Increasing electricity rates, frequent power outages and fear of higher power bills, a solar system with a home battery backup has become a compelling option. Though, diverse options are available for solar battery search, but Tesla Powerwall is gaining attention of people. Tesla, is mainly famous for its electric vehicles has also jumped onto the commercial and home battery storage products. Tesla acquired Solar City in 2016 and introduced the Powerwall in 2015.Tesla started its production in 2017.
In this article, we will be discussing facts, costs, specs and updates of Tesla Powerwall 2. Tesla Powerwall offers unlimited-cycle warranty, capacity stackability and some interesting app features.
What is a Tesla Powerwall?
The Tesla Powerwall 2.0 is a lithium solar battery system is an integrated solar battery system stores excess energy generated at daytime and provide it on requirement. Tesla Powerwall 2.0 enables to minimize reliance on the grid and keeps the home self-powered through outages. It offers incredible energy storage solution in combination with solar panels and the Tesla Solar Roof. It is capable of storing energy at home, detecting outages and supplying a home’s energy automatically when the grid is down.
Tesla Powerwall Specs
The Tesla Powerwall claims best performance specifications. It has a Gateway management system, which ensures smart monitoring and control. Storage of 13.5kWh of energy capacity of the Powerwall 2.0 is sufficient to power nearly half of the average United States’ households’ daily energy usage.
| Serial | Features | Specifications |
| a | Battery type | Lithium-ion |
| b | Total energy capacity | 14 kWh |
| c | Usable energy capacity | 13.5 kWh |
| d | Peak Power rating | 7 kW peak |
| e | Continuous power output (on-grid) | 5 kW |
| f | Round trip efficiency | 90% |
| g | Depth of discharge | 96% |
| h | Operating modes | Solar Self-ConsumptionTime-Based ControlBackup Power |
| i | AC Voltage | 230V |
| j | Grid Frequency | 50 Hz |
| k | Feed in Type | Single-phase |
| l | Internal battery DC Voltage | 50V |
| m | How many can be stacked | Up to 10 |
| n | Operating Temperatures | -20°C to 50°C |
| o | Dimensions | Length – 45.3 inch Width – 29.6 inch Depth – 5.75 inch |
| p | Weight | 251.3 lbs/114kg |
| q | Warranty | 10 Years, Unlimited Charge/ discharge Cycles, 70% performance at end of warranty |
| r | Tesla Powerwall Price | $11,000 – $16,000 per unit Additional Tesla Powerwalls cost less per unit if you add more batteries. |
How Does the Powerwall Work?
The Tesla Powerwall has introduced a new way of energy storage. Energy generated from solar panels is stored in lithium-ion battery for later use even on days with less sunlight. The Powerwall is fitted with an integrated inverter that precisely transforms the stored DC electricity in its battery into AC electricity, for functioning of home appliances/ electrical systems. A rectifier has also been incorporated in The Powerwall that plays a crucial role in the energy storage process. The rectifier is responsible for converting the electricity This high tech and efficient Powerwall provides seamless, smooth and consistent electricity for one’s energy needs.
Tesla Mobile App
Tesla has developed an interactive mobile app which enables users to check the real-time system functioning and performance history of their Powerwall. This app also allows users to select any of three modes for use of storage energy i.e Solar Self-Consumption, Backup Only Power and Time-Based Control.
- Solar Self-Consumption Mode. While selecting this mode, Powerwall can power your home by storing solar energy for later use.
- Backup Only Mode. This mode switches the battery to enable it to store maximum energy to maintain battery at full charge. This enables the system to provide backup for longer durations.
- Time-Based Control . This enables the a homeowner to use stored battery stored electricity at his own chosen timings as to discharge the energy at peak rates timings.
Pros and Cons of the Tesla Powerwall
- Pros
- Increased solar efficiency. An efficient solar energy storage battery and solar panels / roof system with perfect and long backup.
- Warranty. Powerwall batteries have a 10-year warranty. Batteries may be able to last longer when properly maintained.
- Installation. The Tesla offers charges of installation inclusive in Powerwall pricing.
- Tax credits. 30% tax credit is being offered in USA, If you upgrade your home to solar currently and vaild till the end of 2032. It will be 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034. With Tesla solar system investment, one should qualify for up to 30% in federal tax credits and onwards accordingly.
- Cons
- Major Investment. Previously, Tesla Powerwall batteries were available for sale as standalone. However, currently, one has to purchase Powerwall batteries as an add-on to a major Tesla solar installation, either solar panels or a solar roof.
- Variation in Capacity. A solar battery’s storage performance is dependent on sunlight. More days of backup power from your Powerwall after a full day of direct sunlight and at the same time less or negligible after a cloudy day. Thus, homes in sunny climates with lots of direct sunlight are among the best candidates for solar.
- Multiple Batteries. Once you go for Tesla, then Tesla will tell the number of solar batteries that makes proportionate for your home, given your location and home consumption/ size. You may need two or three batteries accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
The Powerwall is one of the most expensive storage batteries amongst available options in the market in respective specifications. One smaller Powerwall battery can adequately provide electricity backup to installed load in most of the households in the United States i.e 5–10kWh. Tesla backup power solution offers a storage capacity, which is generally more than enough for evening/overnight use.
However, installation of Powerwall 2.0 does not allow you to disconnect from the grid regardless of its high capacity. Like most of the available solar storage systems, you will need to inject energy through utility company to maintain requisite energy level.