Balcony solar power systems under scrutiny
Balcony power plants are becoming increasingly popular as homeowners seek to reduce their electricity costs and contribute to the energy transition. Two of the most talked-about options in the market are the Anker Solarbank 3 Pro and the Growatt NEXA 2000.
Capacity and Efficiency
The Anker Solarbank 3 Pro stands out with a higher solar input capacity, supporting up to 3600 W PV input with four MPPT trackers, compared to the Growatt NEXA 2000's recommended PV input power of 1800 W max, using two MPPT inputs.
In terms of battery capacity, the Anker Solarbank 3 Pro offers a modular system that can be expanded up to 16.12 kWh, while the Growatt NEXA 2000 has a capacity of 2.048 kWh per block, expandable up to 8.192 kWh. Both systems use Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries.
AC Output and Power
The Anker Solarbank 3 Pro provides an 800 W network-coupled AC output, which can be adjusted up to 1200 W, while the Growatt NEXA 2000 has a maximum charging power of 2000 W.
Protection and Durability
Both systems are designed for outdoor use, with the Anker Solarbank 3 Pro boasting an IP65 rating and a guaranteed lifespan of 15 years, while the Growatt NEXA 2000 features an IP66 protection and a 10-year warranty.
Cost and Cost-effectiveness
The initial cost for a PV storage system is 585 euros cheaper with the Growatt NEXA 2000 compared to the Anker Solarbank 3 Pro. However, the modular design and higher efficiency of the Anker Solarbank 3 Pro can yield better long-term savings and scalability, especially in systems requiring higher solar input or expansion.
Choosing Between Anker and Growatt
The right choice between Anker and Growatt depends on personal circumstances and preferences. For balcony power plants requiring higher capacity and efficiency with flexibility to expand, the Anker Solarbank 3 Pro is the superior performer. On the other hand, for more basic or budget-constrained setups, the Growatt NEXA 2000 offers a competitive price-performance ratio but with lower maximum input and less modularity.
Availability and Pricing
The Anker SOLIX Solarbank 3 Pro is available at Kleines Kraftwerk starting at 1,299 euros for the basic model, while the Growatt NEXA 2000 is available at ACTEC for 715 euros plus shipping for the 2-kWh storage without a smart meter.
In conclusion, both the Anker Solarbank 3 Pro and the Growatt NEXA 2000 are excellent choices for balcony power plants. The decision between the two depends on your specific needs and budget.
