Are Tesla Powerwalls Worth It?

When it comes to all-electric and sustainable energy solutions, Tesla’s flagship Powerwall solar battery has emerged as a beacon of thought leadership.

Renowned the world-over, Powerwall is a product that’s single handedly changing the way homeowners think about – and relate to – the idea of solar energy.

But how?

The fusion of solar energy and state-of-the-art solar battery storage technology holds the promise of long-term financial gain. In this article, we aim to uncover whether the Tesla Powerwall lives up to its hype. As we journey through the intricacies of this world-renowned technological innovation, we’ll dive into the specifics of Tesla’s technology, unveil its advantages, and evaluate its cost-effectiveness within the context of Australia’s energy sector.

Ready? Let’s start with the basics.

What is a Solar Battery?

In essence, a solar battery operates as an energy reservoir, capturing excess energy generated by solar panels.

Solar batteries are generally installed by residences and/or businesses that have also have a solar photovoltaic system installed (aka solar panels). The solar battery’s role is to allow the solar system to store energy generated so that it can be used for any of the following reasons:

• To power the house/business in the case of a power failure or in low-light conditions
• To assist with stabilising the grid beyond the residence/business
• To store, export and sell excess energy as part of the home/business’ membership to a Virtual Power Plant (VPP) program

Why should I install a solar battery?

Installing a solar battery like Tesla Powerwall is a brilliant decision for any Victorian who’s considering solar. Here’s why:

Energy self-sufficiency: A standout attribute of the Tesla Powerwall and other solar batteries is the solar battery’s capability to usher in energy autonomy. When the conventional grid falters, the Powerwall seamlessly steps in as the primary energy source for your home or business. This is particularly useful within the context of Victoria, where dynamic weather conditions can disrupt conventional energy supply.

Optimisation of energy usage: Given the fluctuating electricity rates in Victoria as dictated by demand, the Tesla Powerwall solar battery emerges as a strategic asset to all customers with solar systems installed. By accumulating energy during off-peak hours and utilising that same energy during hours of peak usage, homeowners just like you can orchestrate significant reductions in electricity bills.

Access a dependable backup source: In regions susceptible to power outages, the Powerwall’s ability to function as a backup power source is invaluable. Gone are the days where you’ll need to rely on noisy generators or other unreliable sources of backup. Having Powerwall means that your most crucial appliances and devices can continue functioning seamlessly.

Get the most from your solar: What’s the point of having clean energy for your home or business if the excess energy you generate goes nowhere? Tesla Powerwall allows you to not only generate backup power, but export your excess energy too – which can act as an additional source of income, potentially eliminating your power bills all together!

Keen to start making money from your solar? Check out our incredible VPP partnership with Simply Energy here.

Is Tesla Powerwall Expensive?

While the initial financial outlay for incorporating a solar battery system, such as the Tesla Powerwall, might appear steep, the ultimate question is whether or not you value short-term cost over long-term gains.

Have you ever heard of the statement “false economy”? Let’s take a closer look at this.

“False economy” is a term used to describe a situation in which an apparent financial saving leads to additional costs or negative consequences in the long run. In other words, it refers to making a decision that seems cost-effective at first glance but ends up being more expensive or problematic over time. It highlights the idea that focusing solely on short-term cost savings can lead to greater expenses, inefficiencies, or unfavourable outcomes in the future.

Recent data underscores a consistent downtrend in solar battery costs throughout Australia. Notably, the expense of lithium-ion batteries, which power the Tesla Powerwall, has plummeted by nearly 80% over the past decade.

Peering deeper into the question of short-term cost vs. long-term savings, insights from the Australian Photovoltaic Institute illuminate the prospect of homeowners reaping up to 10% return on investment over a ten-year period. This intricate analysis underscores that while the initial investment might appear formidable, the accrued savings over time could substantially outweigh the upfront expenses.

Ultimately, how much you pay for your Tesla Powerwall will depend on the way you purchase it. There are currently three main ways to purchase Tesla Powerwall:

• Outright (without rebates or deals)
• Taking into account solar battery rebates in Victoria
• As part of a Virtual Power Plant (VPP) membership such as our partnership with Simply Energy, mentioned above

Are there Rebates for Tesla Powerwall in Victoria?

Yes. There are a number of government rebates and incentives which make buying a high-quality solar or solar battery storage product (like Tesla Powerwall) a much more accessible prospect.

Victoria’s dedication to renewable energy is mirrored in the assortment of incentives and rebates extended to stimulate the adoption of solar energy. Our state, for instance, boasts the Solar Homes Program, a platform that proffers rebates for eligible installations of solar panels and batteries. As of 2023, homeowners in Victoria stand to gain considerable advantages by incorporating a Tesla Powerwall into their energy setup.

What are the Tech Specs of Tesla Powerwall?

The Tesla Powerwall is no longer just a concept; it’s a meticulously engineered reality. Let’s delve into the technical intricacies that make this innovation the choice of savvy solar owners everywhere:

• Capacity: A substantial 13.5 kWh, allowing for extensive energy storage
• Output: Peaks at 7 kW and sustains at 5 kW continuously, facilitating efficient energy transfer
• Efficiency: Boasting over 90% efficiency, ensuring minimal energy loss
• Dimensions: Compact at 1150 mm x 753 mm x 147 mm, it offers versatile mounting options for diverse spaces
• Durability: With resistance to water and dust (IP67) and a robust structure, the Powerwall is built to endure varying weather conditions
• Installation options: Floor or wall-mounted, suitable for indoor and outdoor settings
• Temperature operating range: Operating in temperatures from -20°C to 50°C, making it adaptable to Australia’s climate
• Relevant certifications: Complies with Australian local safety standards and regulations, ensuring reliability
• Warranty: A robust 10-year warranty, providing peace of mind to all customers

These specifications help Powerwall stand out amongst other solar batteries on the market. However, ultimately, determining which solar battery is right for you will depend on a range of factors including:

• You energy needs
• Your upfront budget
• The availability of solar rebates and incentives in your area

The best option? Speak with a trusted Victorian solar battery installer and retailer like G Store to get the right advice on all of the above. With over 15+ years of trusted solar expertise, we can even help you calculate the incentives for which you’re eligible.

Wrapping up

To learn more about our full range of solar and solar battery storage solutions, visit our Learning Centre or give our award-winning G Store team a call today on 1300 137 567.

We can’t wait to chat with you.