As power outages become more frequent, and homeowners realize that their panel-only setups are greatly limited, a growing number of residents will require a solar backup option to keep the lights on. Thanks to its early adoption and brand recognition, Tesla has drawn the attention of homeowners with its Powerwall solar battery – but it does have flaws.
Along with its unsafe lithium-ion battery chemistry, which could pose risk for thermal runaway or fire, the Powerwall is constantly backordered. As a result, many solar dealers are turning to a Powerwall alternative such as NeoVolta’s NV14 to prevent long wait times for their homeowner clients.
Tesla Powerwall Alternatives
Tesla’s Powerwall may be the most recognizable name in the industry, but its lithium-ion chemistry is becoming antiquated with newer alternatives from SunPower, Enphase, and the team at NeoVolta. Lithium-iron phosphate batteries pose no thermal runaway, meaning they won’t combust similarly to some electric vehicles in the past. And when it comes to the home, no risk should be taken.
NeoVolta NV14
Thanks to its safe and long-lasting lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry, NeoVolta’s NV14 solar battery has emerged as a premier Powerwall alternative in recent years. LFP batteries eliminate the fire risk of traditional lithium-ion batteries, and typically last up to 50% longer to boot.
With a storage capacity of 14.4 kWh, the NV14 provides substantial backup power for select rooms, devices, and appliances in the event of an outage. It’s also capable of coupling with both AC and DC power sources, meaning that NeoVolta accepts both AC solar and DC solar directly.
Priced around $17,000 before incentives, the NV14’s value is shown in its durability. It can last up to 6,000 cycles, or about 16 years, versus the 10.95 year life cycle of most lithium-ion competitors. And if your customers need more power, NeoVolta’s NV24 add-on can expand their capacity up to 24 kWh.
The NV14 can also pair with any solar panel system, while other competitors may require you to use their equipment for the entire setup.
SunPower SunVault
As an installer whose homeowners have SunPower solar panels, the SunVault is a great Powerwall alternative with seamless integration. At 13 kWh storage capacity, you’ll offer ample backup power from a trusted brand, albeit not as powerful as the NV14.
The SunVault also uses safer LFP chemistry, similar to NeoVolta’s NV14. One downside is that capacity upgrades require adding a whole new battery, and not just an add-on module. Their premium price of $16,000 – $20,000 may also give your homeowner clients pause. Despite the cost, SunPower’s long-held solar expertise is one that can be trusted, making the SunVault a strong contender.
Enphase Encharge
The Enphase Encharge is likely the most unique out of these options, since they offer both a modular 3.36 kWh solar battery as well as a larger 10.5 kWh option. This modular approach allows homeowners to scale up their solar storage as needed. The Encharge also uses a LFP battery chemistry and comes from one of the top names in solar – making it a popular choice among solar homeowners who aren’t completely sure about their daily storage needs.
Unlike the NeoVolta NV14, however, the Encharge only works with Enphase inverters and offers far less storage capacity. At $10,000 for 10.5 kWh, it offers a good value, but lower capacity and panel compatibility when compared to other competitors on the list.
Home Battery Backup Supply Training & Certification with NeoVolta
When comparing top solar batteries for their safety, performance, and overall value, NeoVolta’s NV14 rises to the top. From its fire-safe lithium-iron phosphate battery chemistry to its long-lasting design and universal panel compatibility, your homeowner clients will make the most of the solar energy they harness. It also takes under a day to install with minimal maintenance – making it a win-win option for both installers such as yourself and your homeowner clients.
If you’re a solar dealer, visit our solar dealer website for more details and specifications on our NV14 battery.
