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Installing Powerwall Without Backup

With more than a million units manufactured worldwide, Tesla Energy’s Powerwall has become one of the most popular home battery and energy management systems for householders. Until recently, every Tesla Powerwall installation required a Gateway, even when customers had no interest in backup functionality. This has now changed. The new approach allows Powerwall to be installed without backup, which brings clear advantages for installers and homeowners, particularly when it comes to reducing system costs.

Tesla Powerwall Without the Gateway

For projects where backup power isn’t required, a non-backup configuration is now available for Tesla Powerwall 3 installations under G98, G99 and G100 standards. In place of the Gateway, you just need to install a Tesla Remote Meter, or TRM, connected via an RS485 cable. In the event of a grid outage, the system simply shuts off.

Quicker, Simpler Installation

This change doesn’t just reduce hardware costs. It also cuts installation time by around half a day, benefitting both you and the homeowner. Tesla Energy estimates a typical saving of £1,000–£1,500 per installation when you take into account the cost of the Gateway and the time and labour needed to fit it.

Tesla Remote Meter (TRM) – The Details

Backed by a 10-year warranty, the TRM supports both single-phase and three-phase supplies. You can install a maximum of two TRMs per site.

The unit comes with a CT clamp, voltage harness, external antenna and fixings. You’ll need to order the RS485 cable, which is mandatory for non-backup installations. The meter has three CT ports, and you can buy additional CTs for larger installations or three-phase systems.

If you need to extend the CT, you can do so using Tesla CT 3.5m extensions, up to a maximum length of 8.5m. For G100 compliance, the TRM must be hardwired via the RS485 cable, up to 100m. There is also a WiFi option for AC-coupled solar systems, which is useful for monitoring other on-site generation, such as third-party systems where it may be impractical to run a new cable.

Caption: A non-backup Powerwall installation requires a remote meter and RS485 cable harness.

What if the Homeowner Needs Backup Later?

If the homeowner changes their mind and wants to add backup at a later date, it’s simply a process of swapping out the remote meter for the Tesla Backup Gateway. This gives them the flexibility of either whole-home backup or isolating essential loads such as lighting, a fridge or a boiler. Non-essential loads can be wired separately to prevent high-demand items like EV chargers or hot tubs from draining the battery during a power cut.

Caption: Adding backup to Powerwall later is simply a case of swapping out the remote meter for the Tesla Gateway.

What This Means for Tesla Installers

The new, slimmed-down configuration makes Powerwall even more versatile. You can now offer homeowners a more cost-effective route into battery storage and energy management from Tesla Energy when backup isn’t a priority, while still providing the option of a full Gateway setup for those who want whole-home backup.

When Will the Non-Backup Configuration Be Available for Powerwall 3 Installations?

The TRM and accessories are available now, and the firmware update to enable the non-backup option is also rolling out. Speak to your CCL account manager for further details.

Want to Learn More?

Want to find out more about how to install Tesla Powerwall 3 without a Gateway? Watch our video:

How to install Tesla Powerwall 3 without a Gateway

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