Tesla Powering Texas Grid with Home Energy-Storage Systems
Tesla customers in Texas will soon be able to assist the state’s power grid with the use of home energy-storage systems.
A recent partnership between Tesla Electric, a retail electricity provider under Tesla Energy, and solar company SunRun has been announced. This collaboration will enroll customers in a program that utilizes Tesla Powerwall battery packs to supplement the grid during peak demand periods.
SunRun has already enrolled 150 customers and plans to increase enrollments moving forward. Eligibility for enrollment is open to SunRun customers with solar panels connected to Tesla Powerwall batteries, who have selected Tesla Electric as their electricity provider.
Participating customers will be involved in a pilot program overseen by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), the state’s electricity grid operator. In return for their participation throughout the 2024 calendar year, customers will receive $400 per Powerwall. SunRun will also generate additional revenue through the program.
According to SunRun, battery backups can provide crucial support to the grid during severe weather events. Recent incidents like Hurricane Beryl and the 2021 winter storm that affected the Texas grid highlight the importance of such backup systems.
This initiative marks SunRun’s first pilot program in Texas, showcasing the company’s expertise in home backup batteries. SunRun is also known for being Ford’s preferred installer for backup power systems associated with the F-150 Lightning. Additionally, the company has provided free battery backup systems to low-income households in California through a state-funded program introduced in 2020.