Self-Powered

Self-Powered is an operational mode that allows your Powerwall to store solar energy not used during the day to power your home at night. Self-Powered mode increases the amount of solar energy that powers your home by storing it for use at night. This is the most effective way to reduce your carbon footprint and gain energy independence.

How It Works

When Self-Powered mode is selected in the Tesla app, your Powerwall will charge when excess solar power is produced. This stored energy will be used when your home requires more power than your solar system can provide. When you produce enough solar power to offset your home’s current consumption and Powerwall is fully charged, any excess solar power will be exported to the grid. Similarly, when you consume more power than what’s available from your solar system and stored in Powerwall, you will import power from the grid.

How to Use It

To set up Self-Powered mode in the Tesla app, follow these steps:

  1. On your energy home screen, tap ‘Settings.’
  2. Open the 'Powerwall' menu.
  3. Under ‘Operational Mode,’ select ‘Self-Powered.’
  4. Set your preferred Backup Reserve by adjusting the slider at the top of the screen.


When using Self-Powered mode, you can monitor how much of your home is being powered from stored solar by using the Tesla app. From your energy home screen, tap ‘Impact’ and locate the ‘Self-Powered’ card.