Yes. You can install a home battery backup system without solar panels. The battery can charge from the electrical grid and provide backup power during an outage. Depending on your utility rates and system configuration, it may also help you manage electricity costs. AWS Solar can evaluate your home’s energy needs and help you determine whether a battery-only system or a solar-plus-battery installation is the right solution.

For most homes, a single Tesla Powerwall 3 can comfortably back up your critical loads (lights, refrigerator, Wi-Fi, and outlets) for 24 to 48 hours. If paired with a solar panel array, your runtime becomes virtually indefinite because the panels will recharge the battery every day when the sun comes up. During your initial engineering consultation, AWS Solar will audit your electrical panel to group your essential circuits so your battery power lasts as long as possible during extended Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS).

Yes, but it requires proper sizing. Central AC units draw a massive amount of power to start up. The Tesla Powerwall 3 features a high power output that can handle these heavy loads, but running a large AC continuously will drain a single battery quickly. If keeping your air conditioning running during summer grid strains is a priority, our team will design a multi-battery system (stacking 2 or more Powerwalls) or install a soft-start device to protect your backup supply.

•  For SCE customers, we program your battery for “Time-Of-Use (TOU) Optimization” so your home automatically switches to battery power during expensive peak hours (typically 4 PM to 9 PM), saving you money daily.

• For LADWP customers or those in high-risk fire zones like the Ventura County hills, we can prioritize “Backup Reserve” modes to keep your storage at 100% capacity in case of high-wind power shutoffs.