Tesla Powerwall 3 in Australia: Everything You Need to Know
The renowned US-based manufacturer Tesla has launched the latest version of its standalone home battery system, the Tesla Powerwall 3, in Australia and New Zealand. The Tesla Powerwall 2 has earned a reputation as one of the top residential battery modules on the market due to its efficiency and range of features. Now, with the release of its successor, Australian consumers can look forward to even more advanced capabilities.
The Tesla Powerwall 3 is a compact and powerful home battery system. Equipped with an integrated solar inverter, it allows you to capture and store more solar energy, leading to greater savings on your electricity bills and maximizing your solar energy usage. Read further to learn more about the Powerwall 3 and what it offers.
Tesla Powerwall 3 Specifications
| Nominal Battery Energy | 13.5 kWh |
| Maximum Continuous Discharge Power | 11.5 kW |
| Maximum Continuous Discharge Power Off-Grid (PV Only, –20°C to 25°C) | 15.4 kW |
| Maximum Continuous Charge Power | 5 kW |
| Output Power Factor Rating | 0 – 1 (Grid Code configurable) |
| Maximum Continuous Current | 48 A |
| Load Start Capability (1 s) | 185 A LRA |
| Power Scalability | Up to 4 Powerwall 3 units supported |
| Protections | Integrated arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI), Isolation Monitor Interrupter (IMI), PV Rapid Shutdown (RSD) using Tesla Mid-Circuit Interrupters |
| Customer Interface | Tesla Mobile App |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| Dimensions | 43.25 x 24 x 7.6 in (1099 x 609 x 193 mm) |
| Weight | 287 lb (130 kg) |
| Mounting Options | Floor or wall mount |
| Environment | Indoor and outdoor rated |
| Ingress Rating | IP67 (Battery & Power Electronics) IP45 (Wiring Compartment) |
Why Choose Tesla Powerwall 3 in Australia?
The Tesla Powerwall 3 is an advanced home battery system that offers numerous benefits for Australian homeowners. Here are some compelling reasons the Powerwall 3 stands out:
Integrated Solar Inverter
The Tesla Powerwall 3 comes with a built-in hybrid inverter that allows direct DC coupling, meaning less energy is lost during conversions. This results in greater efficiency and ensures that more of your solar power is captured and stored.
Expandable Design
The Powerwall 3 can be expanded by stacking up to 4 units, totaling 54 kWh of storage. This easily surpasses the energy needs of most Australian households, allowing you to scale up your system as your energy requirements grow.
Exceptional Value and Warranty
Tesla offers a comprehensive 10-year warranty with a 70% capacity retention guarantee and unlimited cycles. This robust warranty provides peace of mind, ensuring that your investment is protected and supported by an industry leader.
Active Thermal Management
The Powerwall 3 features a redesigned active thermal management system, optimizing its performance across all weather conditions. This ensures the battery remains efficient and reliable, extending its lifespan and suitability for various installation environments.
Increased Power Output
With a higher power output, the Powerwall 3 can handle more appliances simultaneously. This feature is crucial for larger households or those with high energy consumption, ensuring your home runs smoothly even during peak usage times.
How Much Does Tesla Powerwall 3 Cost in Australia?
The Tesla Powerwall 3 is priced at AUD 13,600 ($9,100), which includes AUD 1,700 for the mandatory backup Gateway 2 system, essential for integrating with the grid and rooftop solar. Its faster installation process and scalability for energy expansions offer cost savings, making it an even more appealing option for homeowners.
Powerwall 3 in Australia: When It Makes Sense and When It Doesn’t
When Powerwall 3 Makes Sense
1. Starting from Scratch
If you’re installing a new solar system or replacing an old one, the Powerwall 3 is a solid choice. It supports up to 20kW of solar panels, covering most Australian rooftops. The integrated inverter allows for a quicker, cleaner installation, while its strong power output offers flexibility in backup options and potential earnings through Virtual Power Plants (VPPs). Future kWh expansions are also simple.
When Powerwall 3 Might Make Sense
1. Upgrading a Small Solar System
If you have a 5kW or smaller solar setup, the Powerwall 3 could be compatible through “AC-coupling up to 5kW of solar.” However, this integration is new in Australia, so it may be wise to wait and see how it performs.
2. You Already Have Big Solar
For those with large solar systems (over 6.6kW), the Powerwall 3 isn’t designed to directly integrate with your existing inverter. While it might be possible to reconnect your solar array to the Powerwall 3, this could lead to regulatory, technical, and warranty challenges. It might be safer to leave your solar system as is and consider a battery designed for AC-coupling.
3. Three-Phase Homes
You can use a Powerwall 3 in a three-phase home, but it has limitations. It won’t offer full three-phase backup capabilities, and your solar won’t operate during grid outages if you have a three-phase solar inverter.
When Powerwall 3 Does Not Make Sense
1. Enphase or SolarEdge Fans
If you’re committed to Enphase or SolarEdge systems, particularly for complex roofs, the Powerwall 3 isn’t ideal. It’s not built to integrate smoothly with panel-level optimization, whether microinverters or SolarEdge.
2. Off-Gridders
If you’re living off-grid or planning to, the Powerwall 3 isn’t suitable as it’s not designed for off-grid use. Choose systems specifically engineered for off-grid living by experts in that field.
3. Expanding a Powerwall 2 System
If you already have a Powerwall 2, it’s best to stick with it. Adding another Powerwall 2 is much smoother than trying to integrate a Powerwall 3. For those with a Powerwall 2, the release of the Powerwall 3 might be a good reason to purchase a second unit while they’re still available.
Wrapping Up: Tesla Powerwall 3 in Australia
The Tesla Powerwall 3 offers impressive advancements in battery technology. To ensure it meets your needs, consult a solar installer to assess your system requirements and get expert advice on whether the Powerwall 3 is the best option.