ABC News Daily Why won’t Musk let Tesla EVs power homes?
14 snips
Aug 10, 2025 Energy reporter Dan Mercer dives into the intriguing topic of why Tesla electric vehicles, despite their powerful batteries, aren’t utilized to power homes. He explores the innovative technologies enabling EVs to contribute energy to households and the grid. Mercer discusses Tesla's reluctance and contrasts it with other vehicle models that embrace this capability. As Australia shifts towards greener energy, he highlights the potential benefits and challenges of integrating EV batteries into home energy management systems.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Car Enthusiast Embraces EVs
- Richard Chapman, a lifelong car enthusiast in Fremantle, owns three EVs and has solar plus home batteries which he charges during cheap daytime tariffs.
- He wants to draw from his EVs' large batteries to power his house when his home batteries run out.
Manufacturers Block Home Power Use
- Tesla currently doesn't allow Australian customers to use their cars to power homes, and DIY solutions can void warranties and breach rules.
- That manufacturer restriction is the single biggest barrier stopping many owners from using EV batteries as household storage.
Battery Wear And Business Motives
- Tesla argues heavy cycling from home/grid use accelerates battery degradation and raises warranty and liability concerns.
- Observers also note Tesla sells stationary home batteries, which may create a commercial disincentive to enable two-way vehicle use.