Now that net metering is being phased out in the Netherlands, households with solar panels face a new challenge: what do you do with your excess solar energy? Energy that used to be automatically returned to the grid at a favorable price is now becoming less and less profitable. If you invest wisely in a home battery, you can store and use the generated electricity yourself during peak hours, in the evening or in the event of a power outage - and thus significantly reduce your energy bill. But which home battery best suits your family situation? In this article we thoroughly compare three popular models so that you can make the right choice.
Anker SOLIX Solarbank Max AC: smart expansion and intelligent energy management for solar panel owners
Target group: who is this system intended for?
The Anker SOLIX Solarbank Max AC has been specially developed for households that already have solar panels on the roof and want to maximize their self-sufficiency. The system is ideal for families who generate a lot of electricity during the day but consumption peaks in the evening, or who benefit from dynamic energy rates and peak/off-peak contracts. In addition, it provides reliable emergency power in the event of a power outage.
Capacity, power and service life: the core specifications
The basic module starts at 7 kWh – sufficient for the average night-time consumption of a Dutch family (6–8 kWh). The system is modularly expandable: up to 5 expansion batteries per unit, reaching a total capacity of 42 kWh. Multiple units can even be connected in parallel up to 126 kWh, making this system future-proof for growing energy needs.
The AC charging and discharging power of 3.5 kW fits seamlessly with the average peak yield of a residential solar panel system (3,000–4,000 Wp). The 3,680 W off-grid output even supports heavy appliances such as a washing machine, dishwasher or an EV charging point. The UPS function switches over within 10 milliseconds in the event of a power outage, ensuring that the refrigerator, router and other critical devices continue to function uninterrupted.
In terms of service life, the system scores impressively: 10,000 charging cycles and a design life of 15 years, backed by a 10-year manufacturer's warranty. The 100% deep discharge and the option of two complete cycles per day ensure that you make optimal use of the stored energy.
AI-driven energy management: maximum energy savings
The integrated Anker Intelligence AI system analyzes historical generation and consumption data, real-time weather forecasts and current electricity prices to automatically optimize the charging and discharging schedule. For example, the system charges at negative or low electricity rates and discharges during peak hours – exactly what you need in a world without netting. Via the Anka voice assistant you always have insight into yield, weather influence and possible production loss.
Installation and legal compliance in the Netherlands and Belgium
Thanks to the stackable modular design, installation or expansion only takes approximately 5 minutes. The system can be used plug-and-play via the supplied Schuko plug without a certified installer. For higher powers, a Wieland connection or fixed cabling is possible (certified electrician required). The system complies with Dutch and Belgian laws and regulations: Dutch users easily register via the energy website; Belgian users receive a compliance report in accordance with AREI/RGIE standards.
Application scenarios: from daily use to emergency power
Whether it concerns automatic storage of overproduction during the day, priority use of stored energy in the evening, emergency power in the event of a failure or automated energy management via smart plugs: the Anker SOLIX Solarbank Max AC covers all scenarios and makes your home more energetically independent.
Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus: the mobile home battery for at home and on the road
From portable energy storage to home storage: a strong step
Jackery is the global market leader in portable energy solutions, active in more than 50 countries. In the period 2014–2024, turnover grew by an average of 38.9% per year and net profit by 47.3% annually. Based on this proven technology, the brand has taken the step towards home storage. The Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus represents this new product category: a mobile home battery that combines the best of both worlds.
Core benefits: mobile, plug-and-play and versatile
Unlike traditional fixed home batteries, the Solar Generator 5000 Plus is completely portable. The high power and plug-and-play operation make installation simple and flexible. The system serves as a home battery for daily use as well as an emergency power solution, and can be effortlessly taken along for camping, outdoor events or construction sites – a unique “two-in-one” concept.
Performance: reliable thanks to years of technological experience
Jackery's expertise in battery protection and stability also translates into this model. The compact design makes movement easy, while compatibility with solar panels allows self-generation. Stored solar energy can be used at any time, reducing dependence on the electricity grid and the associated costs.
Market performance: fast growing popularity worldwide
In the first ten months of 2025, Jackery reclaimed the top spot in the portable power category on Amazon US and Amazon Japan. The mobile home battery category is growing rapidly and the Solar Generator 5000 Plus has become the company's second growth pillar – a sign of broad market acceptance.
BYD Battery-Box series: the long-lasting home battery from a global player in renewable energy
Brand power: verticalized production chain from electric cell to system
BYD is one of the world's largest players in the field of electric vehicles and energy storage. The entire production chain – from the development of battery cells to the integration of complete storage systems – is in our own hands. This provides a unique quality and performance guarantee that third-party suppliers cannot match.
Core technology: Blade battery for optimal safety and energy density
The Battery-Box series uses BYD's proprietary Blade lithium iron phosphate battery (LFP). This unique cell structure increases safety while optimizing energy density. The long-cell design reduces unnecessary construction elements, reduces weight and volume, improves heat dissipation and structurally reduces the risk of overheating.
Specifications: exceptionally long lifespan and wide temperature range
With more than 15,000 charging cycles, the Battery-Box series far exceeds the industry standard. This translates into a longer service life and lower total cost of ownership over its entire lifespan. Thanks to IP protection and intelligent temperature management, the system functions reliably at temperatures from -20°C to +60°C – ideal for both the cold Dutch winters and warmer summer days.
Certifications and applications: European certified for all scenarios
The Battery-Box has recognized European certifications, including VDE and the Australian CEC mark, and is widely used in the European and North American domestic markets. The system supports peak/off-peak optimization, self-sufficiency storage, backup power and combined use with solar panels – one platform for all energy needs.
Buying guide: which home battery suits your situation?
Based on the above comparison, each system has its own strengths:
- Do you already have solar panels and do you want intelligent energy management, easy expansion and quick installation? Then choose the Anker SOLIX Solarbank Max AC – the best choice for daily use and emergency power.
- Do you want a home battery that can also be used outdoors and do you value mobility and ease of use? Then the Jackery Solar Generator 5000 Plus offers the ideal flexible solution for multiple scenarios.
- Are you looking for the lowest total cost of ownership over the long term, combined with proven safety and European certification? Then the BYD Battery-Box is the most future-proof investment.
The right home battery ultimately depends on your specific situation: the size of your solar panel system, your daily consumption pattern, available budget and the local energy rates in your region. Take these factors into account in your consideration and choose the system that best suits your wishes and lifestyle.
