About the AlphaESS SMILE
AlphaESS sells complete systems: a hybrid inverter with battery modules, or an AC-coupled unit for homes that already have solar. Modules can be added later, within the limits of each model.
If you plan to join a virtual power plant, check the provider supports AlphaESS before you buy.
AlphaESS SMILE specifications
| SMILE-G3-S5 | Hybrid inverter, 5 kW, for solar and battery |
|---|---|
| SMILE-G3-B5 | AC-coupled 5 kW system for existing solar |
| Battery module | SMILE-G3-BAT-10.1P: 10.1 kWh, 9.6 kWh usable (95% depth of discharge) |
| Chemistry | Lithium iron phosphate (LFP) |
| Warranty | 10 years product and performance, 70% of usable capacity at 10 years, while connected to AlphaESS monitoring |
What a AlphaESS SMILE costs
Installers set their own prices, so get quotes. As a benchmark, the Solar Choice Battery Price Index (August 2026 data) puts the average installed price of a 10 kWh battery with its own inverter at about $8,284, after the federal discount and including GST. AlphaESS generally sits at the value end of the market.
For a 10 kWh battery installed in 2026, the federal discount is 68 STCs, worth up to $2,720 at the $40 Clearing House price. See battery costs and battery rebates.
AlphaESS SMILE strengths and trade-offs
Strengths
AlphaESS SMILE- Hybrid and AC-coupled options
- Modular, so capacity can grow
- Long warranty while monitored
Trade-offs
Consider- Full warranty needs the system to stay online
- Usable capacity is a little below nominal on some modules
Check compatibility and the approved list
Make sure the exact model is on the Clean Energy Council approved battery list and works with your inverter, or the system will not get the federal discount.
Common questions
AlphaESS is a long-standing value brand in Australia with hybrid and AC-coupled options. Check the warranty conditions, especially the monitoring requirement.
Ten years for product and performance, with at least 70% of usable capacity at 10 years, provided the system stays connected to AlphaESS monitoring. Otherwise a limited 3-year warranty applies.
Yes. The AC-coupled SMILE models work alongside an existing solar inverter.
Sources
Specifications and warranty terms come from the manufacturer's Australian datasheet and warranty documents. Prices are from the Solar Choice Battery Price Index, an industry source. Last checked October 2026. Prices include GST unless we say otherwise.