Most solar-aware charge points offer three broad modes. Solar-only (often called eco or green) charges purely from surplus generation, pausing when the sun drops below the charger's minimum current. It maximises self-consumption but gives you the least predictable charge.
Blended mode sets a floor: charge from solar where available, and draw the balance from the grid. Paired with an off-peak EV tariff, this is usually the best everyday compromise for households that need the car ready in the morning.
Fast or boost mode ignores solar entirely and pulls full rated power. Useful before a long trip, expensive as a default.
Whichever mode you pick, scheduling matters as much as the mode itself. Aligning grid top-ups with your tariff's cheap window typically has a bigger effect on cost than squeezing out the last kilowatt-hour of surplus.