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Tesla Powerwall 3 Installation Manual
Tesla Powerwall 3 Installation Manual

Tesla Powerwall 3 Installation Manual

With backup gateway 2

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Powerwall 3 Installation Manual
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Summary of Contents for Tesla Powerwall 3

  • Page 1 Powerwall 3 Installation Manual with Backup Gateway 2...
  • Page 2 ©2025 TESLA, INC. All rights reserved. All information in this document is subject to copyright and other intellectual property rights of Tesla, Inc. and its licensors. This material may not be modified, reproduced or copied, in whole or in part, without the prior written permission of Tesla, Inc.
  • Page 3 Electronic Device: Do Not Throw Away Proper disposal of batteries is required. Refer to local codes for disposal requirements. For Private Households: Information on Disposal for Users of WEEE This symbol on the product(s) and / or accompanying documents means that Waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) should not be mixed with general household waste.
  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Technical Support............96 Required Supplies............34 Maintenance............... 96 STEP 1: Plan the Installation Site....35 Appendix A: Powerwall 3 Anchoring Details..Choose a Location that Meets Powerwall 3 Clearance ..............97 Requirements..............35 General Anchoring Notes..........97 Plan Powerwall 3 Mounting Configuration....37 Anchoring Details for Ground- or Wall-mounting Plan Cable Length Between Components....
  • Page 5 System LED Behavior..........114 Powerwall 3 LED Behavior......... 114 Appendix E: Installations with Multiple Powerwall 3 Units......... 116 Appendix F: Shutting Down Powerwall 3..120 Appendix G: Troubleshooting....... 121 Situations in Which Powerwall 3 Stops Grid Forming..121 Appendix H: Revision History....... 122...
  • Page 6: General Warnings And Information

    Powerwall, potentially rendering it inoperable. IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS This manual contains important instructions for Powerwall 3 and Backup Gateway 2 that must be followed during installation and maintenance of the system. NOTE: On detection of abnormal condition for voltage or frequency conditions or in response to a detected unintentional island, the Tesla Powerwall system disconnects from the grid to prevent backfeed.
  • Page 7 CAUTION: Do not use fluids, parts, or accessories other than those specified in this manual, including use of non-genuine Tesla parts or accessories, or parts or accessories not purchased directly from Tesla or a Tesla- certified party. CAUTION: Do not place Powerwall in a storage condition for more than one (1) month, or permit the electrical feed on the Powerwall to be severed for more than one (1) month, without placing Powerwall into a storage condition in accordance with Tesla’s storage specifications.
  • Page 8: Supported Configurations

    All Site metering must be performed by Backup Gateway. Powerwall 3 performs its own Solar metering; if the system includes AC-coupled solar, it must be metered by Backup Gateway 2 Meter Y with Tesla CTs. Neurio meters are not supported at the time of publication.
  • Page 9: Specifications

    Maximum AC Current Inrush (0 0 A P-P Load Start Capability (1 s) 185 locked rotor amps (LRA) Power Scalability Up to 4 Powerwall 3 units supported Protection Class Class I Overvoltage Category (AC) Overvoltage Category (PV) PV Inverter Topology...
  • Page 10 Typical solar shifting use case. Cellular connectivity subject to network service coverage and signal strength. NOTE: Powerwall 3 follows the Active islanding methodology by allowing frequency of the Powerwall 3 to be inherently unstable in the absence of a reference frequency (frequency instability).
  • Page 11 Otherwise, Powerwall 3 has an I of 26 A. Mechanical Specifications Dimensions 1105 x 609 x 193 mm Weight 130 kg Mounting Options Floor or wall mount These dimensions include the glass front cover being installed on Powerwall 3. Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 12 Operating Noise @ 1 m < 50 db(A) typical, <62 db(A) maximum Powerwall 3 is designed to operate in all climates and in direct sunlight, from temperatures of -20°C to 50°C. Performance may be de-rated at operating temperatures above 40°C. Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 13 IEC 61000-6-1:2016 - Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) - Part 6-1: Generic standards - Immunity standard for residential, commercial and light-industrial environments EN IEC 61000-6-3: 2020 - Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) - Part 6-3: Generic standards - Emission standard for equipment in residential environments Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 14: Backup Gateway 2 Specifications

    Wet Location Rating Pollution Degree Performance may be de-rated in extreme ambient temperatures Mechanical Specifications Height 584 mm Width 380 mm Depth 127 mm Weight 11.4 kg Tesla 100A CT Specifications Model Number 1467316-00-x Capacity 100 A Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 15 CT Splitting N/A (cannot be split / paralleled) One 100 A CT per terminal Operating Temperature Range -20°C to 50°C (-4°F to 122°F) Max Operating Humidity (with RH 95% condensation) Figure 1. Tesla 100A CT Dimensions Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 16: Registering Powerwall 3

    Tesla. If an internet connection is not established or is interrupted for an extended period, and Tesla is unable to contact the owner, the warranty may be limited to 4 years. To ensure that the owner can receive the full 10-year warranty, be sure to complete the device setup process so that registration information is sent to Tesla.
  • Page 17: Powerwall 3 System Overview

    Powerwall 3 is a fully integrated solar and battery system. The home's PV array is connected directly to Powerwall 3, which converts solar energy and stores it for future use. Powerwall 3 is installed with Backup Gateway 2 to control the system's connection to the grid and monitor home energy consumption.
  • Page 18 POWERWALL 3 SYSTEM OVERVIEW The following table outlines the key Tesla components in a standard Powerwall 3 system. Tesla Components Tesla Part Component Description Numbers 1707000-xx-y Powerwall 3 is an integrated solar and battery system that converts energy from solar panels to be used by the home, and stores excess energy for future use.
  • Page 19: Powerwall 3 Overview

    Expansion port cover Glass front cover Air intake screen Leveling feet Wall mounting bracket NOTE: Do not remove the expansion port covers. These are protective covers and Powerwall 3 will not operate when they are removed. Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 20 POWERWALL 3 SYSTEM OVERVIEW NOTE: The Powerwall 3 part number and serial number can be found on the left side of the unit. Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 21: Powerwall 3 System Design Guidance

    Design Considerations Supported Configurations • Up to (4) Powerwall 3 units with (1) Backup Gateway 2, with or without AC-coupled solar NOTE: Third party MLPE solutions, such as optimizers, are not compatible with Powerwall 3 • Powerwall 3 is not compatible with the following: ◦...
  • Page 22: System Sizing

    System Sizing The following resources explain how to size the Powerwall 3 system to meet customer expectations, as well as how to determine which loads can be included in the backup circuit and what to do with loads that cannot be included.
  • Page 23 *Ensure the configured power output is great enough to support the charger(s) when off-grid; for instance, if Powerwall 3 has a configured power output of 5 kW, (2) Powerwall 3 units would be required to back up a Tesla vehicle charger.
  • Page 24: Powerwall 3 Dc System Sizing

    POWERWALL 3 SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDANCE Powerwall 3 DC System Sizing • Powerwall 3 can be configured as up to a 11.04 kW / 48 A AC rated inverter that can support up to a maximum DC system size of 20 kW.
  • Page 25 POWERWALL 3 SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDANCE • Open Solar • Pylon Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 26: Ac-Coupled Solar System Sizing

    In some scenarios, it is difficult or not feasible to avoid systems with AC-coupled solar. Most commonly, this occurs when Powerwall 3 is installed on a system with existing AC-coupled solar. As shown below, solar can be installed alongside Powerwall 3 solar, or with Powerwall 3 as storage only.
  • Page 27: Undersized Powerwall 3 Systems

    NOTE: The 5 kW PV to Powerwall ratio can be applied to any Powerwall unit in the system, including Powerwall 3. For example, a 5 kW third party solar inverter can be backed up with a single Powerwall 3, as the ratio rule does not apply to the solar inverter portion of the Powerwall 3.
  • Page 28 Backup Gateway 2 Secondary Meter Y Figure 6. Backup Gateway 2 internal meters Meter Compatible CTs Not applicable (Primary Meter X has Up to three Tesla 100A CTs (one per phase). For full three integrated CTs) specifications, see Tesla 100A CT Specifications on page NOTE: One CT is included in the accessory kit;...
  • Page 29 Non-Backup terminals on Backup Gateway 2). • Secondary Meter Y: When there are loads upstream of Backup Gateway 2 or the system includes AC-coupled solar, Tesla 100A CTs can be installed and connected to the Meter Y CT terminals for measuring the site or solar.
  • Page 30 POWERWALL 3 SYSTEM DESIGN GUIDANCE Figure 9. Example Partial Home Backup Metering Diagram: Meter Y Measures Site (Meter X Configured as None). Solar Site CT 100 A Grid Supplier Non-backup Backup Gateway 2 Backup meter distribution board distribution board (Meter X disabled)
  • Page 31 Powerwall 3. NOTE: Powerwall 3 is not compatible with Neurio remote energy meters. NOTE: Powerwall 3 has an internal battery meter which will not be called out in this document, as is not installed or configured by the installer.
  • Page 32: Site Requirements And Pre-Installation Guidance

    Ensure Installation Meets All Local Codes and Requirements Powerwall 3 comes with a Backup Gateway 2 to enable integration with the electrical grid. Powerwall 3 communicates with Backup Gateway 2 by means of a wired connection; wiring and conduit (where required) must be provided by the installer and installed to comply with local codes.
  • Page 33: Preparing For Installation

    Only (6) fasteners are required, with (2) extra fasteners included in the accessory bag. • (7) PV wiring forked terminals • (1) small square clamp-on ferrite core with cable tie for the Tesla Asset Controller (TACO) low voltage harness • (2) medium clamp-on ferrite cores with cable ties for the AC conductors •...
  • Page 34: In The Backup Gateway 2 Box

    • (1) Solar CT (100 A, split-core) • (1) Powerwall 2 Owner's Manual (can be recycled when Backup Gateway 2 is installed with Powerwall 3; the Powerwall 3 owner's manual is available to the customer via their Tesla mobile app)
  • Page 35: Powerwall 3 Service Parts, Orderable Parts, And Accessories

    Interface device for installations requiring DRM0 functionality Controller (GUAC) interface per AS/NZS 4777.2; includes custom wire harness to connect device GUAC interface device to Backup Gateway 2 and Powerwall 3 (see STEP 5: Connect Powerwall 3 to Backup Gateway on page for more information)
  • Page 36: Required Tools

    • Ethernet cable tester Powerwall 3 Installation Tools • Powerwall dolly (preferred, Tesla P/N 1856187-xx-y) OR lift equipment capable of lifting and supporting 287 lb (130 kg) • ¾-inch hex nut or 19 mm drill socket (if using Powerwall dolly) •...
  • Page 37: Required Supplies

    Forked terminals are required for fine stranded wire. The wires must be compliant with local regulations. • Insulated forked terminals for PV wiring; (7) forked terminals are included in the Powerwall 3 accessory bag. If using other forked terminals, Tesla recommends the following or equivalent: ◦...
  • Page 38: Step 1: Plan The Installation Site

    Do not install anything inside the required clearance above Powerwall 3, or anything that might fall and damage the unit. Do not mount Powerwall 3 horizontally or upside down.
  • Page 39 *Tesla recommends a minimum of 150 mm between side-by-side units to allow for adequate space for wiring and On/Off switch access. **This minimum clearance must be maintained at all times, as it ensures adequate airflow for Powerwall 3. Please note that more space may be required depending on local code and/or site conditions.
  • Page 40: Plan Powerwall 3 Mounting Configuration

    STEP 1: PLAN THE INSTALLATION SITE Plan Powerwall 3 Mounting Configuration Choose a Wall Capable of Supporting Powerwall 3 Choose a wall capable of supporting the full weight of Powerwall 3. Walls with the following characteristics are acceptable: • Wood structural members at regular intervals •...
  • Page 41: Plan Cable Length Between Components

    160 m for single strings or 120 m for paralleled strings • Total DC circuit distance refers to the entire round trip wire distance, from Powerwall 3 to the roof, then back to Powerwall 3 •...
  • Page 42 STEP 1: PLAN THE INSTALLATION SITE Figure 14. Powerwall 3 Knockout Locations Table 1. Enclosure Knockout Sizes Knockout Conduit Size Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 43 • Positioning conduit entry holes relative to the Powerwall 3 bracket (the measurements are the same for both knockouts) • Positioning conduit entry holes relative to the floor (if mounting Powerwall 3 with its feet at the lowest height setting and touching the floor)
  • Page 44: Plan Amount And Size Of Conduit Or Raceway

    Calculate the amount and size of conduit or raceway needed for the installation, based on fill limits and local code requirements. An adapter may be required between the entry into the Powerwall wiring compartment and the conduit. Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 45: Step 2: Remove Powerwall 3 From Packaging And Transport Using The Powerwall Dolly

    NOTE: Please return the Powerwall 3 packaging to the warehouse that originally shipped the unit(s). See the for instructions. 2. To lift Powerwall 3 using the Powerwall dolly, loosen the (2X) fasteners holding each lift handle in place, then detach the handles.
  • Page 46 CAUTION: The Powerwall dolly is the recommended tool for transporting Powerwall 3. If using another dolly, ensure Powerwall 3 is facing toward the dolly and the front of the unit is protected by a piece of cardboard (for instance the cardboard box the bracket ships in) or a similar material. Use a strap to secure Powerwall to the dolly.
  • Page 47 Raise the lifting attachment and lower the Powerwall dolly, inserting the lifting plate between the Powerwall 3 feet as it is lowered, and lowering the lifting attachment so that it engages the handles. CAUTION: Confirm the handles are fully engaged with the dolly before proceeding.
  • Page 48 6. Place one foot on the Powerwall packaging as a pivot point, then lift Powerwall and the dolly to a standing position. CAUTION: Powerwall 3 must be in its packaging when lifting it in this manner; the packaging ensures the corners of the enclosure are protected.
  • Page 49 WARNING: Use extreme caution if using the dolly on uneven terrain, such as grass, mud, or loose gravel, or if using on a steep incline. CAUTION: Always lower the lifting plate to its lowest position before moving the dolly with Powerwall 3 attached.
  • Page 50 STEP 2: REMOVE POWERWALL 3 FROM PACKAGING AND TRANSPORT USING THE POWERWALL DOLLY a. Tilt the dolly back 30 degrees to avoid Powerwall tilting forward or catching the wall bracket. b. Place a ¾-inch hex nut or 19 mm drill socket on the dolly lifting screw.
  • Page 51 CAUTION: Be aware of the limiters on the lifting screw, and do not attempt to drive the screw beyond those limiters. CAUTION: Only lift Powerwall 3 using the Powerwall dolly or a platform lifting tool. 10. To disengage the dolly from Powerwall 3: a.
  • Page 52: Step 3: Wall-Mount Powerwall 3 Using Wall Bracket

    STEP 3: WALL-MOUNT POWERWALL 3 USING WALL BRACKET WARNING: Powerwall 3 must be mounted using the wall bracket at all times to secure the unit to the supporting structure. 1. Using a drill and level, mount the Powerwall bracket to a wall capable of supporting the full weight of Powerwall 3.
  • Page 53 (center) segment, as these are not structural mounting holes. Install Fasteners Do Not Install Fasteners Install Fasteners NOTE: The following diagram provides measurements for positioning rear conduit entry holes relative to the Powerwall 3 bracket (the measurements are the same for both knockouts). Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 54 3. Lower Powerwall until both the upper and lower sets of cleats engage the flanges on the bracket. CAUTION: Confirm Powerwall 3 is fully seated on all four cleats before proceeding. 4. If ground-mounting Powerwall, use a 17 mm wrench to adjust the leveling feet until Powerwall is level. The unit should be level within ±...
  • Page 55: Step 4: Install Backup Gateway 2

    Figure 16. Top / Bottom (above) and Back (below) Cable Access Drill Guides Drill Guide Diameters M40, expandable to M50 CAUTION: When Backup Gateway is installed outdoors, top cable entry is prohibited as it may result in water ingress. Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 56 CAUTION: To ensure IP55 ingress rating is maintained, the enclosure must only be mounted at these three points. Figure 17. Backup Gateway Enclosure Mounting Holes CAUTION: The sealing washers must be installed to guarantee IP55 ingress rating. Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 57: Verify Neutral-Earth Bonding Scheme

    Neutral) link is maintained at a single point of connection between neutral and protective earth. With the N-N Jumper Bar installed, neutral will not be broken during off-grid operation. Figure 19. Neutral Conductors are not disconnected in Off-Grid Operation with Factory Installed N-N Jumper Bar Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 58: Make Ac Power Connections To Supply And Load Panels

    Refer to Appendix B: Wiring Reference on page 100 for all wiring requirements and recommendations, including wire colors and gauges. Refer to Appendix C: System Wiring Diagrams on page 108 for example system wiring diagrams. Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 59 STEP 4: INSTALL BACKUP GATEWAY 2 Table 2. Conductor Connections for Single Phase (left) and Three-Phase (right) Single Phase Three-Phase Supply Connections Home Load and Backup Connections Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 60: Install Powerwall And Generation Breakers In The Backup Gateway

    (see figure below). These conductors must be appropriately rated to carry the current of the main supply fuse. 3. Connect Neutral and PE conductors from Powerwall and generation circuits to the Neutral and PE wiring bars, respectively. Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 61: Configuring Powerwall(S) On Three-Phase Installations

    NOTE: A 30 mA Residual Current Device (RCD) or Residual Current Circuit Breaker with Overcurrent Protection (RCBO) is typically not compatible with solar PV inverters (such as Powerwall 3) due to environmental conditions and weather exposure to solar panels. In lieu of an RCD / RCBO, follow local code to install mechanical protection around AC conductors.
  • Page 62: Inverter Configuration

    3-phase PV inverters and 3-phase equipment should always be installed on the Non-Backup side of the Backup Gateway. The only exceptions to this rule are the Tesla Wall Connector or sockets feeding Tesla Mobile Connectors (please see the...
  • Page 63: Step 5: Connect Powerwall 3 To Backup Gateway

    2. At the Backup Gateway, strip the communication wire jacket about 76 mm and strip each conductor 8 mm. 3. Cut back the drain wire from the communication wiring. The drain wire should be terminated at the Powerwall 3 ground terminal only.
  • Page 64 1. At Powerwall 3, strip the communication wire jacket about 76 mm and strip each conductor 8 mm. 2. Insert a cabinet tip or electronics tip slotted screwdriver (up to 3 mm) to open each lever on the 4-pin Backup Gateway 2 Communication connector.
  • Page 65 STEP 5: CONNECT POWERWALL 3 TO BACKUP GATEWAY Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 66 • Tesla Grid Utility Ancillary Controller (GUAC) DRED Interface Device (Tesla P/N 2163703-xx-y): Converts signal from DRM to shut down / reduce PV production to a System Shutdown signal for the Powerwall 3 Tesla Asset Controller (TACO).
  • Page 67 4. Plug the green 4-pin male connector on the GUAC interface device wiring harness into the open Powerwall 3 CAN & 12V socket. Tighten the screws on the connector. 5. Plug the 3-pin connector on the wiring harness into the open Powerwall 3 RSD socket. Tighten the screws on the connector.
  • Page 68 STEP 5: CONNECT POWERWALL 3 TO BACKUP GATEWAY 6. Plug the remaining blue 4-pin connector into the GUAC interface device. 7. Install the utility-side DRED controller in the appropriate location per local requirements. 8. Using the 2-wire communication cable, connect the DRED controller to the 2-pin DRM IN connector on the GUAC interface device, following the manufacturer’s instructions and wiring diagram.
  • Page 69 STEP 5: CONNECT POWERWALL 3 TO BACKUP GATEWAY 9. Arrange the GUAC interface device and all wiring on the left side of the Tesla Asset Controller (TACO), then clip the interface device to the plastic connector on the side of the TACO.
  • Page 70 STEP 5: CONNECT POWERWALL 3 TO BACKUP GATEWAY Figure 21. Completed GUAC Interface Device Installation Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 71: Step 6: Make Powerwall 3 Ac Circuit Connections

    WARNING: Before proceeding, confirm both switches are OFF and there is a lack of voltage at the AC and PV terminals. 2. (Conduit installations only) Run conduit as needed and attach the conduit fitting to the Powerwall 3 AC wiring knockout.
  • Page 72 STEP 6: MAKE POWERWALL 3 AC CIRCUIT CONNECTIONS NOTE: It is best practice to connect the ground circuit before making any AC circuit connections. 6. For each AC conductor: a. Strip the conductor insulation up to 11 mm. Add a wire ferrule if the conductor is finely stranded.
  • Page 73 STEP 6: MAKE POWERWALL 3 AC CIRCUIT CONNECTIONS WARNING: Ensure the conductors are inserted into the round terminals and not the rectangular slots. Inserting the conductors anywhere other than the round terminals will result in poor wire termination. Terminal c. Perform a pull test to ensure the conductor is fully seated in the terminal. Push the conductor back in after the pull test.
  • Page 74 Figure 24. Spring Terminal with Screwdriver and Insert Conductor in Terminal 7. On the Powerwall 3 product label on the left side of the unit, use a paint pen, permanent marker, or similar to mark the configured power / current output.
  • Page 75 STEP 6: MAKE POWERWALL 3 AC CIRCUIT CONNECTIONS 8. On the left side of Powerwall 3, above the product label, install the appropriate model number label depending on the configured power / current output. In the following example, the Powerwall 3 has been configured with a power output of 5 kVA.
  • Page 76: Step 7: Make Solar Pv Connections

    Powerwall 3. 1. Before connecting the PV strings to Powerwall 3, use a PV string tester to test each string, confirming it is performing as expected.
  • Page 77 NOTE: It is best practice to connect the ground circuit before making any PV circuit connections. 6. Starting with MPPT 1: NOTE: If MPPT 1 is not wired first, it will not be possible to access that wiring terminal once conductors are connected to MPPT 2 or MPPT 3. Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 78 CAUTION: Do not attempt to connect multiple wires to a single forked terminal. If the system has more than three PV strings, combine strings upstream of Powerwall 3 and connect no more than three strings to the integrated DC isolator.
  • Page 79 7. Repeat Step 5 for MPPT 2, then MPPT 3. Figure 25. Powerwall 3 PV Wiring Connected to Integrated DC Isolator CAUTION: Before energizing the system, use a multimeter to confirm the polarity of the PV strings is as pictured above (positive strings in bottom row of terminals, negative strings in top row of terminals).
  • Page 80 STEP 7: MAKE SOLAR PV CONNECTIONS CAUTION: Any wire routing must be done through the wire management tabs at the top of the enclosure. Do not route loose wires through the front of the enclosure or over the Tesla Asset Controller.
  • Page 81: Step 8: Install Clamp-On Ferrite Cores

    CAUTION: Ensure all conductors have been stripped properly so that no live conductors come in contact with the ferrite cores. NOTE: All ferrite cores provided with Powerwall 3 are split core; they can be opened to be placed around the conductor(s) rather than threading them over the conductor(s).
  • Page 82 STEP 8: INSTALL CLAMP-ON FERRITE CORES NOTE: Ensure the ferrite cores are installed as described here; for instance, do not clamp a ferrite core around only L1 or N when it is required to be clamped around both L1 and N: Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 83: Step 9: Install Energy Metering

    For Backup Gateway 2 Primary Meter X, there is no additional step required to install the meter or CTs as they are integrated in Backup Gateway 2. For Backup Gateway 2 Secondary Meter Y, Tesla 100A CTs must be installed and...
  • Page 84: Install Tesla 100 A Cts

    Failure to de-energize the system may compromise operator and equipment safety. 1. Plug the Tesla 100 A CT into the terminal in the Backup Gateway. Ensure the connector is fully seated in the terminal.
  • Page 85: Step 10: Complete The Installation

    NOTE: If installing Powerline Ethernet socket adapters, ensure they are installed in the backup circuit. • Connect the Ethernet cable to one of the RJ45 Ethernet terminals in the Powerwall 3. The LED on the Ethernet terminal will illuminate green to indicate Ethernet is connected.
  • Page 86: Close Backup Gateway 2 Wiring Compartment

    STEP 10: COMPLETE THE INSTALLATION NOTE: Only connect Ethernet wiring to the Powerwall 3 Ethernet ports. The Tesla Asset Controller in Powerwall 3 controls system operation, so these Ethernet ports are the only functional ports in the system. Do not connect Ethernet to the Backup Gateway Ethernet port.
  • Page 87: Step 11: Turn On And Commission The System

    STEP 11: TURN ON AND COMMISSION THE SYSTEM WARNING: Before terminating any conductors inside Powerwall 3, ensure that the integrated DC isolator and Powerwall 3 On/Off switch are both turned OFF to de-energize the system. Confirm lack of voltage at the AC and PV terminals before proceeding.
  • Page 88: Commission The System Ahead Of Solar Installation

    4. Navigate to Device Setup to begin commissioning. 5. Select Scan and scan the Powerwall 3 QR label to connect to the TeslaPW Wi-Fi network. NOTE: Connect to Powerwall 3 to commission the system. Do not attempt to connect to Backup Gateway to commission.
  • Page 89 Solar Installation Crew Instructions 1. Retrieve the Powerwall 3 accessories from the customer. These should have been left by the Powerwall crew. 2. Turn the Powerwall 3 switch OFF to de-energize the system; see Appendix F: Shutting Down Powerwall 3 on page 120 for complete de-energization instructions.
  • Page 90 5. Re-energize Powerwall 3: a. Remove the lock / tag and breaker hasp from the Powerwall 3 breaker, then turn the breaker ON. b. Turn the Powerwall 3 switch ON. 6. Turn the Powerwall 3 integrated DC isolator ON.
  • Page 91 Gateway to commission. 10. Address any alerts to complete commissioning. 11. On the Powerwall 3 Device page, compare the MPPT voltages with those listed on the planset to confirm the installation matches what is expected for the strings. 12. Perform the Backup Test with solar.
  • Page 92: Commission The System After Powerwall And Solar Installation

    NOTE: Ensure Tesla One is updated to version 7.9.1 or greater, or install Tesla One if using for the first time. 5. Navigate to Device Setup to begin commissioning. 6. Select Scan and scan the Powerwall 3 QR label to connect to the TeslaPW Wi-Fi network. Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 93 8. Leave the system running in Tesla One. 9. Leave the Powerwall switch ON and the breaker CLOSED to enable charging. NOTE: The Powerwall 3 On / Off switch has a locking mechanism. When the switch is locked it cannot be turned on. See Powerwall 3 Switch Locking Mechanisms on page 111 for more information.
  • Page 94: Step 12: Install Powerwall 3 Front Cover

    2. Ensure that all conduit junctions and cable entry points are secure and properly sealed. 3. Arrange all communication wires inside the Tesla Asset Controller cover, then close the cover. 4. Arrange all wires neatly inside the Powerwall wiring compartment.
  • Page 95 STEP 12: INSTALL POWERWALL 3 FRONT COVER 5. Install the air intake screen over the opening at the bottom of Powerwall, ensuring it snaps into place. 6. Clean the front edge of the Powerwall enclosure with a microfiber cloth to remove any debris that might interfere with the seal.
  • Page 96 STEP 12: INSTALL POWERWALL 3 FRONT COVER b. Rotate the front cover toward the enclosure to engage the top mounting tabs with the enclosure (B). Maintain pressure (approximately 2 Nm) on the front of the cover to compress the sealing gasket.
  • Page 97 Remove to reuse Remove to reuse The gasket is not required and does not impact the enclosure rating of Powerwall 3. d. Install and tighten the remaining (4X) T20 fasteners in the fastener slots on the sides of the unit (D).
  • Page 98 STEP 12: INSTALL POWERWALL 3 FRONT COVER Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 99: Step 13: Demonstrate The Installation

    When needed, the air intake vent can be removed and hosed off. To clean Powerwall 3, use a soft, lint-free cloth. If needed, the cloth can be dampened with mild soap and water only. Do not use cleaning solvents to clean Powerwall 3, or expose Powerwall 3 to flammable or harsh chemicals or vapors.
  • Page 100: Appendix A: Powerwall 3 Anchoring Details

    NOTE: At the contractor's expense and with no liability to Tesla, the homeowner and contractor can work with a third party licensed engineer and building department to develop alternative supports.
  • Page 101 APPENDIX A: POWERWALL 3 ANCHORING DETAILS Solid Concrete Wall Minimum strength must be 18 MPa. Use at least four (one in each corner, in any available anchor slot) 10 mm concrete anchors of sufficient length for at least 64 mm embedment into the wall.
  • Page 102 APPENDIX A: POWERWALL 3 ANCHORING DETAILS Channel strut shall have a maximum unsupported span of 610 mm and shall not be cantilevered. Wood Structural Members 305 mm to 432 mm If anchoring directly into wood structural members, use at least four (one in each corner) 6 mm wood screws with washers, of sufficient length for at least 64 mm embedment into the structural members.
  • Page 103: Appendix B: Wiring Reference

    3 Protective Earth terminals Green 2.5 - 25 mm 4 Integrated DC Isolator Positive Use forked terminals; Tesla recommends the following or inputs (PV 1+, 2+, 3+) equivalent: • TE Connectivity P/N 165015 (4 - 6 mm wire size)
  • Page 104: Tesla Asset Controller (Taco) Low Voltage And Communication Wiring

    APPENDIX B: WIRING REFERENCE Tesla Asset Controller (TACO) Low Voltage and Communication Wiring Communication Wiring to Backup Gateway 2 NOTE: Refer to local codes and standards for correct wiring practices and wire colors. Terminal Name Recommended Wire Color Wire Gauge...
  • Page 105 Wire Gauge Load Control + 0.2 - 1.5 mm Load Control - 0.2 - 1.5 mm TACO Low Voltage Harness Terminal Name Recommended Wire Color Wire Gauge TACO low voltage harness (provides 12V power to TACO) Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 106: Prepare Ethernet Wiring With Rj45 Connectors

    Wire Color Green striped Green Orange striped Blue Blue striped Orange Brown striped Brown 3. Test the Ethernet cable using an Ethernet tester. Ensure the readings from either end of the cable match, 1-8 in ascending order. Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 107: Backup Gateway 2 Wiring

    E Generation Neutral Bar (N) Black 2.5 – 25 mm F Non-Backup Loads and Generation Backup Loads and Generation Red, White, Blue, Black 2.5 – 35 mm (L1, L2, L3, N) G Switched Neutral-Earth link 16 mm Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 108: Backup Gateway 2 Communication Wiring

    4 Generator / Load Control (-) Black 0.2 - 1.5 mm 5 Interlock pin 0.2 - 1.5 mm Table 6. External Meter Communication Wiring (Not Used with Powerwall 3) Terminal Name Recommended Wire Color Wire Size GND (Earth)/Shield 0.2 - 1.5 mm RS485 HI #1 0.2 - 1.5 mm...
  • Page 109 0.2 - 1.5 mm RS485 HI #2 0.2 - 1.5 mm RS485 LO #2 Black 0.2 - 1.5 mm Table 7. Jump Start (Not Used with Powerwall 3) Terminal Name Recommended Wire Color Wire Size 0.2 - 1.5 mm Black 0.2 - 1.5 mm...
  • Page 110 Powerwall 3. However, to minimize the risk of nuisance trips, a 300 mA Type AC or A RCD / RCBO is recommended. Powerwall 3 does not require a Type B RCD / RCBO, as it is not capable of feeding DC fault current into the electrical installation as per IEC 60364-7-712:2002.
  • Page 111: Appendix C: System Wiring Diagrams

    The following diagrams are intended for illustration purposes only. Drawings represent sample site layouts to show example system layout and metering. These diagrams should not be considered complete plan sets. 1. Single-phase supply, single-phase solar, partial backup 2. Three-phase supply, three-phase solar, single-phase partial backup Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 112: Single-Phase Service (Tn Network)

    APPENDIX C: SYSTEM WIRING DIAGRAMS Single-Phase Service (TN Network) Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 113: Three-Phase Service (Tn Network)

    APPENDIX C: SYSTEM WIRING DIAGRAMS Three-Phase Service (TN Network) Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 114: Appendix D: Safety Features

    APPENDIX D: SAFETY FEATURES Powerwall 3 Switch Locking Mechanisms On / Off Switch Locking Mechanism The Powerwall 3 On / Off switch has a locking mechanism. When the switch is locked it cannot be turned on. Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 115: Arc Fault Detection And Protection

    APPENDIX D: SAFETY FEATURES Integrated DC Isolator Locking Mechanism The Powerwall 3 integrated DC isolator has a locking mechanism. When locked, it cannot be turned on. To use the locking mechanism: 1. Push in the yellow tab on the end of the switch to make the keyhole accessible.
  • Page 116: Protective Earth Impedance Check

    The scheduled time for the PE impedance test is every morning before closing the inverter side AC relays. Upon detected loss of PE or identification of a high impedance value Powerwall 3 does not connect to the grid until the fault is cleared manually or a repeated PE impedance test demonstrates a sufficiently low impedance.
  • Page 117: System Led Behavior

    Indication Solid white Normal operation Flashing white Powerwall 3 is idle. Will enter sleep state if no actions in progress Powerwall 3 is off or in sleep state Flashing Red Inverter (PWS) fault, e.g. AFCI or GFCI, etc. Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 118 NOTE: During a firmware update, LED 2 may flash red. This is expected behavior, and the flashing will stop once the firmware update is complete. NOTE: The Tesla Asset Controller LEDs are not visible when the Powerwall 3 front cover is installed. Powerwall 3 Installation Manual...
  • Page 119: Appendix E: Installations With Multiple Powerwall 3 Units

    Option 1: The Leader Powerwall 3 is connected to customer router over Wi-Fi. Multiple Units Option 2: Either the first or last Powerwall 3 (can be Leader or Follower) in the chain is connected to customer router via Ethernet. NOTE: Only connect the router to a Powerwall 3 at either end of the chain; do...
  • Page 120 APPENDIX E: INSTALLATIONS WITH MULTIPLE POWERWALL 3 UNITS Figure 31. Multi-Powerwall 3 System with Backup Gateway 2 AC Wiring Inter-unit Ethernet Wiring 12V/CAN Wiring Rapid Shutdown (RSD) Supplier Distribution meter Board System Only leader Powerwall 3 Shutdown is connected to...
  • Page 121 APPENDIX E: INSTALLATIONS WITH MULTIPLE POWERWALL 3 UNITS Connecting Powerwall 3 Units via Ethernet All Powerwall 3 units must be connected via Ethernet. The units can be connected in any order, so long as each unit is connected to at least one other unit.
  • Page 122 APPENDIX E: INSTALLATIONS WITH MULTIPLE POWERWALL 3 UNITS Figure 34. Example 3: Leader Powerwall 3 in Middle of Chain, Connected to Customer Router via Wi-Fi Customer Wi-Fi Leader Powerwall 3 Follower Powerwall 3 Follower Powerwall 3 Follower Powerwall 3 NOTE: If connecting the system to the customer router via Ethernet, connect the router to either the first or last Powerwall 3 in the chain.
  • Page 123: Appendix F: Shutting Down Powerwall

    APPENDIX F: SHUTTING DOWN POWERWALL 3 Powerwall 3 system shutdown for emergency response or maintenance requires system shutdown and disabling solar output. CAUTION: Open all third party solar inverter breakers or handled disconnects before shutting down the Powerwall 3 system.
  • Page 124: Appendix G: Troubleshooting

    Situations in Which Powerwall 3 Stops Grid Forming Some situations in which the Powerwall will not be allowed to grid-form are: • The Powerwall 3 On/Off switch is switched OFF. • An open circuit between any Powerwall and the Backup Gateway. Example: an open Powerwall AC breaker.
  • Page 125: Appendix H: Revision History

    Energy Metering on page 24 with additional detail about monitoring Powerwall 3 systems • Updated STEP 5: Connect Powerwall 3 to Backup Gateway on page 60 with instructions to install Tesla Grid Utility Ancillary Controller (GUAC) interface device for installations requiring DRM0 functionality •...