Tesla Energy Plan Review
The Tesla Energy Plan is a retail electricity plan operated by Energy Locals exclusively for Powerwall owners. It bundles competitive electricity rates with VPP participation, where your Powerwall automatically exports stored energy during peak grid demand periods. Tesla's software handles all the optimisation, so there's nothing for you to manage.
How Tesla Energy Plan works
Your Powerwall charges from solar during the day as normal. When the grid needs extra power (typically late afternoon to evening), Tesla's software triggers a discharge event. Your battery exports stored energy to the grid, and you receive above-market export credits on your electricity bill. The Tesla app shows you exactly when events happen and how much you earned. Storm Watch mode ensures your battery stays charged when severe weather is forecast, so backup power always comes first.
Payment structure
Export credits appear on your quarterly electricity bill via Energy Locals. Rates range from 12c to 22c/kWh depending on the time of export, with peak evening exports earning the highest rates. This is typically 2x to 4x higher than standard feed-in tariffs. You also get competitive import rates, making the overall plan attractive even without heavy VPP participation.
Realistic earnings
A typical household with a Powerwall 2 (13.5kWh) earns $200–$500 per year from VPP exports alone. Earnings are highest in summer when solar production exceeds household demand, and during extreme heat events when grid prices spike. Homes in SA tend to earn more due to higher grid volatility.
Pros and cons
thumb_upPros
- checkHigher export rates than standard FiTs
- checkSeamless Powerwall integration
- checkStorm Watch backup feature
- checkNo lock-in contract
thumb_downCons
- removeTesla Powerwall batteries only
- removeLimited to four states
- removeEarnings vary by season and grid demand
Compatible batteries
The following batteries are confirmed compatible with Tesla Energy Plan. Contact Tesla / Energy Locals for the latest list.
State availability
Tesla Energy Plan is available in the following states:
How to sign up
You need a Tesla Powerwall (either Powerwall 2 or 3) already installed. Sign up through the Tesla app by selecting the Energy Plan option. Tesla will switch your electricity retailer to Energy Locals. The process takes 2–4 weeks including the standard retailer transfer period. No additional hardware is required.
Requirements: Tesla Powerwall only · Tesla app required · NSW, VIC, SA, QLD
Who is Tesla Energy Plan best for?
Tesla Powerwall owners who want a set-and-forget VPP experience with no lock-in contract. The integrated electricity plan means you don't need to coordinate between a retailer and a separate VPP program.
Tesla Energy Plan FAQs
How much can I earn with Tesla Energy Plan?
Tesla Energy Plan participants typically earn $200 – $500 per year with a 10kWh battery. Earnings depend on your state, battery size, and the number of grid events during the year. South Australian households tend to earn the most due to frequent price spikes.
What batteries work with Tesla Energy Plan?
Tesla Energy Plan is compatible with: Tesla Powerwall. Check with Tesla / Energy Locals for the latest compatibility list as new battery models are added regularly.
Is there a lock-in contract with Tesla Energy Plan?
No, Tesla Energy Plan has no lock-in contract. You can leave at any time.
Which states is Tesla Energy Plan available in?
Tesla Energy Plan is currently available in NSW, VIC, SA, QLD. Coverage may expand in the future, check with Tesla / Energy Locals for the latest availability.
How does Tesla Energy Plan compare to other VPPs?
Tesla Energy Plan offers export rates of 12–22c/kWh and estimated annual earnings of $200 – $500. It's one of the highest-rated programs in Australia. Visit our VPP comparison hub for a side-by-side breakdown.
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Compare alternatives
| Program | Export Rate | Est. Annual | Lock-in |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tesla Energy Plan (this review) | 12–22c/kWh | $200 – $500 | No lock-in |
| Origin Loop VPP | Up to 20c/kWh | $300 – $600 | 12 months |
| AGL Virtual Power Plant | 15–18c/kWh | $250 – $500 | 24 months |
| Simply Energy VPP | 18–25c/kWh | $300 – $700 | No lock-in |
| Reposit Power | Variable (up to $1/kWh) | $400 – $1,000+ | No lock-in |
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