DIY Solar Carport: Build Your Own Solar Power Carport for Maximum Efficiency

As solar technology becomes more affordable and customizable, a DIY solar carport is no longer just a trend—it’s a powerful and cost-effective energy solution. Whether you’re looking to charge your EV, offset your home’s energy use, or simply make better use of your backyard space, building a solar carport residential system is one of the smartest investments you can make.

Why Choose a DIY Solar Carport?

Building a carport with solar panels has several advantages:

• Dual-purpose structure: It provides covered parking space while simultaneously generating clean energy.

• Cost-effective: As the size increases (e.g., from 2-car to 3-car), the unit cost per watt drops significantly.

• More efficient than rooftop systems: Thanks to bifacial panels and optimized tilt, solar carports often outperform rooftop setups, especially when backed by reflective ground surfaces.

Project Overview: Our DIY Solar Carport Build

We constructed a dual-space solar panel carport in our backyard with 24 bifacial panels, offering over 12,000W of theoretical power. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

Foundation and Structure

• Used 3-foot-tall concrete footings with rebar, each post embedded 2 feet underground.

• Avoid placing structures directly on 4-inch concrete slabs—engineer-approved permits are essential.

• The frame: C-channel horizontal beams mounted on vertical steel posts.

• Main frame installation by a 3-person team took only 2 hours using a scissor lift.

Solar Panel Installation

• Panels were preassembled on the ground using M rails.

• Installed from the lowest row upward.

• Each string includes 12 panels, with voltage regulated between 400–500V to stay within 600V hybrid inverter limits.

• Used conduits to route wiring from panels to the main distribution point.

Drainage & Sealing

• M rails function as drainage channels.

• Rubber strips or silicone sealant were used between panels to prevent leaks.

Performance and Energy Output

• Theoretical max output: 12,300W (with bifacial gain)

• STC-rated output: 9,840W

• Real-world max measured: 8,700W (88% of STC)

Note: Bifacial gain depends heavily on surface reflectivity. A light-colored or white surface below the panels is ideal. Installing solar carport structures higher does not compensate for a lack of reflectivity.

Real Benefits of a Residential Solar Carport

• Functional outdoor space: Park cars, install a hammock, or set up a hot tub.

• Easy maintenance: Individual panel replacements are quick and accessible.

• Bird-proof: Less nesting activity compared to rooftop systems.

• Permit-friendly: Easier to get approvals compared to home roof installations.

• Affordable solar energy: Similar cost to traditional carports, but adds power generation.

Common Issues and Pro Tips

• The included screws were low-quality—buy your own.

• Manufacturer images are often misleading; actual structure is much more impressive.

• A scissor lift is essential; ladders are not safe for this type of install.

• Oversized components require proper equipment like pallet jacks for unloading.

• Confirm layout and dimensions with the manufacturer to avoid misalignment during panel installation.

Recommended Product: Sunchees All-in-One Solar Carport Kit

For those not wanting to build from scratch, the Sunchees 6KW All-in-One Solar Carport Kit is an ideal choice. It includes:

• 6 × 600W monocrystalline panels (total 3.6kW)

• Hybrid inverter and 13.3kWh lithium battery

• MPPT charge controller and mounting system

• Fully modular and supports expansion

Sunchees is a trusted brand with over 12 years of experience and customers in 200+ countries. They design both the inverter and battery, ensuring seamless integration, fast troubleshooting, and long-term reliability. Their products are CE, TÜV, and IEC certified and come with generous warranties.

Solar Carport for Commercial Parking Lots

Using scalable solar carport kits in commercial parking lots is not only feasible—it’s profitable. Here’s how:

• One kit generates ~14kWh/day, saving ~$766/year.

• Scale to 20 kits for 20 parking spaces = $15,000+/year in savings.

• Easily integrated with Level 2 EV chargers.

Ensure structural integrity (steel frames), waterproof sealing (rubber/aluminum strips), and independent power monitoring systems for best results.

FAQs: DIY Solar Carport

Q1: What is a DIY solar carport?

A DIY solar carport is a self-built car shelter fitted with solar panels that generates electricity. It combines covered parking with solar power generation, ideal for homes and businesses.

Q2: How much does a DIY solar carport cost?

Costs vary based on size, components, and design. A 2-car carport solar installation may range from $6,000 to $15,000. Larger versions (3 or 4 cars) benefit from lower cost-per-watt ratios.

Q3: Can I install a solar carport kit myself?

Yes, many solar carport kit products are designed for DIY installation. However, you may need professional help for foundation, permitting, or electrical connections.

Q4: What’s the difference between a solar carport and a solar panel carport?

They refer to the same thing. Terms like solar car port, carport solar, and carport with solar are interchangeable, though some emphasize structure vs. function.

Q5: Do bifacial panels make a big difference?

Only if you have a highly reflective surface below the panels. Otherwise, regular monofacial panels are more cost-efficient.

Q6: Can I use parking lot solar panels for residential use?

Absolutely. With the right mounting and inverter, parking lot solar panels can be adapted for backyard or small-business use.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re building from scratch or using a residential solar carport kit, a DIY solar carport is a smart, future-proof investment. It reduces your energy bills, increases property value, and supports EV charging. With brands like Sunchees offering customizable, plug-and-play systems, there’s never been a better time to build your own solar-powered space.