Energy storage and backup power systems
Battery storage has gone mainstream. But is it right for your home? Here's everything you need to know about costs, performance, and whether the investment makes sense.
TLDR: The Powerwall 3 costs $14,500 installed, down to $10,150 after the 30% tax credit. It offers 13.5 kWh storage and includes a built-in inverter. Best for new solar installations.
TLDR: Tesla Powerwall 3 is best for new solar. Enphase IQ is best for retrofits. Generac and SolarEdge offer competitive alternatives. Here's how they all compare.
TLDR: Batteries cost $10,000-$15,000 and run silently with no fuel. Generators cost $8,000-$15,000 but need gas/propane and maintenance. Batteries win for short outages; generators for extended ones.
TLDR: Virtual power plants pay $50-$500/year to use your home battery during grid emergencies. Tesla, Sunrun, and utilities offer programs. Your battery helps prevent blackouts and you get paid.
Residential battery installations tripled since 2022. Beyond backup power, savvy homeowners are gaming utility rates to save hundreds monthly. Here's how the economics really work.