FranklinWH aPower S & aPower2 Home Battery Systems

aPower S is a hybrid-coupled 15 kWh battery with an integrated solar inverter, four MPPTs, and up to 20 kW of direct PV input, so it is the clearer choice for a new solar-plus-storage project. aPower2 is a 15 kWh AC-coupled battery that works alongside an existing PV inverter or microinverters, making it the simpler path for retrofit and AC-coupled expansion.

Each $11,329 bundle in this collection includes one 15 kWh battery platform and one aGate energy management controller. The aPower S bundle is built around direct PV integration; the aPower2 bundle is AC-coupled. Installation labor, permits, conductors, disconnects, and site-specific electrical equipment are not included unless the product page states otherwise.

Yes. The AC-coupled aPower2 and aGate architecture is designed for retrofit projects and can operate alongside many existing string-inverter and microinverter systems. Final compatibility depends on the exact inverter, electrical panel, utility requirements, firmware, communications, and engineered one-line diagram.

aGate is the system controller and transfer equipment. It coordinates grid power, FranklinWH batteries, solar, generators, and selected home loads; provides automatic backup transfer; supports whole-home or partial-home designs; and enables monitoring and operating modes through the FranklinWH app.

FranklinWH states that aPower S and aPower2 provide 15 kWh per unit and can scale to as many as 15 compatible batteries per aGate, or 225 kWh. The practical count is determined by backup loads, service size, available wall or floor space, solar and generator recharge power, code requirements, and the approved system design.

Runtime depends on the average load. As a simple planning example, 15 kWh divided by a steady 3 kW load equals about five hours before allowing for reserve settings and conversion losses. Critical-load backup can last much longer than whole-home operation with air conditioning, electric heating, EV charging, or other large loads.

FranklinWH systems can be designed for generator integration and off-grid operation, and supported configurations can restart from solar after a depleted-battery shutdown. Generator model, start controls, fuel supply, transfer design, firmware, and commissioning must be verified against current FranklinWH documentation by a qualified installer.

For a new array, compare aPower S and Powerwall 3 as integrated solar-and-storage platforms. For an existing array, aPower2 provides a purpose-built AC-coupled retrofit path that can preserve the current PV inverter. Compare usable capacity, continuous and surge output, PV inputs, backup-panel design, generator support, warranty throughput, local installer support, and total installed cost.

Existing NEM customers can pair qualified storage with their generating facility, but utility metering, operating-mode, export-control, and interconnection rules still apply. Adding storage without increasing the approved generating capacity is different from expanding the solar array. Policy information was reviewed September 26, 2026; confirm the proposed design with PG&E, SCE, SDG&E, or the applicable utility before purchase.

SGIP eligibility and incentive levels depend on the active budget category, utility territory, customer qualifications, project design, reservation timing, and available funds. Do not assume a fixed dollar-per-kWh rebate. Policy information was reviewed September 26, 2026; use the official SGIP website, current 2026 handbook, and program administrator guidance for the project address.

A typical installation requires an engineered one-line diagram, local electrical permit, inspection, utility paperwork when applicable, code-compliant transfer and disconnect equipment, and commissioning by qualified personnel. Requirements vary by jurisdiction and utility. Self2Solar can supply equipment and help with system selection, but site design and installation should be completed by properly licensed professionals.

Current FranklinWH documentation states a 15-year or 60 MWh throughput warranty for qualified aPower S and aPower2 products. Product listings reference LFP chemistry and system safety certifications such as UL 9540A and UL 1741 where applicable. Verify the exact model, certification document, CEC listing, registration deadline, and warranty terms before permitting or purchase.