Sigenergy SigenStor vs Tesla Powerwall 3: A Comprehensive Solar Battery Comparison
As solar adoption continues to rise in Australia, many homeowners are exploring ways to become more energy independent and prepared for blackouts. If you’ve checked solar batteries online, you’ve likely come across two top contenders: the Tesla Powerwall 3 and the Sigenergy SigenStor. When considering options for energy storage, the comparison of Sigenergy vs Tesla Powerwall 3 is often top of mind. Both combine a hybrid inverter and battery into one system. But which one is better for your home?
At Volteam Electric, we supply and install both the Tesla Powerwall 3 and the Sigenergy SigenStor. Each offers compelling benefits depending on your needs and budget. In this comparison review, we’ll walk you through their key differences and help you make an informed decision.
What Is a Solar Battery?
A solar battery stores unused solar energy produced during the day. Instead of sending excess energy back to the grid, a battery allows you to save it and use it later, at night, during peak rate times, or in the event of a blackout.
Today’s top battery solutions go beyond simple storage. They include integrated hybrid inverters, modular design options, and smart features to enhance both performance and usability.
Sigenergy vs Tesla Powerwall 3: Overview
Here’s a quick look at how the two systems compare at a glance:
| Feature | Tesla Powerwall 3 | Sigenergy SigenStor |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 13.5kWh fixed capacity | Modular 8kWh battery blocks (expandable up to 48kWh per stack) |
| Design | Sleek, fully integrated design | Stackable system with inverter mounted on top |
| Inverter | Built-in hybrid inverter | Inverter included in stack |
| System Compatibility | Optimised for Tesla solar but compatible with others | Compatible with various solar systems |
| Phase Support | Ideal for single-phase homes | Available in both single and three-phase setups |
| Blackout Backup | Backs up one phase only in three-phase homes (unless additional units) | Offers full three-phase backup |
| Scalability | Limited to fixed units (13.5kWh per unit) | Ideal for homes with growing energy needs due to modular scalability |
Energy Efficiency & Conversion Losses
Every time solar power is converted, from DC to AC or back, some energy is lost. That’s why system design matters.
- DC-Coupled Systems (Power from solar panels goes directly to the battery before being converted for home use): Higher efficiency
- AC-Coupled Systems (Power is converted to AC first, then back to DC to store): Slightly less efficient due to multiple conversion steps
Powerwall 3 Efficiency:
- DC-coupled efficiency: ~97.5%
SigenStor Efficiency:
- DC-coupled efficiency: ~98%
- Slight edge in conversion performance
Backup Power & Blackout Protection
Powerwall 3
- Best suited for single-phase homes
- In three-phase homes, it only backs up one phase (additional inverters needed for full coverage)
- Features Storm Watch, which charges the battery before forecasted weather events
SigenStor
- Offers full three-phase backup
- Available for both single- and three-phase homes
- Compatible with backup generators for added reliability
If your home has a three-phase connection and you want full-home blackout protection, SigenStor is the superior option.
Battery Capacity & Scalability
Not all homes have the same energy needs, and those needs may grow over time. Here’s how these two batteries compare when it comes to flexibility:
Tesla Powerwall 3
- Fixed 13.5kWh capacity per unit
- Stackable up to 4 units (54kWh)
- Tesla is planning to release ‘Powerwall-only’ units in 2025 to expand storage up to 16 units (216kWh), but they are not yet available
Sigenergy SigenStor
- Modular 8kWh battery blocks
- Expandable up to 48kWh per stack
- No technical limit on total capacity, suitable for larger homes and commercial buildings
- Highly scalable from day one
If you want the flexibility to add more capacity in the future, SigenStor’s modular design offers far more versatility.
Installation & Design
Tesla Powerwall 3
- Fully integrated design (battery and inverter in one housing)
- Minimalist, space-saving appearance
- Ideal for homeowners prioritising aesthetics
Sigenergy SigenStor
- Stackable system (inverter sits on top of modular batteries)
- Slightly larger footprint depending on configuration
- Practical, industrial design suited to larger systems
While the Powerwall may win on visual design, SigenStor makes up for it in adaptability and capacity.
Real-Time Monitoring & Smart Features
Tesla App
- Real-time tracking of energy production, usage, and storage
- Sleek, intuitive interface
- Integrates with Tesla EV chargers and solar systems
Sigenergy App
- Detailed data on system performance and battery health
- Compatible with other energy systems
- Designed for flexibility and future upgrades
Both systems offer excellent smart monitoring. Tesla’s app is more polished, but SigenStor offers comparable functionality.
Warranty & Durability
Tesla Powerwall 3
- 10-year warranty
- Maintains 70% of original capacity over that period
- ~4,000–6,000 cycles
Sigenergy SigenStor
- 10-year warranty
- Cycle life: up to 8,000 cycles (varies by model and usage)
- Uses lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO₄) chemistry, stable and long-lasting
SigenStor may edge out Tesla in cycle life and long-term performance, especially for heavy users.
Price Comparison: Sigenergy vs tesla Powerwall 3
Tesla Powerwall 3
- Approx. $13,600 AUD (excluding installation)
Sigenergy SigenStor
- Varies based on configuration
- 8kWh starting price is more affordable
- Larger systems will cost more but offer far greater capacity
SigenStor is the more affordable and scalable option upfront, especially for homes with three-phase power or commercial needs.
Sigenergy vs Tesla Powerwall 3: Final Verdict
Both the Tesla Powerwall 3 and Sigenergy SigenStor are reliable, future-ready solar battery systems. Your decision comes down to how much flexibility, capacity, and backup coverage you need.
Choose Tesla Powerwall 3 if:
- You’re in a single-phase home
- You value sleek design and tight integration with Tesla products
- You want reliable backup without planning future expansion
Choose Sigenergy if:
- You have a three-phase home and need full backup
- You want modular, scalable capacity
- You’re planning to expand your solar storage over time
At Volteam Electric, we help Australian homeowners choose and install the right solar battery solution, backed by industry expertise and friendly, local support.
Interested in a free quote or consultation?
