Known for its pioneering role in solar microinverters, Enphase Energy has significantly broadened its product line. The introduction of the Enphase IQ battery series in North America in 2020 marked the company’s foray into the energy storage sector. The series includes the IQ 3, IQ 10, and the recently launched IQ 5P.
An Enphase IQ battery purchase involves more than just a battery; it’s a holistic energy storage solution. The setup includes:
This end-to-end solution allows convenient storage and utilization of excess solar energy.
Additional expenses may include a backup loads sub-panel, costing around $1,000 to $2,000, to power essential appliances during a power outage.
| Model | IQ 3T | IQ 10T | IQ 5P |
| Capacity | 3.36 kWh | 10.28 kWh | 5 kWh |
| Continuous power output | 1.28 kW | 3.84 kW | 3.84 kW |
| Round-trip AC efficiency | 89% | 89% | 90% |
| Dimensions | 16.9 in x 30.5 in x 7.4 in | 50.5 in x 30.5 in x 7.4 in | 38.6 in x 21.7 in x 7.4 in |
| Weight | 107.6 lbs | 316.5 lbs | 174 lbs |
| Warranty3.36 kWh | 70% capacity @ 10 years or 4,000 cycles* | 70% capacity @ 10 years or 4,000 cycles* | 60% capacity @ 15 years or 6,000 cycles |
The total installation cost for a single IQ 10 battery is expected to be between $13,000 and $15,000. While costs can vary, this is generally in line with industry standards.
Federal clean energy tax credits can offset 30% of the installation costs, and various local incentives may also apply.
A single Tesla Powerwall outperforms any individual Enphase IQ model in storage capacity and continuous power output. However, Enphase offers more customization options for scaling your system. Read our Tesla Powerwall review for more information.
The Tesla Powerwall has a price tag of $8,700 before setup through Powerwall Direct, Tesla’s dedicated battery purchase system. Once set up, the Powerwall’s price may hover around $13,000 to $14,000, varying with the installation service. This is roughly comparable to the Enphase IQ 10 kWh battery’s cost, but the Powerwall boasts greater energy storage and power output capabilities.
Per kWh, the Powerwall offers slightly better value than the Enphase IQ. If you’re in the market for a single battery, the Powerwall gives impressive value for money. However, for those seeking a tailored system with multiple batteries, Enphase might be a more fitting choice.
We always recommend collecting various battery setup quotes. Consider obtaining estimates from both Tesla and Enphase providers and contrast them based on your unique requirements.
Most contemporary batteries come with a warranty ensuring 70% capacity following a decade of usage, or a set amount of cycles, depending on which condition is met first. This applies to the Powerwall as well as the Enphase IQ 10 and IQ 3. Yet, the Powerwall holds a minor advantage; Tesla provides an infinite cycle warranty, given certain battery usage modes are maintained.
On the other hand, the Enphase IQ 5P boasts one of the most extended warranties, assuring 60% capacity after 15 years or 6,000 cycles. Essentially, an IQ 5P battery has coverage that outlasts most competitors.
Regardless of choosing the Powerwall or an Enphase IQ variant, you’re assured a robust warranty.
Choosing the right battery goes beyond just performance indicators. There are additional factors to consider when weighing the Powerwall against the Enphase IQ.
Consider the aesthetic appeal of the battery. If it’s positioned in a conspicuous location, you’d prefer it to be visually appealing. The Powerwall boasts a superior design for household batteries – it’s streamlined and compact, ensuring it doesn’t intrude if placed in your garage or along your house’s exterior. While the second-generation Enphase IQ models received a design boost, they don’t quite match the polished appearance of the Powerwall.
However, in various other aspects, the Enphase IQ outshines the Powerwall. A crucial one is customer support. Enphase is renowned for its excellent customer service, a reputation not shared by Tesla. Considering batteries last over a decade, reliable post-purchase service is essential, and Tesla’s history in this area is somewhat patchy.
Moreover, obtaining a Powerwall can be challenging. In some regions, prospective buyers have waited over a year. Contrastingly, the Enphase IQ was the preferred battery for solar installers as per our Solar Industry Survey. 58% of these installers offered the Enphase IQ, whereas a mere 27% provided the Tesla Powerwall. But with Tesla’s introduction of the Powerwall Direct initiative, their battery availability might see improvement.
Another noteworthy point is Enphase’s incorporation of microinverter technology in their IQ batteries. Unlike traditional battery systems, which depend on a single inverter to process energy storage and release (rendering the battery non-functional if this inverter fails), Enphase IQ batteries incorporate multiple microinverters. This means that if one fails, others continue functioning, ensuring your entire storage system remains operational. While the likelihood of such a failure is minimal, it’s an aspect worth noting.
If you still can’t decide if Enphase makes the most sense for your home, contact our team of experts at 8MSolar.
This content was originally published here.
