Tesla Powerwall for Australian Homes: What Prospective Buyers Need to Know

Are you considering investing in a Tesla Powerwall for your home? We don’t blame you. With sunny days in abundance down under, solar is becoming a no-brainer for Aussie homes.

This comprehensive guide is designed to help Australian homeowners like you make an informed decision about this advanced energy storage solution. Read on to learn about the Tesla Powerwall's features, capabilities, costs, and potential benefits, and get answers to frequently asked questions.

We'll also discuss how the Tesla Powerwall can integrate with existing solar systems, provide backup power during outages, and contribute to a greener, more sustainable energy future.

🌞 Want to join the green energy movement and harness Australia’s beautiful sun?

Get one of Driva’s personal loan offers or check out our solar finance product here to begin your solar system journey today! We’ve been trusted by over 250,000 Aussies looking for a helping hand with their business, personal and home finances. 

The Tesla Powerwall is a cutting-edge home battery system designed to store excess solar energy produced by solar panels during the day and provide power to your home during the evening or in the event of a grid outage. 

Developed by Tesla Motors, the Powerwall has become a popular energy storage solution since its arrival in Australia in 2016 for homeowners seeking to increase their energy independence and reduce their reliance on the grid. 

The Tesla Powerwall 2, the latest version of this innovative product, boasts a 13.5 kWh usable energy capacity, with a 5 kW continuous power output and a 7 kW peak power output.

This wall-mounted lithium-ion battery system can be easily integrated with new or existing solar systems and is compatible with a wide range of inverters. By using the Tesla app, homeowners can monitor and control their Powerwall's energy usage, solar generation, and battery performance in real time.

Tesla Powerwall specifications

• Energy Usable Capacity: 13.5 kWh
• Continuous Power Output: 5 kW
• Peak Power Output: 7 kW for 10 seconds
• Round-Trip Efficiency: 90%
• Depth of Discharge: 100%
• Voltage Range: 350-450 volts
• Operating Temperature Range: -20°C to 50°C
• Dimensions: 1150 mm (H) x 755 mm (W) x 155 mm (D)
• Weight: 114 kg (251.3 lbs)
• Cooling System: Liquid cooling
• Existing Inverter Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of solar inverters
• Installation: Wall-mounted, indoor or outdoor installation (IP67 rating)
• Communication: Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and cellular connectivity for remote monitoring and control
• Mobile App: Tesla app for iOS and Android devices
• Scalability: Multiple Powerwalls can be installed together for increased energy storage capacity
• Warranty: 10-year limited warranty with a guaranteed minimum 70% aggregate throughput

*Specifications may vary based on models Tesla Powerwall 2 or others from time of writing. See Tesla’s website for updated specs.

The cost of a Tesla Powerwall in Australia typically ranges between $12,000 to $16,000, depending on various factors such as installation complexity and location.

This price includes the battery, a compatible inverter, and the necessary supporting hardware. Keep in mind that additional expenses, such as permits and professional installation, can add to the overall cost.

When comparing the Tesla Powerwall to other home battery solutions in the Australian market, it's important to consider factors like energy storage capacity, battery performance, and available warranties.

While the upfront cost of the Powerwall may be higher than some competitors, its advanced features, impressive capacity, and strong reputation for quality make it a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.

Learn more about the cost of other Tesla models.

Several financing options and incentives are available to Australian homeowners interested in purchasing a Tesla Powerwall. Some energy retailers offer payment plans, making it more affordable to invest in this advanced energy storage solution.

In addition, Australian homeowners may be eligible for state-based incentives, rebates, and feed-in tariffs that can help offset the initial cost. It's essential to research these opportunities and consult with your energy retailer or a solar installation specialist to learn more about the specific incentives available in your area.

To determine if the Tesla Powerwall is worth it for your Australian home, it's important to weigh the pros and cons, taking into account factors such as your location, energy usage patterns, grid stability, and the potential savings on your electricity bill.

Backup power during outages

A Powerwall can provide backup power during grid outages, ensuring your home remains functional during unexpected blackouts.

Increased energy independence

The Tesla Powerwall allows you to store excess solar energy generated during the day and use it during peak hours, reducing your reliance on grid power and increasing your energy independence and ability to monitor/control your solar self-consumption. If central power fails, rest easy knowing you can rely on your solar battery. 

Savings on electricity bills

By utilising stored solar energy instead of grid power during peak hours, homeowners can potentially save on their electricity bills simply by using the supply in their batteries.

Lower carbon footprint

By relying more on renewable energy from solar panels via the sun, you can contribute to a greener, more sustainable future.

Scalability

If you need more battery storage capacity, you can add multiple Powerwalls to your home and scale your solar system’s battery capacity.

High upfront cost

The Tesla Powerwall is a considerable investment, and it may take several years to recoup the initial expense through savings on your electricity bill.

Limited benefits without solar panels

If you don't have an existing solar system, the Powerwall's benefits are limited, and you may need to invest in solar panels to fully utilise its capabilities.

Installation requirements

The Powerwall may not be suitable for all homes, as it requires a wall-mounted installation with sufficient space and adequate ventilation.

Overall, the Tesla Powerwall can be a valuable investment for Australian homeowners, especially those with existing solar systems or those planning to install solar panels. The potential savings on electricity bills, increased energy independence, and backup power capabilities make it an attractive option for many.

The Tesla Powerwall can easily power your AC, but its ability to do so depends on the battery's remaining capacity, the air conditioner's energy usage, and your home's overall energy consumption.

For example, if your air conditioner uses 2 kW of power and your Powerwall has enough stored energy, it should be able to run the air conditioner for several hours. It's important to monitor your energy consumption using the Tesla app to ensure optimal performance.

The duration a Tesla Powerwall can power your home depends on factors like your energy consumption, the battery's capacity, and the amount of stored solar energy. In general, a fully charged Powerwall can provide power for up to 12-24 hours, depending on your usage patterns.

If you have multiple Powerwalls installed, the duration can be extended accordingly. Regularly monitoring your energy usage and adjusting your consumption habits can help you maximise your Powerwall's performance.

A professional, certified Tesla installer must handle the installation of your Powerwall to ensure proper operation and compliance with Australian standards.

The installation process typically involves a site inspection, securing necessary permits, and scheduling the actual installation. Once installed, the Powerwall requires minimal maintenance, as it's a sealed, liquid-cooled system with no user-serviceable components.

To optimise your Powerwall's performance, it's essential to monitor your energy consumption using the Tesla app, adjust your usage habits, and engage in load shifting when possible.

Load shifting involves using energy-intensive appliances, like washing machines and dishwashers, during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower. This can help you maximise the benefits of your Powerwall and reduce your electricity bill.

The Tesla Powerwall offers Australian homeowners an advanced energy storage solution that can help increase energy independence, provide backup power during outages, and potentially reduce electricity bills. 

If you’re eager to embrace a greener, more sustainable future with this cutting-edge energy storage solution - speak to Driva’s expert team today. We’ll help you secure the right loan for you to set you on your solar journey.

Can I add more than one Powerwall to my home? 

Yes, you can add multiple Powerwalls to increase your energy storage capacity and extend backup power duration.

Will the Tesla Powerwall be compatible with an existing solar system? 

Yes, the Powerwall is designed to work with new or existing solar systems and a wide range of inverters.

What happens during a power outage? 

In the event of a grid outage, the Powerwall can automatically switch to providing backup power for your home, ensuring continuous operation.

What is the warranty on a Tesla Powerwall? 

The Powerwall comes with a 10-year limited warranty, with a guaranteed minimum 70% aggregate throughput during the warranty period.