Franklin battery vs Tesla Powerwall

An Energy Storage Comparison

A Comparison of the Franklin battery vs Tesla Powerwall

Solar panels are an excellent way of using the sun’s rays to produce usable electricity, making for a more effective, sustainable, and cost-efficient home. While the sun has the ability to produce a lot of energy, most homes do not use enough electrical power to result in a net zero amount. This is where batteries come into play. By using batteries as energy storage, your home’s solar panels can produce at their peak performance without letting the resulting product go to waste. There are a variety of different battery times, each with different features. Finding the battery that works best for your home and energy needs is key to making your solar panel system as efficient as it can be.

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An Overview of the Tesla Powerwall

The Tesla Powerwall is one of the most popular batteries on the market, made by tech powerhouse Tesla. There are two batteries from Tesla on the market, the original Tesla Powerwall and the newer Tesla Powerwall+. The Tesla Powerwall+ has a variety of competitive specs. It is a Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) battery. It has an alternating current (AC) connection and is able to store about 13/5kWh of energy. When it comes to power outputs, the TeslaPowerwall+ has 7kWh of continuous power output and at its most powerful, 10kWh. High power outputs are important for running an effective household. The higher the power output, the more things in your home you can run at the same time. When it comes to warranties, the Tesla Powerwall+ has a 10 year/70% retention warranty. Retention warranties do not generally outline the maximum life expectancy. Most batteries are able to run far past their warranty time.

An Overview of the Franklin Battery

The Franklin Battery is another popular option on the market. It is a bit newer than its Tesla competitor and offers many of the same features. The biggest difference between the two batteries is what they are composed of. While the Tesla Powerwall+ is an NMC battery, the Franklin battery is composed of lithium iron phosphate (LFP). The advantages of LFP batteries versus NMC batteries include better lifespan, safety, and tolerance for extremes, generally referring to temperatures. LFP batteries generally are able to give 20 good years of life. For those who live in climates with more stark temperatures and seasonal changes, the tolerance to extremes of the LFP batteries make them a better option. The Franklin battery does fall short when it comes to energy density. The Tesla Powerwall+ offers a higher energy density thus more often used for charging high-powered electronics, like a car. The Franklin battery generally comes with a 12-year, 70% capacity with a throughput of about 43 MWh.

Tesla Powerwall+ and Franklin Battery Price Face Off

The Tesla Powerwall+ runs about $12,850 before the cost of installation. The cost with installation ends up costing around $16,850. The more batteries you add, the cheaper the cost becomes. Per kWh, the Tesla Powerwall+ comes to $1,248. The Franklin battery on the other hand, will cost approximately $17,500 with installation. For the first battery, that comes to around $1,287 per kWh. When looking at these two prices, the Franklin battery is the more expensive option. But, as mentioned previously, the LFP battery comes with a lengthier lifespan and a heartier shield to weather differences.

Considerations when looking at the Tesla Powerall

Tesla Works Best With Tesla

The Tesla Powerwall comes with a variety of features tied to other specific Tesla products. While Tesla Powerwalls can work with most other home appliances, the best way to get your full money’s worth is through having other Tesla products in your arsenal.

Limited Size

Newer batteries on the market have modular features. This means that you can buy other power cells down the line to expand your battery size. This Tesla battery does not have this feature. Additionally, other competitors on the market have larger batteries that can outshine and outpower the Tesla Powerwall.

Considerations when looking at Franklin Battery Systems

New on the Block

he scene has its cons. Because the Franklin battery is newer to the market, it does not have the advantage of being the tried and true option. When you’re new, you need time to prove yourself against competitors that have been running the show for quite some time.

Not Widely Used

Due to being new, the Franklin battery may also not be widely used by a variety of solar companies. Depending on who you choose as your solar panel system partner, using the Franklin battery may not even be offered. Purchasing the battery and finding another company to install it can easily drive the overall cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I install a solar battery?

When it comes to solar battery installation, do not try to install it yourself. Battery installations can be dangerous and very costly if done incorrectly. Contact a trusted solar installer to set up any and all your battery needs.

Are either of these batteries eligible for the solar tax credit?

Yes, both of these batteries are eligible for the solar tax credit. In fact, any battery installed in 2023 or later that can hold at least 3kWh of energy is eligible for the solar tax credit.

Tips For Choosing the Right Battery

Solar panel batteries are not one-size-fits-all. What your neighbor, friend, or family member uses may not necessarily be what works best for you. Ultimately, choosing the right solar battery depends heavily on your home’s energy needs, the size of your solar panel system, and where your home is located.

Electrical Usage

Before choosing a battery, take an inventory of your electrical appliances. Do you own an electric car? Do you have a variety of high wattage appliances? Depending on your answers, you may need a battery with a much higher energy density than you had previously thought.

Solar Panel System and Home Size

If your solar panel system is sizable, you may want to consider a larger battery size, or several large batteries. Understanding how much power your solar panel system will generate compared to how much energy your home uses, can give you a good idea of the resulting storage needs.

Solar Panel System and Home Location

The climate that surrounds your home and solar panel system is an important factor to consider. Some batteries are better suited for more extreme temperature changes, while others are too sensitive for very hot and very cold days. If you live in a more temperate region, you may not even need to worry about how much heat or cold your battery can withstand.

Making an Informed Decision

You know your life best. Using what you know about your home and energy usage, you can make the most informed decision. And, Citadel Roofing and Solar is here to help. Our team of industry leading experts can help guide you on your solar journey. We are happy to work with you to find the perfect solar solution for your household. To take your first steps into solar, call us today.