Tesla Powerwall 2 vs BYD Solar Batteries

Summary

In this video, Mark from MC Electrical compares two top solar batteries: the Tesla Powerwall and the BYD solar battery. He highlights seven key differences, such as AC vs. DC coupling, blackout changeover times, backup capabilities, user interfaces, flexibility, battery chemistry, and warranty. Tesla's Powerwall offers seamless backup, a great app, and reliability, while BYD stands out for its modular options, better efficiency in certain scenarios, and LFP battery chemistry. Mark dives deep into the pros and cons of each, helping viewers choose the best option for their home.

Takeaways

• 😀 Tesla Powerwall is AC-coupled, making it compatible with any solar inverter, while BYD is DC-coupled and requires a hybrid inverter.
• 😀 The Tesla Powerwall switches to backup mode almost instantaneously during a blackout, while the BYD takes about 60 seconds to changeover.
• 😀 Tesla Powerwall does not continue charging from solar panels during a blackout if connected to a three-phase inverter, but BYD does.
• 😀 With a BYD battery and the right setup, you can store up to 57.9 kWh, keeping your home powered for an extended blackout period.
• 😀 The Tesla app provides great flexibility for users, allowing for adjustments like charging schedules, while BYD's interface needs improvement.
• 😀 BYD offers more modular options for battery sizes, ranging from 5.1 kWh to 57.9 kWh, whereas the Tesla Powerwall is limited to 13.5 kWh.
• 😀 Tesla uses NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) battery chemistry, which is more compact and lightweight, while BYD uses LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate), which is cheaper and theoretically safer.
• 😀 The Tesla Powerwall is manufactured in the USA, while BYD's battery is produced in China, raising potential ethical concerns for some buyers.
• 😀 Tesla offers a strong warranty presence in Australia, ensuring long-term support, while BYD's warranty may be complicated by potential disputes between the manufacturer and inverter suppliers.
• 😀 The BYD system offers more flexibility and options for larger setups, making it ideal for homeowners looking for long-term energy storage solutions, while the Tesla Powerwall is simpler but still efficient for most households.

Q & A

What is the main difference between Tesla Powerwall and BYD solar battery in terms of coupling?

The Tesla Powerwall uses AC coupling, meaning it integrates easily with any existing solar inverter and includes a built-in battery charger. In contrast, the BYD battery uses DC coupling, requiring a hybrid inverter with a built-in charger for connection.

How does the changeover time during a blackout differ between Tesla Powerwall and BYD?

The Tesla Powerwall transitions into backup mode instantly with no noticeable disruption, while the BYD battery takes around 60 seconds. However, this time will be reduced to about 15 seconds with a future firmware update for the Fronius inverter used with BYD.

Can the Tesla Powerwall recharge during a blackout?

No, the Tesla Powerwall cannot recharge during a blackout when connected to a three-phase inverter. It will only use the remaining battery capacity until the grid power is restored.

How does BYD perform in extended blackouts compared to Tesla Powerwall?

BYD can continue charging from solar panels during a blackout and, with enough battery capacity (up to 57.9 kWh), can provide power for appliances like air conditioners for extended periods. Tesla Powerwall does not have this capability during blackouts when connected to a three-phase inverter.

What is the user interface experience like for Tesla Powerwall compared to BYD?

Tesla Powerwall offers a user-friendly app with advanced features like storm mode, allowing easy control and monitoring of the system. The BYD interface, on the other hand, is managed through the Fronius system and is considered less intuitive, though improvements are in progress.

Which system is more flexible in terms of battery size options, Tesla Powerwall or BYD?

BYD offers much more flexibility, with battery sizes ranging from 5.1 kWh to 57.9 kWh. Tesla Powerwall has a fixed capacity of 13.5 kWh but can be expanded by adding additional units, though it is limited by grid regulations in some areas.

What is the main difference in battery chemistry between Tesla Powerwall and BYD?

Tesla Powerwall uses NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) batteries, which are lighter, more compact, and efficient. BYD uses LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries, which are safer, more affordable, and do not use cobalt, making them more ethically appealing but less compact.

How does the manufacturing origin of the batteries impact their perception?

Tesla Powerwall is manufactured in the USA, which may appeal to those preferring American-made products. BYD's batteries are made in China, which may raise ethical concerns for some consumers, especially regarding the origins of materials like cobalt.

What warranty options are available for Tesla Powerwall and BYD batteries in Australia?

Tesla Powerwall offers a strong warranty backed by a strong presence in Australia, ensuring long-term support. BYD’s warranty is also available, but there may be concerns about potential disputes between the manufacturer and the inverter provider (Fronius). Working with reputable installers, like MC Electrical, ensures reliable warranty support under Australian Consumer Law.

How does the modularity of BYD compare to Tesla Powerwall for homeowners?

BYD’s modularity offers a significant advantage, allowing homeowners to choose from a wide range of battery capacities from 5.1 kWh to 57.9 kWh, catering to specific energy needs. Tesla Powerwall, while offering flexibility with multiple units, is less modular due to its fixed 13.5 kWh capacity and grid regulation limitations.