Anker Solix E10: Whole-Home Backup vs. Tesla

Anker has officially launched the Solix E10, a new home battery backup system entering the competitive energy storage market. The device is positioned as a direct competitor to Tesla, offering 'whole-home backup' capabilities at what the company describes as an affordable price point.

The system is engineered to handle high-power demands, specifically citing the ability to run heavy-duty air conditioners and other large appliances during a blackout. A key selling point is the stackable, plug-and-play design, which Anker claims makes the system intuitive enough for some buyers to install themselves, potentially reducing installation costs.

Regarding performance, a single E10 unit delivers up to 37.2kW of surge power. This can be expanded by stacking units; two units provide 66kW, and three units boost the total capacity to 90kWh. The system also features a 'turbo output' mode capable of sustaining 10kW per unit for a maximum of 90 minutes. With an auto-switch time of 20ms from grid to battery, the transition during an outage is designed to be seamless.

The E10 is compatible with solar inputs of up to 9kW per unit (or 27kW with three units) and can be paired with an optional tri-fuel generator for extended runtime. The units are weatherproof with all-metal enclosures, operating in temperatures from -4 to 131 degrees Fahrenheit. Pricing varies based on configuration, starting at $4,299 for the base unit and reaching $7,399 with the Power Dock and Smart Generator. The system is currently available for pre-order.

The Solix E10 is built around a modular architecture that allows users to scale power output and capacity based on their specific needs. The base unit is capable of delivering significant surge power, which is critical for starting large motors found in HVAC systems and refrigerators.

When operating as a standalone unit, the E10 provides up to 37.2kW of surge power. However, the system's true strength lies in its scalability. By physically stacking units, users can achieve higher power outputs suitable for larger homes or higher energy demands.

Power output scaling includes:

• Single Unit: 37.2kW surge power
• Two Units: 66kW surge power
• Three Units: 90kWh total capacity

In addition to surge power, the E10 features a turbo output mode. This function allows the system to output 10kW of power per unit for a duration of up to 90 minutes. This is designed to handle temporary high-load situations without draining the battery reserves completely.

Regarding capacity, stacking three E10 units results in a total of 90kWh. Anker suggests this configuration can provide whole-home backup for up to 15 days. This estimate is based on average US energy consumption of 30kWh per day, though actual duration will vary depending on household usage patterns.

Anker emphasizes ease of use with the Solix E10, specifically targeting the installation process. The stackable, plug-and-play design is intended to minimize the complexity typically associated with home battery systems. The company claims this modularity allows for lower installation costs compared to manufacturers like Tesla and suggests that the intuitive design may enable DIY installation for some users.

The system also addresses the transition of power during a grid failure. The E10 boasts a minimal auto-switch time of 20ms when moving from grid power to battery power. This speed is intended to prevent disruption to sensitive electronics and ensure that users may not even notice a blackout has occurred.

Two optional components facilitate power switching and charging:

• Power Dock: Enables the 20-millisecond auto-switching feature in the event of an outage.
• Smart Inlet Box: Provides a manual switchover option. This component allows the E10 batteries to be charged from the grid using existing solar systems, a feature designed to help users save money on energy costs.

Furthermore, the units are designed for outdoor installation. The all-metal enclosures provide weatherproofing, allowing operation in extreme temperatures ranging from -4 to 131 degrees Fahrenheit.

The Solix E10 is designed to integrate with renewable energy sources and backup generators, ensuring continuous power regardless of grid status. The system handles significant solar input, making it viable for homes with existing or new solar panel installations.

Solar input capacity is as follows:

• Single Unit: Up to 9kW of input
• Three Units: Up to 27kW of input

For users requiring extended backup during prolonged outages or off-grid scenarios, the E10 can be paired with the Anker Solix Smart Generator 5500. This is a tri-fuel generator capable of running on gasoline, propane, or natural gas.

The integration between the generator and the battery system is optimized for efficiency. The Smart Generator charges the E10 batteries via DC connection, bypassing the energy losses associated with AC conversion. This direct charging method ensures that fuel is used as effectively as possible to keep the batteries charged.

The Solix E10 is available in several configurations to suit different budgets and requirements. The pricing structure reflects the inclusion of optional accessories that enhance the system's functionality.

The available purchase options include:

• Base Unit: $4,299
• With Smart Inlet Box: $4,599
• With Solix Power Dock: $5,799
• With Power Dock and Smart Generator: $7,399

For those requiring additional capacity, adding an extra E10 unit to the bundle containing the Power Dock and Smart Generator raises the total price to approximately $10,000. Anker maintains that despite the hardware costs, the overall investment is competitive due to the potential for lower installation fees and the system's modular nature. The Solix E10 is currently listed as available for pre-order.