Anker SOLIX Solarbank 2 E1600 Pro Set (with RS50S)

The unused feeding of precious solar power into the public grid significantly reduces the profitability of traditional balcony power plants. Anker addresses this issue in its Solarbank 2 generation with a highly integrated storage solution that embeds the inverter directly into the battery housing. With the powerful RS50S modules included, users receive an efficient, modular system that noticeably simplifies the entry into solar-supported base load coverage and minimizes cable clutter.

Classification and target audience

Within the SOLIX ecosystem, this set positions itself as the sensible and flexibly scalable golden mean for urban and suburban areas. Those reading relevant expert reports or an Anker SOLIX Solarbank 2 E1600 Pro test will recognize the primary target audience: renters with large balconies, terrace owners, and homeowners who want to effectively reduce their ongoing electricity costs (such as for refrigerators, routers, and standby devices) without having to set up a heavy large system directly. Individuals seeking a full-fledged emergency power backup (island operation) for the entire house during a blackout or wanting to operate high-consumption devices like heat pumps independently do not belong to the target audience of this expansion stage.

The heart of the system: The storage and inverter unit

The central element of the system is the Solarbank 2 E1600 Pro. It combines a durable battery and an 800-watt inverter (or a switchable 1200-watt inverter) in a single, weatherproof housing, making installation a straightforward plug-and-play experience.

• 1.6 kWh base capacity: The integrated battery relies on extremely safe lithium iron phosphate cells (LiFePO4) and provides a capacity of 1.6 kilowatt-hours. This allows the stored energy from the evening hours to be efficiently used into the night.
• Modular storage expansion up to 9.6 kWh: Should energy demand increase, the capacity can be flexibly adjusted. The system can be tool-free expanded to up to 9.6 kWh using stackable expansion batteries.
• Four independent MPPT trackers: The E1600 Pro features four separate MPP trackers. This allows each of the four supplied modules to be controlled completely independently, a significant advantage when the panels are exposed to varying shading throughout the day.
• Robust construction: Thanks to the IP65 certification, the storage unit is completely dust and water jet protected and can be easily placed outdoors year-round.

The power plants: The RS50S solar modules and expandability

To quickly charge the battery even on cloudy days, Anker supplies four RS50S ultra-solar modules in this set.

• 2.0 kWp total output in the set: Each of the modules delivers exactly 500 watt peak (Wp). Thus, the combined four-pack achieves a PV input power of 2,000 watts, maximizing energy yield.
• Expandable to up to 12 modules: The system is also future-proof on the input side. Through additional expansion hubs, the system supports the connection of up to 12 solar modules to generate enough power even during the sun-poor winter months.
• Bifacial N-Type TopCon technology: The modules utilize state-of-the-art N-Type cells for top-notch efficiency. Thanks to the bifacial coating, the backside also converts reflected light (e.g., from bright terrace tiles) into electricity, potentially increasing real yield by up to 20%.
• Elegant glass-glass design: The mechanically extremely robust "double-glass" construction in an elegant full black look makes the modules a visual highlight on any roof or terrace.

Weaknesses and compromises

Despite the excellent integration, functional compromises must be accepted compared to the more expensive "Solarbank 4" models. The most significant point is the lack of a true, powerful island mode: The E1600 Pro does not provide a full-fledged Schuko emergency power socket with high continuous power directly on the device to autonomously continue operating heavy household appliances during a power outage. The system is primarily designed for grid-synchronous feeding.

Additionally, the physical size of the four 500W panels requires logistical skill. The RS50S modules are noticeably larger and heavier than conventional 400W standard modules due to their high output, making mounting on a classic balcony railing more difficult and usually requiring placement in the garden or on a flat roof. Furthermore, the precise, second-accurate control of feeding (e.g., via smart plugs) requires a stable Wi-Fi signal at the storage's installation location.

Conclusion & purchase recommendation

The Anker SOLIX Solarbank 2 E1600 Pro Set (with RS50S) offers an excellent price-performance ratio for anyone looking for a smart, visually appealing, and modularly expandable solar solution.

Those wishing to purchase the Anker SOLIX E1600 Pro Set are investing in a highly developed all-in-one system that, thanks to the four MPPT trackers and 500W modules, delivers maximum yields even in challenging lighting conditions. Those who can forgo true emergency power island capability but are looking for a future-proof smartphone-controlled balcony power plant recommendation that can be expanded to up to 9.6 kWh storage and 12 modules will find the most rounded package currently on the market here.