Tesla Powerwall
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Tesla Powerwall
Given the rising cost of energy and the increasing occurrence of extreme weather causing power outages, more homeowners are looking to combine solar power with battery storage. The Tesla Powerwall and Powerwall+ are top choices for battery storage solutions. In this article, we'll dive into the specifications, benefits, and pricing of the Tesla Powerwall.
Understanding the Tesla Powerwall: An Introduction
The Tesla Powerwall is a prominent home energy storage solution renowned for its exceptional performance, capacity, adaptability, and advanced software—all offered at an attractive price. As a key player in the solar battery industry, the Powerwall combines innovative technology with user-friendly features to set a high standard in the market.
Produced at Tesla’s Gigafactory near Reno, Nevada, the Powerwall utilizes a specialized battery chemistry tailored for optimal performance as a stationary storage unit, differing slightly from the batteries used in Tesla vehicles.
By providing essential benefits such as backup during grid interruptions, time-of-use load management, and increased self-sufficiency, the Powerwall enhances the value of solar installations.
Additionally, its top-tier software enables users to monitor their home's power usage and make real-time adjustments to battery settings, empowering them to optimize their energy consumption.
Tesla Powerwall Evolution: A Timeline of Innovations
Tesla currently offers three iterations of the Powerwall, with a fourth expected to be released in spring 2023. The original Powerwall, introduced in 2015, was a DC battery but has since been discontinued. The following year, Tesla launched the Powerwall 2, featuring an AC battery with more than double the capacity of its predecessor. Early models, including those from competitors like Sonnen and LG, relied on separate inverters to convert electricity from DC to AC. However, the Powerwall 2 streamlined the setup by incorporating the inverter, simplifying the installation process. Nevertheless, it still required a separate solar inverter to receive and store solar power. The latest model, Powerwall+, builds on the Powerwall 2 by integrating a solar inverter, enabling direct DC connection from solar panels and further reducing the need for additional equipment.
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Powerwall 2 configuration
Powerwall+ configuration
Finally, the Powerwall 3 was set to be released in Spring 2022, but is likely delayed until at least Spring 2023. It’s expected to have double the capacity of the Powerwall 2, among other optimizations.
Specifications of Tesla Powerwall
Tesla Powerwall Advantages
One significant benefit of the Powerwall is its scalable power output due to its AC battery design. This allows for increased energy capacity when adding more batteries, with each additional unit enhancing the power available. For example, while one Powerwall supplies 5 kW, two provide 10 kW, and three generate 15 kW. This setup also amplifies the amperage of circuits that can be supported, as one Powerwall backs up circuits up to 30 amps, two up to 60 amps, and three up to 90 amps.
In contrast, DC batteries offer extended storage capacity with each addition, lengthening the system’s backup duration during outages. However, the overall system output remains the same regardless of the number of batteries added, limiting their ability to support larger circuit amperages.
Another advantage of the Powerwall is its advanced thermal management system, featuring liquid heating and cooling to maintain optimal battery cell temperature. This feature extends performance longevity, minimizes degradation, and ensures the Powerwall remains robust even in outdoor settings with high temperatures.
Pricing for Tesla Powerwall
If you buy the Powerwall+ directly from Tesla, the total cost is $11,500, including installation. However, there is a catch: Tesla no longer sells the Powerwall as a standalone product. You must also purchase solar from Tesla to access the all-in price.
Going through Tesla can provide a cost-effective option for purchasing solar and storage systems together, but if you want a Powerwall separately, you must go through a local installer.
When buying a Tesla Powerwall through a local installer, the price typically ranges from $12,000 to $16,500 fully installed (or $8,400 to $11,550 after applying the 30% federal tax credit). This price includes all the necessary components for the battery system to function—refer to our article on solar battery pricing for more details on cost factors.
Homeowners purchasing multiple batteries at once may benefit from a reduction in the cost of additional batteries, as some equipment can be shared across multiple units, resulting in cost savings.
Is Tesla Powerwall Eligible for a 30% Federal Tax Credit?
The Tesla Powerwall may be eligible for a 30% federal tax credit under the residential clean energy credit, provided it meets certain requirements set by the IRS. This credit is part of the U.S. government's effort to promote the use of clean energy sources. In order to qualify, the Powerwall must primarily be charged using solar energy and meet other eligibility criteria. It's advisable to consult with a tax professional or the IRS guidelines to ensure compliance and confirm eligibility for the credit.
The Bottom Line
The Powerwall is a top-tier home battery that stands out due to its impressive capabilities and competitive pricing. It can store solar or grid energy for use during outages or to take advantage of off-peak electricity rates. When integrated with solar panels, the battery transforms your home into a self-sustaining energy source powered by clean energy.
Boris Feldman, a Solar.com customer who had a Tesla Powerwall 2 installed, shared his positive experience with the product. "The Powerwall 2 is an innovative technology that gives me full control over my household's energy consumption. Its sleek design and user-friendly mobile app make it a standout solution."