The energy landscape in the Netherlands is changing drastically. Whereas solar panels used to always be profitable thanks to the net metering program, new legislation is now forcing us to manage our self-generated electricity more efficiently. Starting in 2027, your energy bill will look very different because the net metering program is being phased out, meaning you’ll receive significantly less for electricity you feed back into the grid.
The only effective way to stay ahead of this change is to maximize your self-consumption by storing electricity when the sun is shining. The Anker SOLIX Solarbank Max AC is the ideal solution for this; thanks to its plug-and-play setup and advanced AI optimization, you’ll be ready for the future right away, without complicated installation or renovations.
What is net metering, and why is it ending in 2027?
Net metering is the process of offsetting the electricity you feed back into the grid against the electricity you consume. For a long time, the power grid served as your “free battery.” The government is phasing out the net metering program for two reasons. First, due to grid overload—the power grid becomes overloaded when everyone feeds electricity back at the same time. But also for the energy transition. To keep the grid stable, the government wants you to consume electricity at the moment it’s generated.
Starting in 2027, the net metering program will be discontinued immediately, meaning you’ll receive only a fraction of the price for your surplus solar power: the feed-in tariff.
What does the end of the net metering system mean for your solar panels?
Whereas you currently benefit from a 1-to-1 offset, the market is shifting toward a model in which you could be financially penalized for a surplus of solar power.
The main difference between net metering and feeding electricity back into the grid lies in the value of your electricity. After the phase-out, you’ll receive only a minimal compensation for your surplus, while the price of the electricity you purchase (including taxes) remains high.
In addition, more and more suppliers are introducing feed-in charges: a fixed fee or penalty you pay for sending electricity back to an overloaded grid. Without a battery, you’ll pay the full price for electricity in the evening, while during the day you’re essentially giving away your valuable electricity for free.
The elimination of net metering calls for a critical review of your energy contract. Especially with fixed-rate and variable-rate contracts, costs can creep up unnoticed unless you take control.
Home batteries are becoming more important than ever
Now that the certainty of net metering is disappearing, the focus is shifting from “generating as much as possible” to “using as much as possible yourself.” A home battery is indispensable in this regard. The battery stores the excess electricity your solar panels generate during the day, instead of feeding it (almost for free) into the grid. When the sun goes down and your electricity usage increases—for example, for cooking or running the washing machine—you use your own stored energy first. This way, you become your own energy supplier.
When choosing a battery, there are two main differences:
- Permanent installation: These are often large systems that must be connected to the meter box by a certified installer.
- Plug-in home battery: You don’t need an installer, which immediately saves you hundreds of euros, and the system is up and running within 5 minutes.
Without a battery, you use, on average, only 30% of the solar power you generate. With smart storage, you can increase this percentage to as much as 80% or more. The more you use yourself, the less you’ll be affected by the phase-out of the net metering program and rising feed-in tariffs.
The Anker SOLIX Solarbank Max AC
The brand-new Anker SOLIX Solarbank Max AC goes beyond just storage. Thanks to its integrated AI software and full support for dynamic contracts, the system switches between charging and discharging at lightning speed. Why choose the Solarbank Max AC?
- Unbelievably affordable: Compared to traditional stationary home batteries, the Solarbank Max AC costs a fraction of the price (€2,499). You save on both the unit and installation costs.
- Installation in 5 minutes: No technician needed. Just plug it into a grounded outlet and connect your solar panels. Done.
- Easily expandable: Thanks to its modular design, you can easily snap on additional battery modules. Your storage capacity effortlessly grows along with your consumption, up to 42 kWh.
- Maximum savings: By managing storage and consumption smartly, this system can save you up to €1,696 per year.
- Fast payback period: On average, you’ll recoup your investment within 3.5 years (under ideal conditions, even within 2.5 years).
- Backup function: In the event of a power outage, the Solarbank Max supplies AC power to your critical devices via its built-in power supply.
Frequently Asked Questions About Net Metering and Home Batteries
When are you still allowed to net meter?
You can participate in the net metering program through December 31, 2026. Until then, you may offset the electricity you feed back into the grid from your solar panels against your consumption on your annual bill. As of January 1, 2027, the net metering program will end permanently, after which you will only receive a feed-in tariff for any surplus electricity.
Can anyone install a plug-in home battery?
Yes, virtually any household can install a plug-in home battery like the Solarbank Max AC. Since the system runs off a standard outlet, the brand of your current solar panels or inverter doesn’t matter. Installation takes just a few minutes and requires no modifications to your meter box.
Can you apply for a subsidy for a home battery?
There is no national subsidy available for home batteries. However, you can still claim a refund of the 21% VAT from the Tax Authority, provided you meet the requirements.
What if I have a dynamic contract?
Then the Anker SOLIX Solarbank Max AC is the ideal solution. Its smart software links to your contract and fully charges the battery when electricity prices are low or even negative. When prices rise in the evening, you use your own inexpensive electricity.
What about safety and insurance?
The safety of the home battery is guaranteed by the use of LFP (lithium iron phosphate) cells. This is currently the safest battery technology available. These batteries do not pose a fire hazard and have a very long service life. Regarding insurance coverage for the battery: most home insurance policies cover a home battery that has been installed professionally (or according to plug-and-play guidelines). Always check with your own insurer to be sure.
Can’t find your question here? Make an appointment at our showroom for personalized advice or contact us directly.