡 Lower operating costs and engage staff & customers in sustainability.
EV Charging Integration – Power Your Electric Car Directly from the Sun
Solar carports pair naturally with EV chargers for low-cost, low-carbon driving.
- Homes: Charge using solar to cut bills.
- Businesses: Offer workplace charging and reduce reliance on public tariffs.
💡 Smart charging can prioritise EVs with excess solar before exporting.
Planning Permission for Solar Carports – What You Need to Know
Domestic: Often Permitted Development if certain limits are met (e.g., height & proximity to boundaries). Commercial: Planning usually required, often fast-tracked due to renewable benefits.
💡 We handle planning and structural calcs for you.
Structural Engineering & Wind Load Calculations
We ensure robust foundations, compliant wind/snow load calcs, and optimal tilt/orientation.
Solar Carport Costs & Funding Options
Costs scale with size and EV integration. Options include grants, 0% VAT domestically, tax reliefs, leasing & PPAs for commercial sites.
Why Choose Blue Ape Renewables for Your Solar Carport?
- Tailored solutions for homes & businesses
- Integrated EV charging
- Planning & grid application management
- Engineer-led structural design
- Rated Excellent on Trustpilot
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Carports
1. Can I install a solar carport at home?
Yes—if you have driveway or garden space, it’s a great way to generate solar and protect your vehicle.
2. How much does a solar carport cost?
Varies by size/features; domestic from ~£5k–£10k; commercial priced per kW.
3. Do solar carports require planning permission?
Domestic often PD; commercial typically requires permission.
4. How long does installation take?
Domestic: ~2–3 days; large commercial: a few weeks.
5. Can I add battery storage?
Yes—store excess solar and increase self-consumption.
6. Do I still keep full parking functionality?
Yes—carports preserve space while adding energy generation.
Start Your Solar Carport Journey Today!
💡 Clean energy, EV charging, and covered parking—all in one. 🚗☀️🔋
