By NEMA
ConnectDER is at the forefront of simplifying how homeowners and utilities connect to distributed energy resources (DERs) like solar panels, electric vehicle (EV) chargers, and energy storage systems. The company’s mission is to make clean energy more accessible and affordable for everyone, addressing several of the most critical needs in the global energy transition.
ConnectDER offers simple, safe, and effective solutions for connecting solar panels and EV chargers to a home. The company’s flagship products, Meter Socket Adapters (MSAs), can be installed in minutes by a qualified professional to support solar panels, EV chargers, and energy storage systems without the need for costly rewiring. These UL-listed devices allow homeowners to adopt clean energy technologies with minimal expense and effort, making the transition to renewable energy more accessible for all.
In addition, MSAs help installers save time, resources, and manpower on installations while homeowners save on overall installation costs.
The ConnectDER Advantage
As demand for clean energy solutions grows, the company has scaled up its production and is well-positioned to deliver MSAs to a growing market with manufacturing facilities in Pennsylvania and Mexico. In addition to Solar and EV Meter Socket Adapters, the company is set to launch an MSA to support stationary battery energy storage systems, further expanding its offerings and utility partnerships.
“Our goal is to drive the adoption of distributed energy resources,” says Dan Falcone, Vice President of Product at ConnectDER and former Exelon Utility leader. “To do that, utilities will have to see the value in adopting these technologies as best practices, aligning with their clean energy and electrification goals.”
Overcoming Barriers
As the grid becomes more interconnected, utility approval is essential for the widespread use of new energy systems. ConnectDER’s strategy often involves legislative and regulatory efforts to ensure utility participation.
For ConnectDER, utility approval is the most significant hurdle to widespread adoption. In states like California, Colorado, New Jersey, Illinois, and Arizona, ConnectDER has already achieved success, with utilities approving and integrating their products into energy systems.
ConnectDER’s goal is to encourage utilities to adopt their MSAs as a best practice, allowing for quicker, more cost-effective DER implementation. By collaborating with utilities, ConnectDER aims to help them achieve their, and their customers’, clean energy targets.
“Our products broaden access to solar and EV charging installations. With UL-listed devices that are installed into existing electrical meter sockets in minutes, ConnectDER is a proven, affordable product that reduces barriers to powering homes with clean energy,” says Falcone.
Industry Collaborations
ConnectDER is actively collaborating with not only utilities but industry leaders to encourage broader adoption of innovative clean energy technologies. The company is working with other NEMA members and utilities to develop best practices and an industry white paper that outlines a clear roadmap to assist utilities with approving meter socket adapters.
“NEMA has been instrumental in facilitating these conversations with utilities and helping to resolve state-specific challenges. In New Jersey, NEMA played a crucial role in breaking through regulatory gridlock, allowing ConnectDER’s products to be deployed more widely,” says Falcone.
The Path Forward
ConnectDER envisions a future where clean energy is not just a niche solution, but a mainstream and accessible option for everyone. As the world moves towards electrification, utilities must be proactive in adopting the technologies that will power the grid of the future. MSAs are already proving to be a game-changing solution, simplifying the connection of solar, EV charging, and energy storage systems while keeping costs low and installation easy.
Together with NEMA, ConnectDER looks forward to continuing to partner with utilities through their shared pursuit of scalable solutions that are deployable today to expedite a successful energy transition.
About the National Electrical Manufacturers Association
Founded in 1926, NEMA is an ANSI-accredited Standards Developing Organization made up of business leaders, electrical experts, engineers, scientists, and technicians. NEMA convenes a neutral forum for Members to discuss industry-wide concerns and objectives under a legal umbrella by trained NEMA Staff.