Tesla Powerwall 3
Battery Review
Last updated: 18 July 2025
Table of Contents
- 1. Is Tesla’s New Battery Worth the Hype in Australia?
- 2. Quick Pros & Cons
- 3. Who Should Consider a Tesla Battery in 2025?
- 4. About Tesla Energy
- 5. Tesla in Australia
- 6. Tesla Powerwall Model Range
- 7. Tesla Powerwall 3 Key Specs (Australia)
- 8. Expanded Pros & Cons of the Tesla Powerwall 3
- 9. Support, Warranty & Local Presence
- 10. Ask Us Anything
- 11. Downloadable Documents
- 12. Final Verdict: Should You Buy a Tesla Powerwall 3 in 2025?
Is Tesla’s New Battery Worth the Hype in Australia?
If you’re exploring home batteries in 2025, chances are you’ve come across the Tesla Powerwall 3. As the latest evolution of Tesla’s energy storage lineup, the Powerwall 3 builds on the success of the Powerwall 2 but brings major upgrades in power output, integration, and scalability.
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With 13.5 kWh of usable storage, up to 11.5 kW of continuous power, and seamless whole-home backup, Powerwall 3 offers a powerful and sleek all-in-one solar and battery solution. It also supports up to 20 kW of solar DC input, making it one of the few battery systems in Australia that can handle large solar arrays without an external inverter.
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But is it the right fit for your home, and how does it compare to alternatives like Sungrow, BYD or Enphase? Let’s take a closer look.
Quick Pros & Cons
Pros
- Built-in solar inverter with direct DC solar input up to 20 kW
- High continuous power output: 11.5 kW AC per unit
- Designed for whole-home backup with seamless transition
- Smart app controls with flexible energy management profiles
- Compact, all-in-one unit with wall or floor mounting options
- Ideal for new solar installs. No external inverter needed
- Compatible with Tesla's expanding Virtual Power Plant programs
Cons
- Fixed 13.5 kWh capacity per unit. No sub-unit modularity
- AC output only. No direct DC output for off-grid systems
- Higher upfront cost than many hybrid battery systems
- Availability and installation access can be limited in some areas
This reflects the true hybrid nature of the Powerwall 3 accepting DC input from solar and delivering AC output, with the inverter built into the unit.
Tesla Powerwall 3 Battery Performance Matrix
Technical Performance
User Experience
Trust & Support
Overall Score
88%
88%
Tesla Powerwall 3 delivers high performance and intelligent energy control in a sleek, all-in-one package. It’s an excellent choice for new builds or full system upgrades where backup, smart features, and inverter replacement are priorities.
Who Should Consider a Tesla Battery in 2025?
The Tesla Powerwall 3 is best suited to homeowners who want a high-performance, fully integrated solar and battery system especially those building a new system from scratch or replacing outdated solar gear. You should consider the Powerwall 3 if:
You're starting fresh
With a built-in 20 kW solar inverter, Powerwall 3 is ideal if you don’t already have a solar inverter installed. It simplifies installation by combining the inverter and battery into a single unit fewer boxes, cleaner design, and faster commissioning.
You want whole-home backup
With 11.5 kW of continuous AC output and the ability to start heavy loads (up to 185A LRA), it can keep major appliances like air conditioners, pool pumps, and ovens running during outages.
You’re planning to join a VPP
Tesla is one of the most active Virtual Power Plant (VPP) providers in Australia, with programs in SA, VIC, NSW and expanding elsewhere. Powerwall users often benefit from higher feed-in tariffs and participation incentives.
You want a long-term energy investment
Tesla offers smart energy automation through its app, regular software updates, and ongoing integration with EV charging and energy tariffs.
On the other hand, it may not be the best choice if you already have a high-end hybrid inverter installed, or if you’re looking for more modular flexibility (like smaller building blocks). In these cases, options like BYD, Sungrow, or Enphase IQ Batteries may be worth comparing.
About Tesla Energy
While most Australians know Tesla for its electric vehicles, the company has also become a global leader in residential and commercial energy storage. Tesla Energy was formed in 2015 following the launch of the original Powerwall, with the mission of accelerating the world’s transition to sustainable energy.
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Tesla now manufactures its energy products in the United States, including the Powerwall, Powerpack, Megapack, and Solar Roof. All Powerwalls are designed to work seamlessly with the Tesla mobile app, which gives homeowners full control over their energy generation, storage, and usage.
Tesla in Australia
- Thousands of Powerwalls installed nationwide since 2017
- Supported by multiple Virtual Power Plant (VPP) programs (e.g. SA VPP, Tesla Energy Plan)
- Tesla’s Australian presence is growing, but support is still largely centralized via app-based or remote service teams
- Installation and service are handled by certified Tesla installers and solar partners
While Tesla does not have the same local service footprint as some other brands, its global experience, software ecosystem, and VPP focus give it a unique position in the Australian battery market.
Tesla Powerwall Model Range
Tesla’s current residential battery product in Australia is the Powerwall 3, officially launched and approved by the Clean Energy Council in late 2024. While the earlier Powerwall 2 is still technically listed for approval until August 2025, it is being phased out and is no longer the focus of Tesla’s battery offering.
âš¡ Tesla Powerwall 3
- Usable Capacity: 13.5 kWh
- Output Power: 11.5 kW continuous (AC)
- Inverter: Built-in hybrid inverter (supports 20 kW of DC solar)
- Backup: Whole-home backup as standard
- Scalability: Supports up to 4 units
- CEC Approval: Valid until October 2027 (in multiple configurations)
Note: Powerwall 3 is designed as a complete solar and battery system ideal for new installations or full system upgrades. With no need for a separate inverter, it reduces hardware and streamlines backup protection.
Tesla Powerwall 3 Key Specs (Australia)
The Tesla Powerwall 3 combines high storage capacity, powerful output, and integrated solar control in one sleek unit. Below are the key specifications relevant to Australian homeowners, drawn directly from Tesla’s latest datasheet and CEC listing.
Battery & Power
- Usable Capacity: 13.5 kWh
- Battery Type: Lithium-ion (Tesla’s proprietary tech, LFP confirmed externally)
- Maximum Continuous Output: 11.5 kW (AC)
- Maximum Continuous Charge Power: 5 kW (AC)
- Load Start Capability: 185 A Locked Rotor Amps (LRA)
- Scalability: Supports up to 4 units for larger homes or small businesses
Solar Inverter Integration
- Built-in Hybrid Inverter: Yes
- Maximum Solar Input: 20 kW DC (Standard Test Conditions)
- MPPTs: 6 Maximum Power Point Trackers
- MPPT Voltage Range: 150 – 480 V DC
- Maximum DC Voltage: 600 V
With its built-in 20 kW solar inverter and 6 MPPTs, Powerwall 3 can eliminate the need for a separate hybrid or string inverter. Ideal for homes with larger solar arrays.
Backup & Energy Management
- Backup Capability: Whole-home backup by default
- Supported Backup Devices: Tesla Backup Switch or Backup Gateway 2
- Smart Energy Management: Customizable via Tesla App
- Operating Modes: Self-consumption, time-of-use optimization, backup mode
- Communication: Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and 4G/LTE (connectivity dependent)
Dimensions & Mounting
- Size: 1099 x 609 x 193 mm
- Weight: 130 kg
- Mounting Options: Floor or wall mount
- Ingress Rating: IPX7 (battery), IPX5 (wiring compartment)
- Noise: <50 dB typical
Environmental Ratings
- Operating Temp Range: –20°C to 50°C
- Outdoor Rated: Yes (NEMA 3R)
- Humidity Tolerance: Up to 100%, condensing
- Altitude Limit: 3000 m
Compliance & Certification
- CEC Approved Model Codes: 1707000-xx-y (in 5, 10, 11.04 kVA variants)
- Grid Compliance: AS4777.2:2020, UL 9540, IEEE 1547
- Warranty: 10 years (see section below for full details)
Expanded Pros & Cons
of the Tesla Powerwall 3
Pros
- Fully integrated design
Powerwall 3 combines a high-capacity battery, solar inverter, and energy management system in a single unit. This reduces installation complexity and removes the need for a separate hybrid inverter.
- High power output for whole-home use
With 11.5 kW of continuous output and support for starting heavy loads (up to 185 A LRA), Powerwall 3 can comfortably run large appliances and support full-house backup during outages.
- DC solar input up to 20 kW
Unlike Powerwall 2, the new model accepts direct DC solar through 6 MPPTs. A major advantage for new systems or homes with larger rooftop arrays.
- Advanced software and app integration
The Tesla App offers real-time monitoring, flexible energy modes (backup, time-of-use, self-consumption), and remote control with regular updates and automations over time.
- Seamless backup performance
When paired with a Tesla Backup Switch or Gateway 2, the system provides automatic, near-instant backup without manual switchover or external devices.
- VPP-ready and widely supported
Tesla is an active Virtual Power Plant (VPP) participant in Australia. Homeowners with a Powerwall 3 may be eligible for VPP incentives depending on their state and provider.
Cons
- Not modular below 13.5 kWh
Each unit is a fixed 13.5 kWh. There’s no flexibility to scale in smaller increments. Some brands like BYD or Sungrow offer modular 5 kWh blocks for more granular sizing.
- Higher upfront cost
Compared to hybrid systems that reuse your existing inverter, Powerwall 3’s integrated design may carry a higher installation cost especially if retrofitting to an existing solar setup.
- AC-only output
Although solar is connected via DC, the battery only outputs AC. There’s no native DC output for specialised off-grid or low-voltage systems.
- Supply limitations and installer access
Tesla’s installer network is limited in some areas, and supply availability can vary depending on region and demand.
- Centralized support model
Tesla’s support in Australia is largely app-based or handled remotely. While many users report positive experiences, some have noted delays in service or responsiveness.
Support, Warranty & Local Presence
Warranty Coverage
Tesla Powerwall 3 comes with a 10-year product warranty, which guarantees that the battery will retain at least 70% of its original capacity after 10 years of use. This aligns with most premium batteries in Australia and reflects Tesla’s confidence in long-term performance.
- Warranty term: 10 years
- Minimum capacity retention: 70%
- Conditions: Must be installed by a certified Tesla installer and used within defined operating parameters
Tesla does not currently offer an extended warranty option for Powerwall 3.
Local Installer Network
Tesla works with a network of certified Powerwall installers across Australia. However, availability can vary by state and region.
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If you’re interested in joining a Virtual Power Plant (VPP), many of Tesla’s approved VPP partners will manage both installation and participation.
Service & Support
- Monitoring and control is fully app-based via the Tesla mobile app
- System updates are delivered over-the-air automatically
- Customer support is handled through the app or online portals there are no local service centres for direct walk-in support
- Troubleshooting is typically done remotely unless hardware replacement is required
We Have Great Answers
Ask Us Anything
The typical installed price of a Tesla Powerwall 3 in Australia ranges from $15,000 to $18,000, depending on installer margins, switchboard upgrades, and site complexity.
This includes the battery, integrated solar inverter, installation, and backup gateway or switch.
Yes. Powerwall 3 is eligible for the Federal Rebate under the Small Scale Renewable Energy Scheme (STCs). The value depends on your location and battery size, but for a 13.5 kWh system, the rebate typically reduces the price by around $3,500 to $5,000.
Rebate values can vary slightly due to admin fees and market pricing of STCs.
Yes, Tesla Powerwall 3 is now officially approved by the Clean Energy Council and being rolled out through Tesla-certified installers nationwide. Availability may still be limited in some areas due to high demand.
- Usable capacity: 13.5 kWh
- Physical size: 1099 x 609 x 193 mm
- Weight: 130 kg
- The battery is a single fixed-size unit and is not modular below 13.5 kWh.
Tesla offers a 10-year warranty with 70% minimum capacity retention. Based on lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry and typical daily cycling, lifespan can exceed 6,000 cycles, equating to 15+ years of usable life in many homes.
Yes. You can install up to four Powerwall 3 units together for larger energy storage needs. However, you cannot add smaller battery modules each unit is fixed at 13.5 kWh.
Tesla Powerwall 3 uses Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) chemistry, which offers superior thermal stability, longer cycle life, and greater safety compared to older NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) chemistries.
Yes. Powerwall 3 offers automatic whole-home backup when paired with a Tesla Backup Switch or Backup Gateway 2. It can keep critical and heavy loads running, including air conditioning, pool pumps, and kitchen appliances.
Powerwall 3 is currently single-phase only, but you can install one unit per phase in a three-phase home for distributed storage and backup. Consult your installer for design advice.
Yes. Powerwall 3 includes a built-in hybrid inverter that accepts up to 20 kW of DC solar. This makes it a strong choice for new installations or full solar + battery upgrades.
- 10-year product warranty
- 70% minimum capacity retention
- Warranty is valid when installed by a Tesla-certified installer and used within system guidelines
Powerwall 3 is a premium system with high output, full solar integration, and whole-home backup making it a strong value for homeowners looking for performance, simplicity, and long-term flexibility. It may not be the cheapest option, but it’s one of the most capable.
Downloadable Documents
Here are the key documents and certifications for the Tesla Powerwall 3 battery system, helpful for homeowners, installers, and rebate applications:
Tesla Powerwall 3 Datasheet (2024)
Includes full technical specifications, inverter ratings, battery capacity, backup details, and environmental ratings.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy a Tesla Powerwall 3 in 2025?
The Tesla Powerwall 3 represents a major leap forward from its predecessor. With high output power, built-in solar inverter functionality, and whole-home backup as standard, it’s one of the most advanced and streamlined battery systems currently available in Australia.
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For new solar installations or full system upgrades, Powerwall 3 offers a smart, space-efficient solution with minimal hardware and maximum control. Tesla’s app-based automation, seamless backup, and growing Virtual Power Plant ecosystem make it a strong choice for tech-forward households.
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That said, it won’t suit every situation. The fixed size and higher upfront cost may not be ideal for smaller energy users or homeowners looking to retrofit a modular battery alongside an existing inverter. Installation availability also varies depending on location.
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Still, for homeowners seeking long-term energy independence with cutting-edge functionality, Powerwall 3 is one of the strongest all-in-one systems on the market.
Overall Score: 88%
Ideal for homeowners building a new solar system or replacing an old one especially those who value powerful backup, intelligent control, and a clean, all-in-one design.
