Error parsing XSLT file: \xslt\FacebookOpenGraph.xslt Tesla launches energy storage system for businesses and homes
Cookies on Businesscar

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue without changing your settings, we will assume that you are happy to receive all cookies on the Business Car website. However, if you would like to, you can change your cookies at any time

BusinessCar magazine website email Awards mobile

The start point for the best source of fleet information

Tesla launches energy storage system for businesses and homes

Date: 06 May 2015   |   Author: Daniel Puddicombe

Tesla will introduce a new solar energy storage battery in the UK, which will let businesses charge their electric vehicle.

The system will also be able to power businesses and store power reserves, reducing dependence on the national grid.

Tesla said it is trying to "accelerate the move away from fossil fuels."

The battery - dubbed Powerwall - is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery (the same type of battery that powers the majority of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles), which has been designed to store and back-up energy, while using power generated by solar panels.

The unit is able to mount on a wall and is integrated into the local grid, so users can harness excess power and draw energy from their own reserves.

It is available in two power outputs - 10kWh and 6kWh. The former is optimised for power back-ups, while the latter is designed for daily use. Both can be used to charge electric vehicles. A Tesla spokeswoman told BusinessCar that the 7kWh option would be the most popular version in the UK as the country's network is reliable so there is less dependence on back-ups.

The unit can charge the Model S but Tesla said that fleets do not need a Tesla to use the Powerwall, and it is able to charge any electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle. Fleet drivers could also install a Powerwall at home to charge their electric vehicle at home.

UK pricing will be confirmed before the end of the year, but in the US, Tesla is charging $3500 (£2305) for the more powerful version and $3000 (£1976) for the less powerful version. Prices exclude the inverter and installation. Fleets will need to have a solar power system set up for it to work.

In the US, Tesla has a scheme called Tesla Energy for Businesses. The system allows businesses to store excess energy for later use. The system anticipates and discharges stored power during busy periods.

Tesla counts Amazon, Target and EnerNoc as businesses that use the system. The spokeswoman confirmed the scheme would run in the UK.



Share


Subscribe