Question 1

What is a meter socket adapter (MSA) or meter collar?

Accepted Answer

A meter socket adapter (MSA), also called a meter collar, is a device that is installed between an electric meter socket and a utility billing meter. MSAs offer safe, NEC compliant means for interconnecting DERs such as solar, batteries, EV chargers, heat pumps, etc to the home’s electrical network. They can also provide energy data acquisition and transfer, load management, and whole home isolation from the grid. Collectively, they are the fastest and most effective way to safely interconnect the growing list of residential distributed energy resources (DERs).

Question 2

Who can install an MSA?

Accepted Answer

MSAs must be installed by a licensed electrician, qualified person, or utility personnel. Typically, there are two installation models – utility installed or contractor installed. While some utilities allow 3rd party contractors/installers to pull the utility meter and install the MSA themselves, others will either require utility personnel, to coordinate the installation or will only allow utility personnel to install the MSA.

Question 3

How do I use an MSA?

Accepted Answer

MSAs empower homes with the ability to safely connect distributed energy resources (DERs) such as solar PV systems, EV chargers (EVSE) and energy storage systems (BESS) at a fraction of the typical time and cost. A licensed electrician, qualified person, or utility personnel installs the MSA between the meter socket and the utility meter, quickly enabling a NEC compliant interconnection point for DERs. The installer simply connects the DER power and/or communication circuit to the MSA and can avoid costly and time-consuming wiring and service equipment replacement. Having been evaluated by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) to meet all relevant UL standards and electrical codes, an MSA provides installers with a trusted and valuable solution.

Question 4

Are ConnectDER MSAs safe?

Accepted Answer

ConnectDER MSAs are tested and listed by nationally recognized testing laboratories (NRTL), such as UL and ETL, ensuring compliance with UL standards and the National Electric Code (NEC). Each MSA has undergone rigorous internal testing for field applications, ensuring it is fully field-ready and reliable. Each MSA is listed to the latest version of UL 414, adheres to the latest version of the National Electric Code (NEC) and maintains compliance with FCC regulations and CA Prop 65.

Question 5

What standards are applicable to ConnectDER MSAs?

Accepted Answer

ConnectDER’s MSAs are tested and listed to UL 414 - Meter Sockets and Meter Socket Adapters (Including Supplements SA, SB, SC). In addition, the MSAs comply with physical specifications outlined in ANSI C12.7 and ANSI 12.10 as well as the requirements of a NEMA 3R enclosure.

Question 6

How much time and money can an MSA save me?

Accepted Answer

In cases where using a ConnectDER MSA can avoid a main panel upgrade, service replacement, and other complex electrical work like circuit relocations, installers have given us feedback that they're saving between $2,500-$5,000 per job. In some cases, it can be much more in avoided equipment, labor, and repair costs. Additionally, ConnectDER MSAs can be installed in 15-30 minutes, greatly decreasing the amount of labor and effort required, as well as the duration of a power outage during installation. Further cost savings are achieved by standardization of interconnection and/or islanding the home with a Microgrid Interconnect Device (MID) at the meter socket, plus reduction of labor time, reduction of material cost, and NEC compliance without additional equipment modifications.

Question 7

Are there any installation limitations in terms of location and distance?

Accepted Answer

No. The MSAs do not need to be co-located with DER equipment. Note that for the Solar and EV MSAs, the connected field wiring must still comply with all applicable local codes and requirements including, but not limited to conduit type and size, conductor ampacity, voltage drop, utility required disconnects, etc. Both the Solar and EV MSA also contain internal circuit breakers, which provide overcurrent protection for the connected branch circuit / field wiring. Connected communications wiring between IslandDER™ MSA and 3rd party Energy Storage Systems (ESS) must follow guidelines as outlined in all product manuals.

Question 8

Why would I use a ConnectDER MSA?

Accepted Answer

ConnectDER MSAs streamline the interconnection process for DERs, saving both time and money. Designed to simplify installation, they offer a standard, predictable process—eliminating any surprises. ConnectDER MSAs are tested and listed to the UL 414 safety standard by ETL, a nationally recognized testing laboratory, ensuring compliance with NEC standards. Additionally, MSAs provide a cost-effective alternative to traditional installation methods. Each MSA has undergone rigorous internal testing for field applications, ensuring it is fully field-ready and reliable. ConnectDER has the most DER interconnected MSAs installed nationally and has improved its product quality and feature set over five product generations based on over a decade of installer and utility feedback.

Question 9

What is IslandDER™ and what does it do?

Accepted Answer

IslandDER™ is a Meter Socket Adapter (MSA) that functions as a Microgrid Interconnect Device (MID). It safely disconnects a home from the grid during an outage, allowing residential energy systems like solar, batteries, and V2H/V2G to create a “microgrid” and provide backup power.

Question 10

How does IslandDER™ benefit installers?

Accepted Answer

IslandDER™ helps installers by providing a cost-effective way to enable whole-house and partial backup. It avoids the common issues of installing MIDs and whole-house consumption sensors (CTs) in meter-main combination panels (common in the Western and Southern U.S.), as well as negating complex electrical work often required with circuit relocation (“Hawaiian tie-ins”) or main panel upgrades. It also offers compatibility with many third-party battery systems, giving customers more equipment choices.

Question 11

What is a meter-main combo panel and why is IslandDER™ so valuable when used with them?

Accepted Answer

Meter-main combination panels are common in many parts of the U.S. and combine the meter socket and breaker box into a single enclosure. The enclosure is partitioned into two halves—the utility/metering side and the customer service panel side. This configuration makes the electrical connection between the meter and the main service disconnect inaccessible, creating a challenge for integrating energy storage components like MIDs and CTs. Traditionally, this required a costly service replacement or complex circuit relocation. The design of IslandDER™ and its location allow you to bypass these challenges entirely.

Question 12

Does IslandDER™ require a neutral wire between it and the meter socket?

Accepted Answer

No. Since IslandDER™ does not include a DER power connection, a neutral (grounded) conductor is not required. However, neutral lug options are provided on the back of the MSA that allow for a meter form conversion in some unique circumstances. Refer to the installation manual for more information.

Question 13

Does IslandDER™ support partial-home backup in addition to whole-house backup?

Accepted Answer

Yes. IslandDER™ can be configured for either whole-house or partial-home backup. When installed in the main meter socket with the utility billing meter, it provides whole-house backup, typically using third-party load control to manage power. For partial backup, it can be installed in a second customer-owned meter socket between the main panel and a backup loads panel. Refer to the installation manual for more information.

Question 14

How does IslandDER™ work with so many third-party battery energy storage systems?

Accepted Answer

IslandDER was specifically designed to be ESS agnostic and to work with as many partners as possible. This involved developing a stand-alone UL 414 listed product that could be utilized as part of a 3rd party UL 1741 / 3141 / 9741 ‘system.’ It also meant designing a thorough and proprietary communications protocol that any 3rd party could integrate to. Analog / digital signals carrying important real-time data (voltage, current, etc.) are transmitted from IslandDER to 3rd party ESS equipment via a communications cable. IslandDER transmits the data and is on standby to open or close the whole-house disconnect switch (MID) upon a command from the connected 3rd party equipment. The 3rd party equipment constantly digests the transmitted data, and when it detects a grid outage/restoration, it sends IslandDER a command to open or close the MID. Additional mechanisms are in place to ensure safe operation between devices under all operating conditions.

Question 15

Is IslandDER™ UL Listed?

Accepted Answer

Yes. IslandDER has successfully passed all testing and been listed by Intertek (ETL, a Nationally Recognized Testing Lab) as fully compliant to UL 414, including supplements SA, SB and SC. Note that compliance with UL 414 requires full adherence to the latest National Electric Code version—currently NEC 2023.

Question 16

What size electrical services and meter types are supported by IslandDER™?

Accepted Answer

IslandDER™ supports up to 200A, single phase electrical services. It is compatible with ring type and ringless type meter sockets and both ANSI Form 2S (120/240V) and 12S (120/208V) electronic (i.e. AMI) and older style solid state and electromechanical meters.

Question 17

Does IslandDER™ include any status indicators to inform the homeowner, installer, AHJ, or utility personnel if the product is working or if the MID is open or closed?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Built into one side of the pluggable Connection Module is an LED status panel, made up of 4 colored LEDs. The color and pattern of the LEDs indicate device status, the presence of utility power, whether the MID is open or closed and more. Refer to the installation manual for more details.

Question 18

Is the communications cable provided with IslandDER™, and what is the length and rating of the cable?

Accepted Answer

For the IslandDER™ Analog V1 model that utilizes analog signals, the communication cable comes in the box with IslandDER MSA, and it is factory wired to the pluggable Connection Module. The standard analog cable length is 6 ft. It is a flexible yet robust multi-conductor cable with an outer jacket rated for outdoor use and it comes with a pre-attached weathertight connector to mate with partner equipment. It is intended to be run in free air and not in conduit.  For the IslandDER™ Digital V1 model that utilizes a digital communication protocol (for use with the SolarEdge Nexis battery system only), no cable will be provided, as an off-the-shelf cable can be furnished and plugged into the Connection Module during installation (i.e., ethernet CAT5).

Question 19

How does IslandDER™ communicate with partner battery equipment and the homeowner?

Accepted Answer

IslandDER transmits real-time whole-house data (i.e., voltage, current) directly to partner equipment through a hard-wired connection. This ensures secure, reliable, and constant communication with the partner equipment. 3rd party ESS Partners may opt to share some of that data with the installer or homeowner via their existing app/DAS/APIs, etc.

Question 20

Is the small box connected to the top of IslandDER™ removable/reversible?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The pluggable Connection Module at the top of IslandDER™ is easily removable and reversible to allow for easy routing of the communications cabling to its connection point at partner equipment. The simple connection/removal capability of the connection module is a key (patent pending) feature of ConnectDER MSAs that allows utility personnel to inspect the meter socket without removing the entire MSA. It also offers the ability to remove the MSA without any specialized tools while wearing PPE.

Question 21

If meter socket adapters are not approved by the utility, can I install IslandDER™ on the load side of the utility meter or existing service disconnect?

Accepted Answer

Yes, IslandDER can also be installed in a second customer-owned meter socket. A meter jumper/cover must be installed in the second socket and installations must comply with the National Electric Code (NEC). Consult with the installation manual for a diagram and more details. Note that this configuration may not require utility approval/involvement.

Question 22

How is an IslandDER™ different from an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)?

Accepted Answer

Automatic Transfer Switches are primarily designed for use with fossil fuel-based backup generators. They are housed in large enclosures and must be physically installed in the wiring between the utility meter and main service panel, which can be difficult or impossible with meter-main combo panels. An ATS also typically supports "break-before-make" type connections, meaning that its switching time between grid and backup source can be many seconds to minutes, leaving blinking clocks, reset WiFi routers, and powered down computers, etc. IslandDER MSA and its integrated microgrid interconnect device (MID) is designed to work seamlessly with 3rd party battery-based energy storage equipment for a "blinkless" make-before-break connection, meaning the switching time is under 15 milliseconds and the lights won’t even flicker. As IslandDER is inherently located between the meter and main service disconnect by default, there are no issues with CT placement or ‘cutting in’ a transfer switch. IslandDER will also yield notable labor savings as installation time is reduced and other material costs for isolation are not needed.

Question 23

Is IslandDER™ compatible with fossil-fuel generators?

Accepted Answer

If 3rd party ESS partner systems are designed with an integrated backup generator connection, then IslandDER will work with this functionality indirectly. However, IslandDER is not currently compatible with a direct integration of a ‘break-before-make’ generator hookup.

Question 24

Does IslandDER™ support other DERs such as solar PV, EV charging, and vehicle-to-home (V2H)?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Energy storage systems that also incorporate other sources (i.e., solar PV) and loads (i.e., EV chargers) as part of their product offering are compatible with IslandDER. As there is no direct power connection to IslandDER, it is the responsibility of connected 3rd party equipment to utilize the real-time data provided by IslandDER and manage the multiple DER’s appropriately. Regarding V2H—using an EV’s large battery to supply backup power to the home—yes, IslandDER is compatible with this emerging use case, when integrated with an approved IslandDER partner.

Question 25

What is the largest battery system that is compatible with IslandDER™?

Accepted Answer

Since there is no DER power connection made directly to IslandDER, the maximum size of any connected ESS (kW/kWh) will not be limited by IslandDER. System size will be dependent on other factors, for example 3rd party ESS equipment specifications, electrical/building codes, home panel size / space, available mounting space, customer budget, etc.

Question 26

What size electrical services and meter types are supported?

Accepted Answer

Solar MSA supports up to 200A, single phase electrical services. It is compatible with ring type or ringless meter sockets and both ANSI Form 2S (120/240V) and 12S (120/208V) electronic (i.e. AMI) and older style electromechanical meters.

Question 27

Does the Solar MSA work with micro inverters, string inverters, and string inverters with optimizers?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Solar MSA works with grid-tied inverters, string inverters, and the combined output of microinverters.

Question 28

When I connect an inverter to Solar MSA, is the connection equivalent to a line-side tap?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is equivalent to a supply-side connection (line-side tap).

Question 29

Which PV inverters are compatible with Solar MSA?

Accepted Answer

Solar MSA is approved for use with grid-tied PV systems where the inverter meets UL 1741 requirements. It is a passive device - essentially an all-in-one, supply-side (of the main service disconnect) connection to the load side of the utility billing meter, with overcurrent protection. So, the make and model of the inverter doesn't matter, as long as it is for grid-tied use, has no batteries, and falls within the voltage and current ratings of the MSA.

Question 30

Which breaker values are available with Solar MSA?

Accepted Answer

Solar MSA is designed to accommodate breaker sizes ranging from 20A to 80A. However, the standard options available are 40A, 60A, and 80A.

Question 31

Does the breaker in the MSA need to match the breaker of the disconnect?

Accepted Answer

The Solar MSA circuit breaker must be rated to at least 125% of the inverter AC output current—the inverse of that means you can’t load a breaker to more than 80% of its rating.

Question 32

What is the largest PV system (maximum power output) that is compatible with the Solar MSA?

Accepted Answer

Solar MSA is compatible with PV systems up to a power output of 15.36kW AC on an 80A breaker.

Question 33

Does Solar MSA support net metering, allowing the homeowner to be credited by the utility for extra power produced?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the interconnection point is on the load side of the billing meter, but on the supply-side of the main service disconnect. Think of it as an all-in-one supply-side connection ("line-side tap"). A splice point with integrated disconnect and overcurrent protection (in the form of a circuit breaker), instead of a legacy junction box and fusible disconnect switch.

Question 34

Does Solar MSA support net metering, allowing the homeowner to be credited by the utility for extra power produced?

Accepted Answer

Solar MSA supports net metering. Therefore, if the electrical service uses less electricity than the PV system is producing, it will flow back through the billing meter and out to the grid.

Question 35

Does Solar MSA support solar + battery?

Accepted Answer

Solar MSA is designed to be used for grid-tied solar PV with no batteries (BESS). Our IslandDER™ MSA is a solution that is designed for BESS applications.

Question 36

Is Solar MSA on the load side of the meter?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the Solar MSA connection is on the load side of the meter (thus enabling net metering).

Question 37

Is this equivalent to a backfeed breaker? Do I need to worry about any wire sizes

Accepted Answer

It’s equivalent to a supply-side connection, all-in-one within Solar MSA. You can select the internal breaker size as minimum 125% of the inverter AC current output (loading the breaker to no more than 80% of its ampere rating). All conductors internal to the Solar MSA are certified to support largest possible solar output allowable (64A with use of an 80A branch breaker).

Question 38

What size electrical services and meter types are supported?

Accepted Answer

EV MSA supports up to 125A, single phase electrical services. It is compatible with ring type or ringless meter sockets and both ANSI Form 2S (120/240V) and 12S (120/208V) electronic (i.e. AMI) and older style electromechanical meters.

Question 39

Does EV MSA work with any service panel rating?

Accepted Answer

The EV MSA is compatible with meter sockets rated up to 200 amps maximum, but is intended for use with 100 or 125-amp services. The whole-house capacity of a 200 amp service will be reduced to 100 or 125 amps with the EV MSA.

Question 40

What meter sockets are supported by EV MSA?

Accepted Answer

EV MSA works with both ring-type and ringless meter sockets as well as horn and bypass sockets.

Question 41

Does the EV MSA contain GFCI protection?

Accepted Answer

The EV MSA does not contain ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection and must be hardwired only (not cord-and-plug-connected) to the EVSE.

Question 42

Is a local disconnect needed with the EV MSA?

Accepted Answer

A local disconnect is not required in most jurisdictions. The service disconnect is incorporated into the EV MSA

Question 43

Does the EV MSA power off the DER branch circuit when the load is over 80% of one phase or both?

Accepted Answer

The EV MSA will disconnect the EVSE if either phase, or both phases, exceed the current maximum for the given time.

Question 44

Which breaker values are available with EV MSA?

Accepted Answer

EV MSA has a whole-house circuit breaker with sizes of 100A or 125A. For the EV branch circuit breaker, there is a 40A and 60A version.

Question 45

How should EVSE installers size the whole-house breaker disconnect?

Accepted Answer

The EV MSA whole-house breaker should match the existing main breaker in the home main circuit panel.

Question 46

Can the EV MSA support solar PV?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the EV MSA can support solar PV but for solar only applications, we recommend use of the Solar MSA. Additionally, installation of solar PV requires utility interconnection approval.

Question 47

Can the EV MSA support solar PV and battery energy storage systems (BESS) for retail arbitrage?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the EV MSA can support solar PV and BESS systems. However, PV and storage may be used only as an interactive, grid-tied system. It cannot be used for backup power to the premises via the EV MSA since it does not isolate the home from the grid. This application requires limits on some BESS functions, such as “storm surge”. Requires utility interconnection approval.

Question 48

What other types of loads can be used with the EV MSA?

Accepted Answer

EV MSA was designed primarily to support electric vehicle charging. In periods of high home power consumption, the load is temporarily shed, or turned off, so the homeowner should be comfortable without use of that load during that period. For other applications, please contact support@connectder.com for more information.

Question 49

Does EV MSA support bidirectional EVSE?

Accepted Answer

The EV MSA V1.0 does support bidirectional EVSE. Like solar PV, use of bidirectional EVSE would require utility interconnection approval. Bidirectional EVSE may be used only as an interactive, grid-tied system (vehicle-to-grid or V2G). It cannot be used for backup power to the premises via the EV MSA since it does not isolate the home from the grid.

Question 50

What Electric Vehicle Service Equipment (EVSE) manufacturers does the EV MSA work with?

Accepted Answer

EV MSA works with any level 2 EVSE that meets the common requirement of: Configurable to 32 amps maximum continuous current draw. Hard-wired from EV MSA. Use of pluggable EVSE is prohibited.

Question 51

What is the maximum EV charger size that works with EV MSA?

Accepted Answer

EV MSA can support up to a 48A EV charge. EV MSA is available with a 40 or 60-amp EV branch circuit breaker for its external connection. A 40-amp circuit breaker may be loaded to 32 amps maximum, continuous. Note: While data suggests this configuration should work with minimal EVSE load interruption for most users, it is recommended that EV MSA be used with EVSE that supports adjustment to 40A or 32A in case of inconvenient frequent EVSE load shedding at 48A.

Question 52

What happens if EV MSA temporarily de-energizes the EVSE?

Accepted Answer

If EV MSA senses that there is too much power being consumed for the rated service size, it will disconnect the EVSE/DER branch circuit. Once home power consumption is reduced to a safe threshold for 15 minutes, EV MSA will automatically reconnect the EVSE/DER branch circuit and allow normal operation. Please consult the EVSE manufacturer’s documentation to determine its capability to provide indication (e.g., via an app or other visual or audible signal) that power has been suspended and/or restored.

Question 53

What exactly does the EV MSA do?

Accepted Answer

The EV MSA combines multiple critical functionalities into one universally compatible device that makes it easier for electricians, and more affordable for homeowners, to hardwire an EV charger into the home, specifically for homes with 100A or 125A service. Components like a built-in circuit breaker, smart load sensing, automatic disconnect, and consumption monitoring minimize the amount of work an electrician must do, and in turn minimize the cost to homeowners. By taking the installation away from the main panel and to the existing utility meter on the exterior of your house, the EV MSA provides a plug-and-play connection point for the EV charger without an expensive main panel replacement or service upgrade. It also keeps the install outside your home, by avoiding the need to cut through drywall or ceiling to get to your main panel (more surprise costs!)

Question 54

Can I install the EV MSA myself?

Accepted Answer

No. The EV MSA should only be installed by utility metering technicians or electricians licensed to work in the meter socket. The EV MSA is not a “DIY” device, but it does save homeowners significant time and cost on their EV charger installs!

Question 55

Where on my home does the EV MSA get installed?

Accepted Answer

The EV MSA, and meter socket adapters in general, are installed between the meter socket and the utility billing meter on the exterior of a home. A licensed professional simply removes the utility billing meter, installs the EV MSA, then puts the utility meter back on. It only takes 15-30 minutes and does not damage your home in any way.

Question 56

Can my EV charger still be installed in my garage, or does it have to be outside next to the meter?

Accepted Answer

Your EV charger can be installed in your garage. The EV MSA installs into your existing meter socket, at the utility meter box, which is often outside your home. However, your EV charger can be installed wherever you wish—the electrician would simply run wiring to hardwire your EV charger to the EV MSA.

Question 57

Does the EV MSA work on homes with 100A or 125A electric service?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We engineered the EV MSA specifically for 100A and 125A homes, which are common service amperages for homes built before 1980 and homes with smaller square footage. The EV MSA negates the need to replace your manel panel or upgrade your electrical service just to install an EV charger, saving you thousands of dollars. The EV MSA was not engineered for homes with 200A or higher electrical service, since those homes likely do not need additional panel or service work to install an EV charger.

Question 58

What’s the typical cost to upgrade a home’s electric panel or full electrical service?

Accepted Answer

Rewiring America estimates it can range from $5,000 to a whopping $25,000. It is highly variable based on your home’s existing electrical setup, the location of your meter box and panel, whether you need a main panel replacement or a full upgrade, and many other factors.

Question 59

How does the EV MSA save me money on an EV charger installation?

Accepted Answer

The EV MSA negates the need for a main panel replacement or electric service upgrade, which can range from $5,000 to $25,000 according to Rewiring America. It also makes for an easier install: For example, if your main panel is located in a finished basement and far from where you want your EV charger to be—the electrician would need to run complex wiring and likely cut through drywall or the ceiling inside your home, which adds time and cost, and may be intrusive to your life. The EV MSA avoids this by this by taking the installation away from the main panel and to the existing utility meter box on the exterior of your house.

Question 60

Does the EV MSA work with any EV charger brand?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the EV MSA will work with any brand of Level 2 EV charger rated up to 48A continuous. The EV chargers must 1) have a programmable max charge rate and 2) be hard-wired from the EV MSA; use of pluggable EV chargers is prohibited.

Question 61

Does the EV MSA degrade the performance or speed of my EV charger?

Accepted Answer

Nope! The EV MSA can support Level 2, 48A EV chargers without compromising performance.

Question 62

How does the EV MSA manage the overall electrical load of my house if I’m running multiple appliances at once and trying to charge my car?

Accepted Answer

The EV MSA monitors the whole-house load and uses control software to temporarily suspend power to the EV charging equipment when the whole-house current consumption reaches 80% or more of the service rating. For example, 80% of a 100-amp home is 80 amps. If your home relies heavily on electrical appliances, your EV may temporarily stop charging during times of peak power consumption, but the EV MSA automatically reconnects the charging equipment once consumption is lowered, and charging resumes.

Question 63

Does the EV MSA limit my home’s total power capacity, since I am adding an EV charger without upgrading my electric service?

Accepted Answer

Nope. If you have a 100A or 125A electric service, the EV MSA does not lessen your home’s overall power capacity. On the contrary, the EV MSA’s main benefit is that it allows you to install an energy-hungry EV charger without upgrading your service amps. The EV MSA has built-in load management and consumption optimization technology, which ensures you never max out your home’s capacity.

Question 64

Does the EV MSA change how I get billed for electricity from my utility company?

Accepted Answer

Nope. Nothing changes with how you’re billed for electricity from your utility company.

Frequently Asked Questions

Meter Socket Adapter FAQs

IslandDER™ FAQs

Solar MSA FAQs

EV MSA FAQs

EV Owner FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Meter Socket Adapter FAQs

What is a meter socket adapter (MSA) or meter collar?

Who can install an MSA?

How do I use an MSA?

Are ConnectDER MSAs safe?

What standards are applicable to ConnectDER MSAs?

How much time and money can an MSA save me?

Are there any installation limitations in terms of location and distance?

Why would I use a ConnectDER MSA?

IslandDER™ FAQs

What is IslandDER™ and what does it do?

How does IslandDER™ benefit installers?

What is a meter-main combo panel and why is IslandDER™ so valuable when used with them?

Does IslandDER™ require a neutral wire between it and the meter socket?

Does IslandDER™ support partial-home backup in addition to whole-house backup?

How does IslandDER™ work with so many third-party battery energy storage systems?

Is IslandDER™ UL Listed?

What size electrical services and meter types are supported by IslandDER™?

Does IslandDER™ include any status indicators to inform the homeowner, installer, AHJ, or utility personnel if the product is working or if the MID is open or closed?

Is the communications cable provided with IslandDER™, and what is the length and rating of the cable?

How does IslandDER™ communicate with partner battery equipment and the homeowner?

Is the small box connected to the top of IslandDER™ removable/reversible?

If meter socket adapters are not approved by the utility, can I install IslandDER™ on the load side of the utility meter or existing service disconnect?

How is an IslandDER™ different from an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS)?

Is IslandDER™ compatible with fossil-fuel generators?

Does IslandDER™ support other DERs such as solar PV, EV charging, and vehicle-to-home (V2H)?

What is the largest battery system that is compatible with IslandDER™?

Solar MSA FAQs

What size electrical services and meter types are supported?

Does the Solar MSA work with micro inverters, string inverters, and string inverters with optimizers?

When I connect an inverter to Solar MSA, is the connection equivalent to a line-side tap?

Which PV inverters are compatible with Solar MSA?

Which breaker values are available with Solar MSA?

Does the breaker in the MSA need to match the breaker of the disconnect?

What is the largest PV system (maximum power output) that is compatible with the Solar MSA?

Does Solar MSA support net metering, allowing the homeowner to be credited by the utility for extra power produced?

Does Solar MSA support net metering, allowing the homeowner to be credited by the utility for extra power produced?

Does Solar MSA support solar + battery?

Is Solar MSA on the load side of the meter?

Is this equivalent to a backfeed breaker? Do I need to worry about any wire sizes

EV MSA FAQs

What size electrical services and meter types are supported?

Does EV MSA work with any service panel rating?

What meter sockets are supported by EV MSA?

Does the EV MSA contain GFCI protection?

Is a local disconnect needed with the EV MSA?

Does the EV MSA power off the DER branch circuit when the load is over 80% of one phase or both?

Which breaker values are available with EV MSA?

How should EVSE installers size the whole-house breaker disconnect?

Can the EV MSA support solar PV?

Can the EV MSA support solar PV and battery energy storage systems (BESS) for retail arbitrage?

What other types of loads can be used with the EV MSA?

Does EV MSA support bidirectional EVSE?

What Electric Vehicle Service Equipment (EVSE) manufacturers does the EV MSA work with?

What is the maximum EV charger size that works with EV MSA?

What happens if EV MSA temporarily de-energizes the EVSE?

EV Owner FAQs

What exactly does the EV MSA do?

Can I install the EV MSA myself?

Where on my home does the EV MSA get installed?

Can my EV charger still be installed in my garage, or does it have to be outside next to the meter?

Does the EV MSA work on homes with 100A or 125A electric service?

What’s the typical cost to upgrade a home’s electric panel or full electrical service?

How does the EV MSA save me money on an EV charger installation?

Does the EV MSA work with any EV charger brand?

Does the EV MSA degrade the performance or speed of my EV charger?

How does the EV MSA manage the overall electrical load of my house if I’m running multiple appliances at once and trying to charge my car?

Does the EV MSA limit my home’s total power capacity, since I am adding an EV charger without upgrading my electric service?

Does the EV MSA change how I get billed for electricity from my utility company?

How do I know the EV MSA is safe?

How do I find an electrician who can install my EV charger using ConnectDER’s EV MSA?