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Solar panels on trucks

Solar panels on trucks can reduce energy costs, CO₂ emissions and dependence on charging infrastructure.

ElectrificationTrucks

Introduction

Through solar panels integrated or applied to vehicle surfaces, trucks can generate electricity on- board and reduce the need for external charging or diesel-powered auxiliary systems. This technology is also known as Vehicle-Integrated Photovoltaics (VIPV). VIPV is less suitable for container trucks, as frequently exchanged containers leave limited fixed surface area available for permanent solar panels.

Value proposition

  • Reduce energy costs

  • Reduce GHG emissions

  • Reduce dependence on charging infrastructure

Solar panels on trucks can reduce energy costs, CO₂ emissions and dependence on charging infrastructure. For diesel trucks, solar energy can power auxiliary systems such as refrigeration, air conditioning and cabin systems. For electric trucks, it can extend range and reduce grid electricity demand, although it does not replace charging infrastructure. TNO has stated that VIPV can potentially extend the driving range of electric trucks with 15% (if the panels are placed on the truck body).

Port applicability

This subject is applicable for all ports, even though the yield of solar panels depends on the location and weather conditions.

Groups of innovations

  • Solar panels on trucks

    VIPV can be installed on almost every cab roof. Trailers and bodies with a fixed, hard upper surface can accommodate multiple panels. Several truck manufacturers, like DAF, offer solar panels on trucks as an option for a new truck. Multiple companies can install solar panels on existing trucks.

  • Vehicle-integrated Photovoltaic (VIPV)

    Solar panels that are integrated in the vehicle

Impact

Impact level per aspect
ImpactLevelRemark
GHG emissions (well-to-wheel)Medium impact
Reduced GHG emissions because of renewable energy supply through the solar panels.
Electricity grid congestionLimited impact
Reduced grid demand because renewable energy supply through the solar panels.
NoiseLimited impact
Because the auxiliary systems are powered by the solar panel, the motor can be switched off when standing still, reducing noise.
SafetyNegative impact
Onboard electricity generation can increase risk of fire.

Port characteristics

No special facilities needed in a port to implement this innovation, as the panels are not affecting the height of the truck and, therefore, not impacting the height constraints of infrastructure, gates, etc. Having waiting areas without shading will be beneficial, as the sun will not be blocked during waiting times.

Barriers and enablers

Enablers

  • Standards & regulationsEnabler

    EU emission targets creating regulatory pressure for the adoption of low-emission vehicles.

Barriers

  • EconomicBarrier

    Substantial upfront investments. The long payback period for end-users limits market penetration. The yield of solar panels depends on the location and weather conditions.

  • Standards & regulationsBarrier

    There exists no regulatory framework for VIPV. Moreover, there is a lack of standards for solar integration in vehicles.

  • TechnologyBarrier

    Safety concerns for VIPV on roads, such as increased risk of fire.

How to implement?

  1. Step 1

    Select suitable truck types

  2. Step 2

    Assess technical feasibility

  3. Step 3

    Build business case

  4. Step 4

    Run pilots

  5. Step 5

    Evaluate and scale up

Timeline

The arrow below represents the expected development of the TRL of [title].

What should a port do in the next 3 years?

Ports have minimal influence in the adoption of solar panels on trucks.

Investment overview

CAPEX include the production or retrofitting of trucks with solar panels. OPEX include maintenance of solar panels. OPEX and CAPEX will be paid by the truck owners.

Stakeholder overview

Below is an overview of the required involved stakeholders.
Blue stakeholders are essential, white stakeholders are enabling

Knowledge base