Intersolar recap: Key updates to home battery storage product portfolios

At Intersolar North America in San Diego, FranklinWH Energy Storage Inc. announced a number of firsts. For starters, the new aPower S is the first residential battery to use Gen 2 grid-scale cells that generate more than 10,000 cycles, and it is first system from FranklinWH with a hybrid inverter to enable DC coupling with solar panels. Meanwhile, FranklinWH announced its first U.S. manufacturing facility will open in California this spring.

“The launch of the new aPower series opens a whole new chapter, not just for FranklinWH but for the evolution of home energy resilience,” said Gary Lam, Co-Founder and CEO of FranklinWH. “With decades of experience in this industry, I’ve always believed that true energy freedom comes from reliable, high-quality solutions that homeowners can trust. By investing in local manufacturing, we are not only ensuring higher quality and supply chain security but also creating new opportunities for economic growth and a more sustainable future for all.

What’s new with aPower S | The aPower S, like the aPower 2, has 15 kWh capacity with 60 MWh throughput. The battery’s impressive capacity offers additional benefits for VPP programs by maximizing potential savings. The aPower S hybrid inverter, directly connects PV panels via DC while providing AC power to the home, simplifying installation. Simplified wiring solutions take only 15 minutes to complete and the aPower S battery can be commissioned in five minutes via the FranklinWH App. The aPower S contains four 15 A MPPTs and provides 8 kW of charging power and 10 kW of discharge power. The aPower S also operates at noise levels as low as 30 dBA.

Foretress Power debuts VPP-ready eForce system, and a 30-year warranty

Fortress Power launched its newest product, eForce, and was also added to Solar Insure’s approved vendor list.

First, the eForce. This is a modular, stackable and VPP-ready energy storage system. Each 9.6kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery module can deliver 8,000+ cycles. eForce seamlessly integrates key components to enhance efficiency and streamline installation. At the heart of the system is the eWay—a specialized wireway equipped with built-in busbars, conduit ports, and an emergency switch, simplifying system connectivity. For even greater functionality, the Fortress Power Envy True 12kW inverter bolts directly onto the eWay. Each battery module is connected through two Wireless Quick Plugs, making adding battery capacity effortless.

In terms of Virtual Power Plant Support, homeowners in eligible areas can generate revenue from their system. The eForce is approved with a few VPP programs in the Northeast, namely Green Mountain Power, ConnectedSolutions and Connecticut ESS. More are coming online as well.

Solar Insure collaboration | Solar Insure is a system monitoring and warranty solutions provider. Being added to the Solar Insure approved vendor list means Fortress Power whole home energy storage systems can be offered with Solar Insure’s 30-year monitoring and warranty coverage.

Solar Insure allows customers to own  their energy system and gain the freedom to participate in VPP programs, increase your power capacity, and expand your system anytime — all while maintaining control over pricing. Solar Insure takes care of service costs for covered claims, providing homeowners with peace of mind. With $0 deductible and truck roll coverage, homeowners are protected from unexpected repair expenses. Solar Insure pays installers directly for any necessary repairs.

Learn more about Fortress Power in this episode of The Pitch:

Enphase domestic content update

Enphase Energy launched an expanded IQ Battery 5P product with support for both single-phase 120/208 V and split-phase 120/240 V, for new home projects in California. Since California Title 24 mandates solar for all new homes, and NEM 3.0 devalues solar-only systems, new homes with solar + storage systems are increasingly important. With support for a wider range of voltage requirements, the IQ Battery 5P helps builders and homeowners maximize solar value under NEM 3.0, while streamlining Energy Design Rating (EDR) compliance. Its modular design starts at 5 kWh, making it an ideal fit for smaller solar systems in new homes.

Domestic content | The IQ Battery 5P is also ready to take advantage of the new cost percentages in the First Updated Safe Harbor Table for calculating domestic content

Emtel Energy wins New Product Showcase with non-lithium battery

At The Hub Stage, I hosted a panel of entrants in the Intersolar New Product Showcase. Emtel Energy USA CMO Stephanie Choi Brookes explained their true solid-state non-lithium energy storage solution. Emtel specializes in electrostatic supercapacitor-based energy storage solutions that deliver high efficiency, long-duration performance, and enhanced safety. Their proprietary technology ensures stable energy retention and controlled release, making it an ideal alternative for a range of applications — from wall-mounted residential to containerized utility-scale ESS. No heating or cooling needed — operates efficiently from -22°F to 140°F. Over 95% efficiency for 10-20 Years with near-zero degradation.

The ENWALL is designed for homes and light commercial applications: