What Is a Tesla Powerwall and Why It Matters in Illinois

So... what is a Powerwall?

At its core, a Tesla Powerwall is a home battery. It stores electricity — usually generated by your solar panels — and holds onto it until you need it.

That might be:

At night when your panels aren’t producing
During a power outage
When your electricity rates spike
It’s basically the modern, silent, no-fuel version of a generator — and it kicks on automatically when you need it. No noise, no maintenance, no gas.

 
Why do people want them in Illinois?

1. Backup Power in Outages

Illinois doesn’t have California-style blackouts, but we do have heavy storms, ice, and aging infrastructure. When the power goes out, a Powerwall can keep your fridge, lights, and Wi-Fi running without missing a beat.

2. Energy Control

It lets you use the energy you produce, instead of sending it back to the grid. That means more control over your usage and less dependence on unpredictable delivery charges.

3. It Completes the System

Solar + Powerwall = true independence. Even though you’re still grid-connected, you’re not fully at the mercy of ComEd if something happens.

 
Can you get one through Illinois Shines?

Sometimes, yes — but it depends on the installer and your home setup. Some approved solar providers include Tesla Powerwalls as part of their $0-down package if your usage is high enough or your system is large enough to justify the battery.

That’s why reviewing your ComEd bill is important. It helps size both the solar system and determine if battery backup is a smart fit.

 
What does it cost?

Here’s the part most people don’t expect: in many cases, you don’t pay extra upfront. If the Powerwall is included, it’s rolled into your solar rate, just like the panels. You won’t even get a separate bill for it.

This only applies if your home qualifies and the installer offers it as part of their state-approved setup. But when it’s included, it’s a massive bonus.

 
Is it worth it?

If you’re the kind of person who likes reliability, hates rate hikes, or lives in a neighborhood where the lights go out every time it rains — yes. It’s worth it.

Even if you never lose power, there’s real peace of mind in knowing you’re covered.