Device interoperability is the ability of a product, or system to cooperate with other products or systems to share resources. Zemo goes on to explain that this facility involves more than mere compatibility where devices operate side-by-side. For example, cars and roads are interoperable, while cars and bicycles are compatible. We discuss battery interoperability, and whether this should be mandatory.
Device Interoperability Offers a Battery of Advantages
Interoperability can mean a consumer is not locked in to a sole supplier or platform. They may, for example, have access to a wider range of options, and be able to migrate their equipment, assets and data. They may even be able to change service providers for the same equipment.
Many suppliers, for example some phone and cloud storage providers, deliberately prevent their customers from migrating. Apple and Microsoft data, for example, can be nigh impossible to transfer between the two systems. The two companies would need to actively collaborate to make this possible.
Is Tesla Blocking Battery Interoperability in Australia?
The Guardian reported a possible complication on July 6, 2024. The media notes ‘Tesla is required in many US states to enable so-called interoperability of batteries’. While the energy giant ‘disables that capability’ in its Powerwall 2 storage batteries it sells in Australia.
If this were to be the case, then those Australian customers might have difficulty controlling their batteries via other devices. As, for example, they are able to control their their hot water heaters, air conditioners, and solar panels during peak load times using their smartphones.
As things stand now, again according to The Guardian, Australian virtual power plants cannot request power from Powerwall 2 batteries directly.
We understand that companies like Amber are ‘subject to Tesla’s commercial and operational conditions’. And that these ‘are not always in the interests of the owner of the battery,’ This issue may need revisiting in future, given the increasing role of virtual power plants in Australia’s energy mix.
More Information
Virtual Power Plant Technology Unpacked
