Energy costs in the United States are higher than ever. That’s why more people are adding solar panels to their homes and utilizing solar energy.
Unfortunately, solar panels themselves don’t store the energy they create. So that’s why you need a solar inverter and a storage unit for your precious energy.
While Tesla was an early trailblazer in solar technology, the industry is booming with various alternative options worth considering. Continue reading to discover the best alternatives to the Tesla Powerwall.
Best-Of by Category
Category | Product |
---|---|
Best Tesla Powerwall Alternative Overall | Generac PWRcell |
Best Powerwall for Home Solar Systems | Panasonic evervoLt 2.0 EVHB-L63 |
Best Smart Management Modules | ElectrIQ Power Pod 2 |
Cheapest Tesla Powerwall Alternative | Enphase IQ Battery 10 |
Highest Storage Capacity | Fortress eVault Max 18.5kWh LFP Battery |
Smartest Battery Technology | LG Energy Solution RESU16 H-Prime |
Best Powerwall Warranty | Sonnen EcoLinx 12 |
Highest Round Trip Efficiency | Q.cells Q.HOME ESS HYB-G1 |
Best Powerwall for Tesla Solar Roofs | Energizer Homepower |
Best Tesla Powerwall Alternatives
While the Tesla Powerwall is an innovative device with many great features, some homeowners prefer other reputable brands’ superior functions, capacities, and outputs. Not all solar panel batteries are the same, so knowing the difference between a great Powerwall alternative and one that doesn’t come up to par is essential. After comparing the specs, speaking to experts, and reading reviews, I found that this list has the best batteries on the market to store excess solar energy.
Find the best alternatives to the Tesla Powerwall below. Whether you want protection during blackouts or to go off the grid, you’ll find the best Powerwall for home solar systems, the cheapest options, the smartest choices, and the best Powerwall alternative for Tesla solar roofs.
Ready to discover which devices outshine the Tesla Powerwall? Let’s dive in!
1. Best Tesla Powerwall Alternative Overall: Generac PWRcell
The Generac PWRcell is one of the top Tesla Powerwall alternatives overall because it offers everything most solar panel owners need at a market-standard price. This compact and efficient battery storage system offers homeowners up to 18kWh of backup power.
Whether you want protection from power outages or want to save money on your utility bills, Generac PWRcell allows user to customize their solar battery system to meet their usage needs.
This small and powerful energy storage solution is easy to install and manage with the PWRmanager in the PWRview app. Here, users can monitor their energy usage and use auto-transfer switch (ATS) features to switch from the grid to off-grid energy usage.
Generac PWRcell boasts battery inverters that store up to 36kWh. With the Generac PWRcell, homeowners can enjoy 18kWh of usable energy with 9kW off-grid and 7.6kW grid-tied continuous and instant power ratings.
This AC/DC powerwall alternative offers 96.5% DC to DC round-trip efficiency. The Generac PWRcell is a battery system with a ten-year limited warranty. Should something happen within your device’s lifespan, the Generac customer support team is helpful and easy to contact.
Generac PWRcell energy storage system typically costs homeowners $20,000 before installation, which, on average, is what you should expect to spend on a solar battery storage unit anyhow. With high round-trip efficiency, extensive storage capabilities, a ten-year warranty, and AC/DC couplings, this powerwall is one of the best alternatives to the Tesla Powerwall.
Pros
- Easy to install and customize
- Three Lithium-ion battery modules
- Compatible with the Generac PWRView app
- Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)
- Sleek, tall, and slim design
Cons
- More expensive than Tesla
Homeowners installing a Generac PWRcell battery storage system can save an estimated $66,000 in energy costs over 25 years.
While Generac PWRcell is more costly than the Tesla Powerwall, it’s a fantastic alternative if you want 96.5% round-trip efficiency instead of Tesla’s 90%.
See Related: Sunrun vs Tesla: What’s Better?
2. Best Powerwall for Home Solar Systems: Panasonic evervoLt 2.0 EVHB-L6
The Panasonic evervoLt 2.0 EVHB-L6 is one of the best Tesla Powerwall alternatives because it’s compatible with nearly every home solar energy system and offers more storage than the Tesla Powerwall. With a compact and attractive design, the Panasonic evervoLt 2.0 EVHB-L6 stores significant amounts of energy to protect your home during blackouts or save money during cost spikes during peak usage hours.
Families using the Panasonic powerwall alternative can get money back using the net energy metering program and add clean energy to their neighborhood power grid. The battery modules are stackable, so your system can grow with your usage needs.
The Panasonic evervoLt 2.0 EVHB-L6 has a battery inverter size of up to 17.1kWh with 17.5kWh of usable capacity. Families with this modern-looking device in their homes will enjoy 7.6kWh off-grid continuous power ratings and 9.6kWh grid-tied instant power ratings.
With AC power and DC-coupled battery inverters, users will experience efficient energy transfers for all solar systems. The Panasonic evervoLt 2.0 EVHB-L6 boasts the same 90% round-trip efficiency as the Tesla Powerwall but gets up to 17.1kWh instead of Tesla’s 13.5 kWh usage capacity.
This innovative energy storage system for home solar panels includes a ten-year or 6,000-cycle warranty. Expect to spend around $20,000 on your Panasonic evervoLt 2.0 EVHB-L6.
Pros
- Net energy metering program
- Standalone or capable of grouping as energy needs grow
- Compatible with all solar systems and the Evervolt mobile app
- Weatherproof and outdoor-rated
- Lithium-ion batteries
Cons
- Evervolt app can be finicky
- More expensive than Tesla
From the trusted Panasonic name, users know they’re buying innovative technology with the Panasonic evervoLt 2.0 EVHB-L6 battery storage system. Whether you have an existing solar panel roof or are considering installing one, this alternative to the Tesla Powerwall is a worthy choice.
See Related: Best Off-Grid Greenhouse Heating Systems
3. Best Smart Management Modules: ElectrIQ Power Pod 2
The ElectrIQ Power Pod 2 is one of the best smart management modules for homeowners who love watching their energy usage on their desktop or mobile devices. The ElectrIQ Power app offers solar system owners production, consumption, and battery storage data.
With this smart home energy storage system, you can correlate utility rates, predict how the weather will affect energy production, switch to lower consumption during peak hours, and view usage history. The ElectrIQ Power Pod 2 boasts a 7.6kWh battery inverter with usage capacities of 10kWh, 15kWh, and 20kWh.
This AC/DC-coupled battery is a Tesla Powerwall alternative with optimal outputs of 9.12kWh instant power ratings and 7.6kWh continuous power ratings on off-grid and grid-tiered settings. Homeowners with the ElectrIQ Power Pod 2 will experience sky-high round-trip efficiency. This powerful and highly efficient battery storage system offers 97.6% round-trip efficiency for DC-coupled PV (MAX) and 97.2% for PV (CEC).
With a ten-year, limited warranty, families can enjoy a decade of peace of mind knowing their home energy storage system will function optimally. The ElectrIQ Power Pod 2 suits budgets ranging from $15,000 to $20,000.
Pros
- OpenADR 2.0b-certified
- Sleek, modern design
- High capacity to protect against power outages and save money on electricity bills
- Outdoor rated
- Compatible with the ElectrIQ Power app
Cons
- More expensive than Tesla
The ElectrIQ Power Pod 2 is one of the best home solar energy storage systems for those at high altitudes or in climates with hot temperatures and rolling blackouts. This compact but high-capacity storage system is outdoor-rated and withstands temperatures between -4 to 131 degrees Fahrenheit and altitudes up to 10,000 feet. The compatible ElectrIQ Power app allows users to easily adjust their energy usage settings or monitor their savings.
See Related: Do Teslas Use Gas? Here’s What to Know
4. Cheapest Tesla Powerwall Alternative: Enphase IQ Battery 10
The Enphase IQ Battery 10 is the cheapest Tesla Powerwall alternative with the most features. This impressive power bank is stackable with other Enphase IQ Battery 10 to increase your energy storage needs as your usage grows.
The Enphase IQ Battery 10 offers 10.08kWh of usable capacity with a peak continuous power rating of 5.76kVA, similar to Tesla’s 5.8kVA. The rated output power of 3.84 kVA is perfect for serving as a backup generator for your home during storms.
The Enphase IQ Battery 10’s passive functions make this machine stand out as one of the best alternative powerwalls for the Tesla brand. With no moving parts, your battery storage system will stay cool, ensuring systems run optimally.
This AC-coupled battery and energy storage unit boasts 96% DC round-trip efficiency and 89% AC round-trip efficiency. It provides reliable electricity during power outages or peak usage times. It is best suited for AC-powered households.
The Enphase IQ Battery 10 includes a ten-year or 7,300-cycle limited warranty so homeowners can enjoy a decade of optimal output from their device. This stylish-looking solar system power storage unit suits budgets ranging from $7,000 to $18,000, making it one of the most affordable Powerwall alternatives with many useful features.
Pros
- 12 embedded IQ8X-BAT Microinverters
- Three IQ Battery 3 storage units
- Utility time of use (TOU) optimization
- Grid-forming capability
- Compact and modern design
Cons
- Lower-than-average output
The Enphase IQ Battery 10 is a great power bank alternative to the Tesla brand if you’re looking for a compact and efficient battery storage system for your home solar panels. With an eye-catching price tag, this option is great for homeowners who need power during short blackouts or want to save money on their electricity bills. Though the Enphase IQ Battery 10 only stores 10.08kWh of usable energy, this compact device can help offset energy costs and power necessary devices during power outages for a great ROI.
See Related: Best Solar Power Banks to Buy Today
5. Highest Storage Capacity: Fortress eVault Max 18.5kWh LFP Battery
The Fortress eVault Max 18.5kWh LFP battery is one of the best solar batteries for high-energy storage solutions. This high-capacity powerwall alternative is a fantastic option for residential and commercial spaces that want to invest in clean energy.
Whether you have solar panels in your warehouse or your poolhouse, the Fortress eVault Max offers 18.5kWh of usable capacity with additional battery options for up to 370kWh. That’s right, 370kWh of stored energy is needed for your business or family.
The Fortress eVault Max 18.5kWh LFP battery offers a continuous power rating of 9.2kW with an astonishing 98% round-trip efficiency. This AC/DC-coupled powerwall includes security and safety features to avoid fires, electrical overheating, or other malfunctions. However, should anything go wrong, the ten-year limited warranty covers your Fortress eVault Max.
Budget approximately $18,000 for your Fortress eVault Max 18.5kWh LFP battery. The price will increase depending on how many additional batteries you choose for your home or company.
Pros
- Lithium Iron Phosphate battery
- Overcharge, over-current, over-heat, and discharge protection
- IP55 rating for water and dust protection
- Ideal for peak charge reduction, off-grid, backup power, and self-supply
- Closed-loop communication with inverters
Cons
- More expensive than the Tesla Powerwall
Powerwall alternatives provide the opportunity to save money on the cost of utilities and earn money by selling excess energy. For example, with the Fortress eVault Max 18.5kWh LFP battery, you can store a significant amount of useable energy to sell or for personal use.
This highly reviewed solar energy storage system is ideal for those who want an advanced battery with high storage capacity. Whether you want to power your home during blackouts, reduce electricity costs, or get tax rebates for going green, this device is an excellent pick.
See Related: Solar vs Wind Energy: What’s the Difference?
6. Smartest Battery Technology: LG Energy Solution RESU16 H-Prime
The LG Energy Solution RESU16 H-Prime solar battery system boasts the legendary LG chem battery for reliable and efficient energy storage and output. After recalls of the RESU10 model due to overheating, the new and improved LG Energy Solution RESU16 H-Prime is equipped with additional safety features to reduce overheating and chances of electrical fires.
The LG Energy Solution RESU16 H-Prime is a fantastic home energy storage solution with 16kWh usable capacity. This powerful device is compatible with home solar systems and offers a 7kW max charge continuous power rating with peak power discharges of 11kW for ten seconds.
Enjoy high efficiency with the LG Energy Solution RESU16 H-Prime’s DC-power coupling, which has >90% round-trip efficiency. All LG Energy Solution RESU16 H-Prime power storage units have the trusted LG name.
You’ll also have a ten-year limited warranty that covers issues you may encounter throughout this long-lived device’s lifespan. Budget around $17,000 for the LG Energy Solution RESU16 H-Prime and smart LG chem batteries, including installation costs.
Pros
- IP55 rating for water and dust protection
- Lightweight (111 kgs) and compact
- Safety features like over vault, overcurrent, and short circuit protection
- Largest lithium-ion LG chem RESU battery
- Stackable up to 32kWh capacity
Cons
- More expensive than Tesla
The LG Energy Solution RESU16 H-Prime is the winner for one of the smartest and easy-to-use lithium-ion battery systems.
This extremely easy-to-use Tesla Powerwall alternative is an excellent choice for homes that want 16kWh of useable energy instead of the Tesla Powerwall’s 13.5kWh.
Boasting one of the smartest LG chem RESU battery systems, this trustworthy Powerwall alternative is backed by LG’s reputable name and ten-year warranty, so homeowners can use this device problem-free for at least a decade.
See Related: Best Solar Power Banks to Buy Today
7. Best Powerwall Warranty: Sonnen EcoLinx 12
The Sonnen EcoLinx 12 is one of the top Tesla Powerwall alternatives if you want a longer than industry-standard warranty. While most systems offer five or ten-year warranties, the Sonnen EcoLinx 12 has a whopping 15-year limited warranty on its solar batteries.
This sleek and compact home solar battery offers homeowners 12kWh of usable capacity to reduce monthly electricity costs and power their homes during blackouts. The Sonnen EcoLinx 12 has a continuous power rating of 8kW for off-grid output and a 7kW instant power rating for grid-tied output.
The Sonnen EcoLinx 12’s AC-coupled battery offers homeowners 81.6% AC/AC round-trip efficiency. It has the longest quality guarantee, with a 15-year or 15,000-cycle warranty. You can install this powerful device and enjoy monitoring its optimal performance on the compatible app as the terrible two turns into young adults.
This energy storage solution is the most expensive option on this list. You must budget around $35,000 for this innovative and smart Tesla powerwall alternative. The Sonnen EcoLinx 12 has an energy rewards program where you can sell excess energy back to the grid to see an ROI from this device.
Pros
- Compatible with most existing solar systems
- Scaleable from 12 kWh to 20 kWh in 2kWh increments
- Energy rewards program
- Safety features, like short-circuiting, overloading, and over-heating protection
- Sleek and compact design
Cons
- The most expensive option on this list
If you have an existing home solar system or are interested in installing one, the Sonnen EcoLinx 12 is an excellent choice for a long-lasting device that can grow with your needs. Stack additional batteries to store more and sell anything you don’t need back to the grid.
While this home Powerwall alternative is more expensive than the Tesla, the Sonnen EcoLinx 12 15-year warranty provides an additional five years of coverage. Users find this home battery highly functional and easy to use, even with an existing solar system installed.
See Related: Tesla Auto Loan Overview: How to Get the Best Terms From Tesla
8. Highest Round Trip Efficiency: Q.cells Q.HOME ESS HYB-G1
The Q.cells Q.HOME ESS HYB-G1 is a fantastic option if you’re looking for the highest round-trip efficiency in a home energy storage device. Plus, you can connect up to three batteries for additional capacity when needed.
The Q.cells Q.HOME ESS HYB-G1 Powerwall alternative boasts the following efficiency ratings:
- 96.7% round-trip efficiency from the solar system to the grid
- 98.3% round-trip efficiency from the solar system to the battery
- 96.5% round-trip efficiency from the battery to the grid
These high percentages mean the Q.cells Q.HOME ESS HYB-G1 far outshines the Tesla Powerwall’s ~90% efficiency. This impressive battery unit for solar panels is compatible with the Q.cells Q.HOME mobile app and web platform. Here, you can monitor your usage, view your storage, and adjust settings with a button.
The Q.cells Q.HOME ESS HYB-G1 starts with a 4.5kWh storage capacity and is stackable to 18.9kWh. You’ll experience between 7.2kW to 10.32kW PV DATA max input power with three subs.
This powerful AC/DC-coupled Powerwall alternative boasts between 6.6kW and 8.3kW of AC backup power output. The Q.cells Q.HOME ESS HYB-G1’s amazing features include a ten-year limited warranty and 90% discharge depth.
The Q.cells Q.HOME ESS HYB-G1 is one of the most affordable options on this list, especially for homeowners that only need 4.5kWh of storage. Budget between $10,000 to $17,000 for the Q.cells Q.HOME ESS HYB-G1, depending on how much electricity you want to store.
Pros
- Cheaper than most options on this list
- Scaleable from 4.5kWh to 18.8 kWh
- Modular design for fast and easy installation
- Premium-quality lithium-ion battery
- Hybrid system with PV inverter
Cons
- Low starting storage capacity
Q.cells Q.HOME ESS HYB-G1 is an exceptional alternative to the Tesla Powerwall with the highest efficiency ratings of all the options on this list. While the first battery unit stores about four hours of power for blackouts or peak usage times, these stackable battery systems allow you to try out solar panels and store energy at a low cost. Reviewers continually boast about the intuitive app and mobile platform to monitor your usage and device outputs.
See Related: Best Solar-Powered Laptops to Buy Today
9. Best Powerwall for Tesla Solar Roofs: Energizer Homepower
Energizer Homepower is one of the best Tesla Powerwall alternatives for Tesla solar roofs, backed by the reputable Energizer name. If you’re looking for the best Powerwall alternative for existing solar systems and Tesla solar panels, the Energizer Homepower solar inverter is an ideal choice.
When it comes to batteries, Energizer is a trusted name. So, it’s no surprise that their take on the Tesla Powerwall is an exceptional device with all the features and storage capacity needed for most families.
With this sleek device, you’ll get 6.1kWh with the main unit and up to 24.4kWh with three subs. This AC/DC-power coupled device can deliver up to 16A max output. Explore the features on the Energizer Homepower Android and iOS app or the web portal. Here, you’ll see information like the 94% max solar inverter efficiency, usage data, etc.
The Energizer Homepower is backed by a ten-year or 10,000-cycle limited warranty so homeowners can experience clean energy for decades. At around $8,000 to $9,000, the Energizer Homepower is an affordable device that rivals the Tesla Powerwall.
Pros
- Compatible with the Energizer Homepower app and web portal
- Weatherproof for indoor or outdoor storage
- Sleek onyx black or arctic white design
- Stackable up to 24.4kWh with three subs
- 95% depth of discharge (DOD)
Cons
- Starting storage capacity lower than Tesla
The Energizer Homepower is an excellent decision that can lower your home energy bills and protect you during blackouts. While this device has a lower starting storage capacity than the Tesla Powerwall, it’s stackable to meet user needs.
This inexpensive battery solution for solar panels and home solar systems is perfect for existing systems or those who want to try solar energy for the first time. Experience the benefits of switching to solar energy by investing in an exceptional energy storage system like the Energizer Homepower battery.
FAQs
Is there a Powerwall competitor?
Yes, Tesla’s Powerwall has several competitors. One of the most notable is LG Chem RESU, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery system that stores excess energy generated by solar panels or other renewable energy sources.
Is Tesla Powerwall still the best?
Tesla Powerwall is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery designed for residential use. While it was once considered the best option for home energy storage, many competitors now offer similar products with different features and price points. Ultimately, the best option for a particular household depends on their energy needs and budget.
Is Enphase better than Tesla?
Enphase and Tesla are two companies that offer different energy solutions. While Enphase specializes in microinverter systems for solar energy production, Tesla provides various energy storage solutions, such as Powerwalls and Powerpacks. Comparing the two companies isn’t easy as they offer different products and services for different energy needs. Ultimately, the choice between Enphase and Tesla will depend on individual energy needs and preferences.
Is it worth it to have Tesla Powerwall?
The Tesla Powerwall is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery designed for residential use. It is worth having one to reduce your reliance on the grid and have a backup power source during outages. Additionally, the Powerwall can help you save money on your electricity bill by storing excess energy generated by solar panels or during off-peak hours for use during peak hours.
Related Resources
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- How to Make a Mobile Home More Energy Efficient