How Does the Tesla NEM Integrity Mode Work
January 7, 2026
Customers With Solar Wanting To Add More
Previously, customers with existing solar in Pacific Gas & Electric, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas & Electric territory wanting to add more solar needed to update both systems to the current Net Billing Tariff (NEM 3.0) rate plan. That meant losing NEM 1.0/2.0’s full retail credits for exported energy, compared to the low avoided cost rates of only a few cents per kWh under Net Billing Tariff.
Tesla released a new Powerwall software feature called NEM Integrity Mode which now allows you to add more solar + Powerwall and keep the existing system on NEM 1.0/2.0’s under a rate plan called Multi Tariff.
How It Works
NEM Integrity Mode monitors the existing solar system’s generation and caps exports to match your original NEM 2.0 approved levels. Solar production above the original system rating is directed to battery charging or home use only. If Powerwall is fully charged and the sun is out, the new system will reduce its output to produce only enough to cover the home’s demand while the existing system exports to the grid at full value. This is intended behavior and required to keep NEM 1.0/2.0’s on the existing system.
How Do I Know What Rate Plan Is Best For Me?
Tesla conducted a fleet review to model which option has the best value, which determined that most customers with an 70-130% offset on the new system will benefit from NEM Integrity more over the life of their system.
| New Solar Offset | Best Rate Plan | Why |
|---|---|---|
| < 70% | Net Billing | You will export relatively little, so VPP earnings with faster + cheaper interconnection outweighs higher export value |
| 70-130% | NEM Integrity | Protects the export value of energy from your original system while adding more solar to cover your energy needs + backup protection |
| > 130% | Net Billing | Curtailment of the new system will be too high, so VPP earnings with faster + cheaper interconnection is better |
Additional Benefits
Backup Protection and Independence
Adding a Powerwall provides reliable backup, powering your home during grid outages or when the utility is most expensive.
A Unified Energy Experience
If your original solar system was not installed by Tesla, adding Powerwall brings your energy system into the Tesla app, making it easier to monitor and manage your home’s energy.