Tesla has done it again!
The Powerwall 3, Tesla’s latest home battery system, arrived in the UK in June. It’s set to revolutionise how we store and use energy in our homes.
The latest Powerwall iteration builds on the success of its predecessors, offering more power, improved efficiency and smarter features. This blog looks into what makes the Powerwall 3 an excellent investment for home energy storage.
What’s new in Powerwall 3?
The Powerwall 3 isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a reimagining of home energy storage. It has a built-in solar inverter which means your solar panels can connect directly to the battery, storing energy more efficiently. You’ll see up to 97.5% efficiency, a significant jump from the Powerwall 2’s 90%.
Power output has also seen a massive boost. The Powerwall 3 can now deliver up to 11.04kW of continuous AC power, more than doubling the 5kW output of the Powerwall 2. This increase means you can power more of your home’s high-energy devices simultaneously, even during a grid outage.
Tesla has also implemented an active thermal management system in the Powerwall 3. This clever addition helps maintain optimal operating temperatures, enhancing its performance and longevity. It’s a testament to Tesla’s commitment to creating products that last.
The battery chemistry has been updated, too. Tesla now uses Lithium Ferro Phosphate (LFP) in the Powerwall 3, moving away from the Lithium Manganese Cobalt (LNMC) used in previous versions. LFP batteries are lighter, more sustainable and last longer.
Key features and specifications
Let’s talk numbers. The Powerwall 3 retains the 13.5kWh energy storage capacity of its predecessor. But don’t let that fool you – this isn’t a case of ‘same old, same old’. The increased power output means you can draw more energy at once, making the Powerwall 3 suitable for powering energy-hungry appliances like electric showers or heat pumps.
On the solar front, the Powerwall 3 can handle up to 20kW of solar input. It boasts three separate solar inputs, giving you more flexibility in your solar panel setup.
Tesla has enhanced its backup capabilities, too. In the event of a power cut, the Powerwall 3 can switch to backup mode in a fraction of a second. You won’t even notice the transition. Plus, with its increased power output, it can keep more of your household running during an outage.
Design and installation
The Powerwall 3 is a sleek piece of kit. It measures 1099mm x 609mm x 193mm and weighs in at just 130kg. You can mount it on the floor or wall, giving you flexibility in placement. Its IP55 rating means it’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor installation.
It’s also stackable, which is one of its most exciting new design features. Soon, you’ll be able to add expansion packs to your Powerwall 3, increasing your energy storage capacity. You can add up to four units, with each expansion pack adding 40.5kWh. This modular approach means you can start small and scale up as your energy needs grow.
Smart energy management
The Powerwall 3 isn’t just about storing energy; it’s about using it intelligently. Through the Tesla app, you can monitor and control your energy use in real time. You can see how much energy you’re producing, storing and using at any given moment.
But it goes beyond monitoring. The app allows you to optimise your energy use based on your specific needs and preferences. You can set the system to prioritise self-consumption of solar energy, or to charge from the grid when electricity rates are low. The Powerwall 3 can even learn from your usage patterns and weather forecasts to make smart decisions about energy storage and use.
Compatibility and integration
Whether you’re starting from scratch or adding to an existing solar setup, the Powerwall 3 has you covered. For new installations, the DC-coupled option allows for the direct connection of solar panels to the battery. If you’ve already got a solar system, the AC-coupled version will work with your existing inverter.
The Powerwall 3 is designed to play nice with the grid, too. It supports both single-phase and three-phase power systems, making it suitable for a wide range of homes. In the event of a power cut, its islanding capabilities mean it can disconnect from the grid and keep your home running independently.
Environmental considerations
Tesla has designed the Powerwall 3 to withstand a wide range of environmental conditions. It can operate in temperatures from -20°C to 50°C, making it suitable for use in most climates. Its IP55 rating means it’s protected against dust ingress and low-pressure water jets from any direction.
Noise levels are impressively low. At a distance of one metre, the Powerwall 3 typically operates at less than 50 decibels (dB), about as loud as a quiet conversation at home. Even at maximum output, it doesn’t exceed 62dB, which is still quieter than normal conversation.
Warranty and long-term performance
Tesla stands behind the Powerwall 3 with a ten-year warranty. It covers unlimited cycles, giving you peace of mind no matter how often you use your battery. After a decade of use, the Powerwall 3 is guaranteed to retain at least 80% of its original energy capacity.
The switch to LFP battery chemistry is expected to improve Powerwall 3’s long-term performance. LFP batteries typically have a longer cycle life than LNMC batteries, potentially extending your Powerwall’s service life beyond the warranty period.
Comparison with previous models
The Powerwall 3 represents a significant leap forward from the Powerwall 2. The integrated inverter, increased power output and improved efficiency are the standout upgrades. If you’re an existing Powerwall 2 owner, these improvements might make an upgrade tempting. However, it’s worth noting that you can’t extend a Powerwall 2 system with a Powerwall 3, so a complete system replacement would be necessary.
While the initial investment in a Powerwall 3 is significant, it can lead to long-term savings. Storing excess solar energy and using it when grid electricity is expensive can significantly reduce your energy bills. The exact savings will depend on your energy use patterns and local electricity rates. The Powerwall 3’s versatility shines in its real-world applications. For whole home backup, a single Powerwall 3 can keep most homes running during a power outage, thanks to its increased power output. If you prefer, you can set up partial home backup, prioritising essential circuits to extend your backup time.
The Powerwall 3 also integrates seamlessly with time-of-use tariffs. You can set it to charge when electricity is cheap and discharge when it’s expensive, maximising your savings. It’s even compatible with intelligent tariffs like Octopus Flux, allowing for even smarter energy management.
How can Electrical Innovations (Derby) Ltd help?
The Tesla Powerwall 3 represents a significant step forward in home energy storage. Its increased power output, improved efficiency and intelligent features make it a compelling option for homeowners looking to take control of their energy use.
As we move towards a more distributed, renewable energy future, systems like the Powerwall 3 will play an increasingly important role. Whether you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint, cut your energy bills or ensure power security, the Powerwall 3 offers a powerful solution.
The future of home energy is here, and it’s more accessible than ever. Give us a call today to learn more about how we can help you take advantage by investing in a Powerwall 3.
