Update 26.34 Brings Smart Charging to Powerwall and Gen 3 Wall Connector

Update 26.34 Brings Smart Charging to Powerwall and Gen 3 Wall Connector

Software update 26.34 adds smart charging capabilities to Powerwall and the Gen 3 Wall Connector. Tesla owner @EVStraya highlighted the change on X, noting that the “Wall connector can now utilise charge on solar for smart charging.”

These features first surfaced in May via strings in the Tesla app, referencing a new Low-Cost Charging mode for Wall Connectors and an improved Charge on Solar option for Powerwall owners. The rollout is now official and also supports older Powerwall 2 systems. In one example, @EVStraya’s setup links three Powerwall 2 units to a Gen 3 Wall Connector.

How Wall Connector Smart Charging Works

Smart charging pairs your Wall Connector with your Powerwall, and charging behavior follows the operational mode set on the Powerwall.

In Savings mode, Low-Cost Charging uses your utility rate plan and solar production to charge the vehicle when energy is least expensive. This can be especially useful on time-of-use plans with cheaper overnight rates.

In Self-Powered mode, Charge on Solar directs excess solar to the vehicle, helping keep more of your home’s generated energy on site. The system still targets your configured charging level, though Tesla cautions this “may change how much your car charges daily.”

If your system is already set to Self-Powered, the update automatically switches Wall Connector smart charging to Charge on Solar. To prioritize the lowest-cost energy instead, switch to Savings mode and ensure your utility rate plan is current.

How to Set Up Smart Charging

In the Tesla app, go to Settings > Vehicle Charging > Wall Connector > Set Charging Configuration. Requirements include having the Wall Connector on the same Wi‑Fi network as the Powerwall, and only one Wall Connector can be configured for smart charging at a time.

Tesla also recommends plugging in frequently and setting “a low minimum charging target and departure time that matches your daily driving needs.” This gives the system flexibility to wait for cheaper energy or available solar without leaving you short on range.

Smart charging builds on existing Wall Connector features such as VIN-based access control and built-in charging schedules. On the home energy side, Tesla recently introduced Powershare Home Backup for the Model 3 and Model Y, enabling those vehicles to power a home during an outage, just like Cybertruck. As firmware 26.34 reaches more Powerwall owners, these smart charging behaviors are expected to become part of everyday home energy management.