Vehicle-Integrated Solar Technology Could Cut Europe’s Grid Demand by 15.6 TWh Annually

Vehicle-Integrated Photovoltaics (VIPV) could play a significant role in reducing electricity demand from the grid while accelerating the decarbonization of the transport sector, according to findings from the European research project SolarMoves.

Led by TNO in collaboration with Fraunhofer ISE, Sono Motors, IM Efficiency, and Lightyear, the project evaluated the performance of solar modules integrated directly into vehicles. By incorporating photovoltaic panels into vehicle roofs, hoods, and side surfaces, VIPV technology enables vehicles to generate electricity where it is consumed, reducing reliance on external charging infrastructure and grid-supplied power.

According to the study, passenger vehicles in Central Europe could generate up to 55% of their annual energy requirements through integrated solar panels, while vehicles operating in Southern Europe could meet as much as 80% of their energy needs. Researchers analyzed data from 23 vehicle categories, ranging from compact passenger cars to heavy-duty trucks, using information collected from more than 1.3 million kilometers of real-world driving alongside satellite and meteorological datasets.

Beyond individual vehicle benefits, the research highlights a broader system-level impact. The SolarMoves team estimates that if all new vehicles sold in Europe between 2024 and 2030 incorporated VIPV technology, electricity demand from the European grid could be reduced by approximately 15.6 terawatt-hours annually by 2030. This reduction is comparable to the yearly electricity generation of around 2,200 onshore wind turbines rated at 3 MW each.

The logistics sector emerged as a particularly promising application area. Solar-equipped delivery vans, trucks, and trailers can use onboard solar generation to power refrigeration, heating, hydraulic systems, and auxiliary equipment, while extending vehicle range and lowering operating costs.

Based on its findings, the consortium has recommended integrating VIPV into vehicle efficiency standards and European renewable energy policies to support wider adoption across the mobility sector.