Meters for distributed energy resource devices

Abstract

The electric meter includes a housing, a first set of connection paths, and a second set of connection paths. The first set of connection paths couple to a meter socket and are electrically coupled to a first electrical connection path between a first phase of the electric power distribution source, the distributed energy resource device, and the load. A first electrical metering component of the first electrical connection path is disposed within a first segment of the housing. The second set of connection paths couple to the meter socket and are electrically coupled to a second electrical connection path between a second phase of the electric power distribution source, the distributed energy resource device, and the load. A second electrical metering component of the second electrical connection path is disposed within a second segment of the housing that is non-overlapping with the first segment of the housing.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] Technical Field The present disclosure relates generally to electric meters and, more particularly, to electric meters for use with distributed energy resource devices. [Background technology]

[0002] background Distributed energy resource (DER) devices, e.g., solar panels, wind turbines, electric vehicle batteries, etc., are typically wired to the grid by connecting to a circuit breaker in an electrical panel on the customer's premises. If metering of the DER devices is required, a separate meter is typically mounted on the customer's wall for this purpose. One or more disconnect switches are also typically mounted on the customer's wall.

[0003] The use of DER devices by energy consumers, including residential consumers, is increasing. Currently, when a consumer wants to connect a DER device on their premises, the utility and the electrician who installs the DER device must coordinate and be on the premises at the same time. The utility disconnects the power at the meter socket. After disconnecting the power, the electrician connects the DER device "behind the meter." Depending on the installation location, a separate meter may be required for the DER device. After the DER device is installed, the utility reconnects the power to the meter socket. A system is desired to connect DER devices to existing electric service without coordination between the utility and the electrician. Summary of the Invention

[0004] A system for interfacing distributed energy resource devices with distributed energy resource meters is provided.

[0005] According to various aspects of the disclosure, an electric meter includes a housing, a first set of connection paths, and a second set of connection paths. The first set of connection paths couple to a meter socket and are electrically coupled to a first electrical connection path between a first phase of the distributed power source, the distributed energy resource device, and the load. A first electrical metering component of the first electrical connection path is disposed within a first segment of the housing. The second set of connection paths couple to the meter socket and are electrically coupled to a second electrical connection path between a second phase of the distributed power source, the distributed energy resource device, and the load. A second electrical metering component of the second electrical connection path is disposed within a second segment of the housing that is non-overlapping with the first segment of the housing.

[0006] In another embodiment, a system includes an electric meter socket and an electric meter mating with the electric meter socket. The electric meter includes a housing, a first set of connection paths, and a second set of connection paths. The first set of connection paths couple to the meter socket and are electrically coupled to a first electrical connection path between a first phase of the distributed power source, the distributed energy resource device, and the load. A first electrical metering component of the first electrical connection path is disposed within a first segment of the housing. The second set of connection paths couple to the meter socket and are electrically coupled to a second electrical connection path between a second phase of the distributed power source, the distributed energy resource device, and the load. A second electrical metering component of the second electrical connection path is disposed within a second segment of the housing non-overlapping with the first segment of the housing.

[0007] In another embodiment, a system for metering a distributed energy resource device includes an electric meter and an electric meter socket electrically coupled to the electric meter. The electric meter includes a housing, a first set of connection paths, and a second set of connection paths. The first set of connection paths couple to the meter socket and are electrically coupled to a first electrical connection path between a first phase of the electric power distribution source, the distributed energy resource device, and the load. A first electrical metering component of the first electrical connection path is disposed within a first segment of the housing. The second set of connection paths couple to the meter socket and are electrically coupled to a second electrical connection path between a second phase of the electric power distribution source, the distributed energy resource device, and the load. A second electrical metering component of the second electrical connection path is disposed within a second segment of the housing non-overlapping with the first segment of the housing. The electric meter socket includes a first line connection path and a second line connection path within the electric meter socket that form a first line electrical connection and a second line electrical connection between the electric meter and line voltage wiring of the electric power distribution source. The electric meter socket also includes a first distributed energy resource connection path and a second distributed energy resource connection path within the electric meter socket that form a first distributed energy resource electrical connection and a second distributed energy resource electrical connection between the electric meter and distributed energy resource voltage wiring of the distributed energy resource device. The electric meter socket also includes a first load connection path and a second load connection path within the electric meter socket that form a first load electrical connection and a second load electrical connection between the electric meter and the load. The electric meter socket also includes at least one neutral connection path within the electric meter socket that forms a neutral electrical connection between the electric meter and the distribution power source, the distributed energy resource device, and a neutral wiring of the load.

[0008] These exemplary aspects and features are mentioned not to limit or define the presently described subject matter, but to provide examples to aid in understanding the concepts described herein. Other aspects, advantages, and features of the presently described subject matter will become apparent after consideration of the entirety of the present application. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Aspects and features of various embodiments will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the invention, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG.

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical connection between a distributed energy resource (DER) meter and a meter socket according to various aspects of the disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a front view of an example of a 15-terminal meter socket according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] 3 is a perspective view of terminals of the 15-terminal meter socket of FIG. 2 according to various aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram of a possible alternative configuration for the neutral terminal of the meter socket of FIG. 2 in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is an example of a DER meter installed in the meter socket of FIG. 2 according to various aspects of the disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a blade portion of a DER meter according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the DER meter of FIG. 6 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the DER meter of FIG. 6 with the cover and printed circuit board assembly removed, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an example of a side view of the DER meter of FIG. 8 with the switch cover removed, according to various embodiments of the disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an example of a perspective view of the DER meter of FIG. 9 according to various embodiments of the disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an example of a side view of the DER meter of FIG. 6 with the printed circuit board assembly and cover removed, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 12]FIG. 12 is an example of a perspective view of the DER meter of FIG. 11 according to various aspects of the disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is an example of a perspective view of the DER meter of FIG. 6 according to various embodiments of the disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is an example perspective view of a blade of the DER meter of FIG. 1 according to various aspects of the disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Although specific examples are described herein, these examples are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of protection. The devices and systems described herein can be embodied in various other forms. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions and changes in the form of the exemplary methods and systems described herein can be made without departing from the scope of protection.

[0012] A system is provided for connecting distributed energy resource (DER) devices with a metering device. Currently, there is no standard system for connecting DER devices to the grid. Existing systems often rely on coordination between the electric utility company that owns the utility metering device and the electrical contractor that installs the DER device. For example, the electric utility company may be required to remove the utility metering device while the electrical contractor is on the premises to install the DER device. After the DER device is installed, the electric utility company must reinstall the utility metering device.

[0013] This document describes a DER meter that provides a mechanism for metering power originating from both DER devices and utility companies. The DER meter can mate with a DER-enabled meter socket at a customer premises. For purposes of this disclosure, a DER device is defined as any resource on the distribution system (i.e., grid) that produces or stores power that can be provided to the distribution system, or any large load that can be controlled to manage the overall peak load of the distribution system. For example, a DER device may be a residential solar installation or a residential wind turbine installation, with or without local battery storage.

[0014] 1 is a block diagram 100 illustrating an electrical connection between a distributed energy resource (DER) meter 102 and a meter socket 104 according to various aspects of the disclosure. The DER meter 102 and meter socket 104 are located at a customer premises (e.g., a residential building, a commercial building, etc.). The DER meter 102 measures and controls electricity provided to the customer premises via an electrical distribution system (i.e., grid 108) and electricity generated or otherwise stored at the customer premises via DER devices (i.e., DER devices 116). Thus, the DER meter 102 includes sufficient connection points to receive electricity provided from the grid 108, receive electricity provided from the DER devices 116, and provide electricity to an electric service 110.

[0015] The DER meter 102 may be combined with a communications module to allow the DER meter 102 to communicate with other meters and the power company. As shown in FIG. 1, power from the grid 108 (i.e., the power distribution system) is provided to the meter socket 104 via electrical wires L1 (line) and L2 (line). The electrical wires L1 (line) and L2 (line) may provide two phases of power for the grid 108. A neutral wire N, sometimes referred to as ground, is connected between the grid 108, the electrical service 110, and the DER device 116, for example, at an electrical service panel at a residential or commercial customer premises.

[0016] The electrical service or load 110 is also connected to the meter socket 104 via corresponding electrical wiring L1 (load) and L2 (load). The meter socket 104 may be a socket, such as a form 14S, 15S, or 16S meter socket, that includes an electrical connector to provide an electrical connection to a conventional meter when the conventional meter is plugged into the meter socket 104. Other meter socket forms for the meter socket 104 are also contemplated. An electrical connection between the grid 108 and the electrical service 110 is made through the DER meter 102 when the DER meter 102 is plugged into the meter socket 104. Within the DER meter 102, the voltage and current delivered from the grid 108 to the electrical service 110 are measured, or metered, by a metering device. The metering device may be, for example, a voltage transducer 112 and a current transducer 114 that measure electrical characteristics of the voltage and current waveforms, respectively. The power delivered to the electrical service 110 may be calculated based on the voltage and current measurements.

[0017] Outgoing wiring from the DER device 116 may also be connected at a connection point within the meter socket 104. A neutral wiring N connection 118 may be formed at a connection point within the meter socket 104 to connect neutral wiring from the grid 108, the DER device 116, the electric service 110, and the DER meter 102. In one or more examples, the connection point of the DER device 116 may be located on a side 120 of the meter socket 104. For example, the side 120 of the meter socket 104 may be any side of the meter socket 104 that does not interface with the DER meter 102 (e.g., a side that is exposed while the meter socket 104 is coupled to the DER meter 102). Locating the connection point on the side 120 may provide an easily accessible location for the DER device 116 to connect with the meter socket 104.

[0018] A connection point in the meter socket 104 may provide an electrical connection between the meter socket 104 and the DER meter 102. For example, a connection point of lines L1(line) and L2(line) at the meter socket 104 from the grid 108 may electrically connect the lines L1(line) and L2(line) from the grid 108 to the DER meter 102. Similarly, lines L1 and L2 from the DER device 116 and lines L1(load) and L2(load) to the electric service 110 may be electrically connected to the DER meter 102 through a connection point in the meter socket 104. Similar to lines L1(line) and L2(line) from the grid 108, the lines L1 and L2 from the DER device 116 may provide voltages with different electrical phases. Additionally, the connection point of the neutral wire N may also have an electrical connection at a corresponding receptacle of the meter socket 104.

[0019] Connection points (e.g., receptacles) included in meter socket 104 can accommodate insertion of connection components (e.g., blade connectors) on DER meter 102 to form electrical connections between meter socket 104 and DER meter 102. Other electrical couplings are also contemplated between meter socket 104, DER device 116, and DER meter 102. When connection components of DER meter 102 are inserted into receptacles in meter socket 104, electrical connections may be formed between DER meter 102 and lines L1 (line) and L2 (line) from grid 108, between DER meter 102 and lines L1 and L2 from DER device 116, and between DER meter 102 and lines L1 (load) and L2 (load) to electric service 110. Note that the connection points and connection components (e.g., receptacles and blade connectors) may be generally referred to as mating connectors.

[0020] When the connection components of the DER meter 102 are inserted into the receptacles of the meter socket 104 and the connection components of the DER device 116, grid 108, and electric service 110 are inserted into the receptacles of the meter socket 104, an electrical connection may be made between the neutral wiring N and the DER meter 102. The electrical connection between the neutral wiring N and the DER meter 102 may provide an electrical reference point to enable L1 (line) → neutral and L2 (line) → neutral voltage measurements with the voltage transducer 112 in the DER meter 102. The ability to perform these voltage measurements with the DER meter 102 may enable more advanced and higher fidelity metering than is possible with standard 2S meter configurations, for example, that only have L1 (line) and L2 (line) connections available (i.e., no neutral N connection) and therefore can only measure line-to-line voltages (i.e., L1 (line) to L2 (line)). DER meter 102 can also perform current measurements on the L1 (line) and L2 (line) lines from grid 108 using current transducers 114a and 114b, on electric service 110 using current transducers 114c and 114d, and on DER device 116 using current transducers 114d and 114e. The ability to perform current measurements in DER meter 102 as well as L1 (line)->neutral and L2 (line)->neutral voltage measurements may enable the implementation of various applications, such as load breakdown algorithms.

[0021] In one example, the current transducers 114c and 114d may not be included in the DER meter 102. In such an example, the current to the electric service 110 (e.g., a load) may be measured using an algebraic sum of the currents from the grid 108 and the DER device 116. The following equation may be used:

[0022]

number

[0023]

number

[0024] Lines L1 (LINE) and L2 (LINE) from the grid 108 may provide line voltages with different electrical phases. The different electrical phases may be generated by a local distribution transformer (e.g., a pole-mounted transformer located near the meter) or may be different electrical phases generated at a substation. Similarly, lines L1 and L2 from the DER device 116 may provide line voltages with different electrical phases. The electrical phases of the line voltages on lines L1 and L2 provided from the DER device 116 may be synchronized with the electrical phases of the line voltages on lines L1 (LINE) and L2 (LINE) provided from the grid 108.

[0025] Embodiments of meter sockets and meters according to the present disclosure may include more or fewer connection points or receptacles corresponding to different phases of the line voltage. For example, if only one line voltage phase is connected (e.g., phase A), fewer connection points and receptacles may be included in the meter socket because connection points for additional phases (e.g., phases B and C) are not needed. Similarly, if three line voltage phases are connected (e.g., phases A, B, and C), additional connection points and receptacles may be included in the meter socket.

[0026] In one embodiment, a disconnect switch 122 is included in the DER meter 102. In such an example, the disconnect switch 122 may remain open when the voltage transducers 112a and 112b do not detect a voltage from the grid 108. Additionally, the disconnect switch may be used as a mechanism to synchronize the voltage phase from the DER device 116 with the grid 108. For example, the voltage transducers 112c and 112d may measure the voltage supplied by the DER device 116, and the voltage transducers 112a and 112b may measure the voltage supplied by the grid 108 while the disconnect switch 122 is open. When synchronization between the DER device 116 and the grid 108 is reached during a synchronized operation, the disconnect switch 122 may close. Additionally, the disconnect switch 122 may isolate the DER meter 102 from the L1 (line) and L2 (line) connections to the grid 108. The ability to disconnect the DER meter 102 from the grid 108 may enable “islanding,” where the DER meter 102 is disconnected from the grid 108 and powers the electric service 110 only from the DER device 116 .

[0027] The DER meter 102 may also include an integrated, controllable electrical disconnect switch 124 that disconnects or protects the DER device 116. In some examples, a disconnect switch 125 between the DER device 116 and the socket 104 may also be included to disconnect or protect the DER device 116. Additionally, a circuit breaker 126 may be located between the DER device 116 and the socket 104 or within the DER meter 102. In one example, a single device may perform the functions of both a circuit breaker and a separate electrical disconnect device to disconnect lines L1 and L2 of the DER device 116 from the DER meter 102. In one example, the circuit breaker 126 may disconnect the DER device 116 from the DER meter 102 upon the occurrence of an electrical fault. The circuit breaker 126 may be integrated into the DER meter 102. Additionally, the circuit breaker 126 may be controlled locally or remotely.

[0028] The controllable electrical disconnect switch 124 may be controlled by a processor (not shown) and a communication module (not shown) of the DER meter 102. The controllable electrical disconnect switch 124 may automatically operate to disconnect the DER device 116 from the grid 108, for example, when a high load is detected at the voltage transducers 112e and 112f or when the electric service or load 110 is disconnected from the meter. In some examples, the controllable electrical disconnect switch 124 can automatically operate to disconnect the DER device 116 from the grid 108 based on a command received from the DER meter 102 or another device.

[0029] The controllable electrical disconnect switch 124 may connect or disconnect the DER device 116 to the DER meter 102. In connecting the DER device 116 to the DER meter 102, the DER meter 102 may measure the generation or consumption of the DER device 116 as a separate value from the energy consumed or sent back to the distribution system (i.e., the grid 108), thereby providing billable data. The billable data (i.e., consumption from the grid 108 or production sent back to the grid 108) may be metered in the power meter using “net metering” or similar methods. Additionally, the controllable electrical disconnect switch 124 may connect or disconnect the DER device 116 from the grid 108 based on the power production or consumption requirements of the grid 108 and the DER device 116. Additionally, the disconnect switch 124 may be used to electrically disconnect the DER device 116 from the DER meter 102 so that a technician can repair the DER meter 102, install the DER meter 102, or replace the DER meter 102.

[0030] In one example, the DER disconnect switch (i.e., the controllable electrical disconnect switch 124) and the line disconnect switch (i.e., the disconnect switch 122) may be implemented with a four-position switch. The four-position switch may allow for the following: 1. The connection of the grid 108, DER devices 116, and electric services (loads) 110; 2. Grid 108 and electric service 110 connection with DER device 116 disconnected; 3. Connecting electric service 110 and DER devices 116 with the grid 108 disconnected; 4. Disconnection of the grid 108, DER devices 116 and electric service 110. Advantages of using a four-position switch instead of two two-position switches include reducing the cost and size of the components required to provide the switching function.

[0031] The DER meter 102 may measure and control power delivered to the electric service 110 via the grid 108, the DER device 116, or both. The DER meter 102 may include a communications module (not shown) and a processor (not shown). The processor may be a microprocessor, although embodiments according to the present disclosure are not limited to such embodiments. For example, the processor may be a microprocessor, a microcomputer, a computer, a microcontroller, a programmable controller, or other programmable device. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other variations may be implemented without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0032] The communications module may communicate via RF, cellular, PLC, or any other suitable communications technology. The communications module may receive communications over the network, including instructions for controlling the controllable electrical disconnect switch 124. The communications module may transmit information related to the operation of the meter and measurements performed by the measurement device in the meter to other devices or a central system on the network. The communications module may also provide communications between the DER meter 102 and the DER device 116.

[0033] In accordance with various aspects of the disclosure, if the DER device 116 includes some form of generator (e.g., solar or wind) or storage device, the DER meter 102 can use information about the distribution system. The information may include real-time electricity prices or other information to make decisions and control the DER device 116. For example, the DER meter 102 may determine whether the DER device 116 should send energy (e.g., from solar or battery storage, where battery storage may include batteries in an electric vehicle or the like) to the grid 108, whether the DER device 116 should consume energy from the grid 108 (e.g., to charge storage or allow large loads such as water heaters, pool pumps, etc. to operate), whether the DER device 116 should disconnect from the grid 108 (e.g., not consume energy from the grid 108 or not send energy to the grid 108), or any combination thereof. An appropriate control action may be initiated by the DER meter 102 based on the determination. Those skilled in the art or of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the above examples of decision and control actions are not exhaustive and that other decision and control actions may be performed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 2 is a front view of an example of a 15-terminal meter socket 200 according to various aspects of the disclosure. The illustrated meter socket 200 is a 16S meter socket. The meter socket 104 as depicted in FIG. 1 may be a 15-terminal meter socket 200. In an embodiment, the 15-terminal meter socket 200 may be arranged to accommodate multiple meter forms. For example, terminals 202 and 204 may be lines for L1 (line) and L2 (line) as described in FIG. 1 and are electrically coupled to the grid 108. Terminals 206 and 208 may be lines for L1 (load) and L2 (load) as described in FIG. 1 and are electrically coupled to the electric service 110. Terminals 210 and 212 may be lines for L1 (DER) and L2 (DER) as described in FIG. 1 and are electrically coupled to the DER device 116. In an embodiment, terminal 214 may be electrically coupled to the neutral wire N as described in FIG. 1.

[0035] 3 is a diagram 300 of the terminals 202-214 of a 15-terminal meter socket 200 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. Diagram 300 depicts how the terminals 202-214 of the meter socket 200 (e.g., a 16S meter socket) may be electrically coupled to the line (i.e., grid 108), the load (i.e., electric service 110), the neutral wire N, and, once installed, the DER device 116.

[0036] 4 is a diagram 400 of possible alternative configurations for the neutral terminal 214 of the meter socket 200, according to various aspects of the disclosure. Other arrangements are possible, including arrangements that change which terminals 202-214 are used for the line, load, neutral wiring N, and DER device 116. By providing alternative arrangements of the neutral wiring N in the meter socket 200 of FIGS. 3 and 4, the meter socket 200 may not be compatible with metering devices having incompatible arrangements of connection blades. That is, a metering device such as a DER meter 102 would need to be appropriately keyed to one of the meter sockets 200 of FIGS. 3 or 4 or the other arrangement of the meter socket 200.

[0037] 5 is an example of a DER meter 102 installed in a DER-enabled meter socket 200 according to various aspects of the disclosure. In one example, the meter socket 200 includes an optional DER connector 502 on a side 120 of the meter socket 200 according to various aspects of the disclosure. The DER connector 502 may be added to the meter socket 200 to facilitate quick and efficient connection of a DER device 116. The DER connector 502 may be integrated into the meter socket 200 or may be an optional additional component.

[0038] To install a DER device 116 on a premises with existing service, an electrical contractor connects the DER device 116 to a DER connector 502, and the utility replaces the conventional meter with the DER meter 102. The DER meter 102 is also referred to herein as a multi-port meter. The DER connector 502 and meter socket 200 allow these steps to occur independently. The electrical contractor and the utility do not need to coordinate in such an instance. The electrical contractor can connect the DER device 116 to the DER connector before or after the utility replaces the conventional meter.

[0039] FIG. 6 is a perspective view 600 of a blade portion 602 of a DER meter 102 according to various aspects of the disclosure. In one example, blades 604 and 606 electrically couple to L1 (line) and L2 (line), respectively, of the DER meter 102. Blades 608 and 610 couple to L1 (load) and L2 (load), respectively, of the DER meter 102. Blades 612 and 614 couple to L1 (DER) and L2 (DER), respectively, of the DER meter 102. Additionally, blade 616 couples to a neutral wire N of the DER meter 102. As discussed above with respect to FIG. 4, the blades 602-614 of the DER meter 102 may be keyed to fit within corresponding terminals 202-214 of the socket 200 of FIG. 4. Other arrangements of the blades 602-614 are also contemplated.

[0040] 7 is an exploded view 700 of a DER meter 102 according to various aspects of the disclosure. The blade portion 602 of the DER meter 102 is located on a base plate 702 and may be electrically coupled to a neutral bus bar 704, an L1 (line) bus bar 706, an L2 (line) bus bar 708, an L1 (load) bus bar 710, an L2 (load) bus bar 712, an L1 (DER) bus bar 714, and an L2 (DER) bus bar 716. An L1 interconnect bus bar 718 may electrically interconnect the L1 bus bars 706, 710, and 714, and an L2 interconnect bus bar 720 may electrically interconnect the L2 bus bars 708, 712, and 716.

[0041] In one embodiment, a plastic cover 722 may fit over the bus bars 704-720 and the line disconnect switch assembly 724. The line disconnect switch assembly 724 may be motor driven; that is, a motor may mechanically drive the line disconnect switch assembly 724 to an open or closed position. Control of the line disconnect switch assembly 724 may be provided by a controller 726 on a printed circuit board (PCB) assembly 728. In one embodiment, the line disconnect switch assembly 724 may be the disconnect switch 122 described above with respect to FIG. 1.

[0042] The L1 (line) current transducer 730 may be disposed around the L1 (line) busbar 706, and the L2 (line) current transducer 732 may be disposed around the L2 (line) busbar 708. The L1 (line) current transducer 730 may be used to measure the current on the L1 (line), the L2 (line) current transducer 732 may be used to measure the current on the L2 (line), and the L1 (line) current transducer 730 may be used to measure the current on the L1 (line). In one example, the L1 (line) current transducer 730 and the L2 (line) current transducer 732 may be current transducers 114a and 114b, respectively, as depicted in FIG. 1.

[0043] Similar to the L1 (line) current transducer 730 and the L2 (line) current transducer 732, an L1 (load) current transducer 734 may be disposed around the L1 (load) busbar 710, and an L2 (load) current transducer 736 may be disposed around the L2 (load) busbar 712. The L1 (load) current transducer 734 may be used to measure the current on the L1 (load), and the L2 (load) current transducer 736 may be used to measure the current on the L2 (load). The L1 (load) current transducer 734 and the L2 (load) current transducer 736 may be current transducers 114c and 114d, respectively, as depicted in FIG. 1.

[0044] The L1(DER) current transducer 738 may be disposed around the L1(DER) busbar 714, and the L2(DER) current transducer 740 may be disposed around the L2(DER) busbar 716. The L1(DER) current transducer 738 may be used to measure the current on the L1(DER), the L2(DER) current transducer 740 may be used to measure the current on the L2(DER), and the L1(DER) current transducer 738 may be used to measure the current on the L1(DER). In one example, the L1(DER) current transducer 738 and the L2(DER) current transducer 740 may be current transducers 114e and 114f, respectively, as depicted in FIG. 1.

[0045] Disconnect switches 742 and 744 may also be disposed along the paths of L1 (DER) bus bar 714 and L2 (DER) bus bar 716, respectively. Disconnect switches 742 and 744 may be controllable electrical disconnect switches, such as controllable electrical disconnect switch 124 of FIG. 1. In one example, disconnect switches 742 and 744 may disconnect DER device 116 from DER meter 102 upon the occurrence of an electrical fault. Additionally, disconnect switches 742 and 744 may be controlled locally or remotely using controller 726 or an additional controller on PCB assembly 728.

[0046] An additional L1 interconnect bus bar 746 may electrically interconnect the L1 components at another location, and an additional L2 interconnect bus bar 748 may electrically interconnect the L2 components at another location. An insulating cover 750 may be disposed between the PCB 728 and the L1 and L2 interconnect bus bars 746 and 748. The insulating cover 750 insulates the electrical components of the DER meter 102 from the PCB assembly 728. Additionally, an inner cover 752 may be disposed around the inner components of the DER meter 102, and an outer cover 754 may be disposed around the inner cover 752. In one example, the inner cover 752 may be an opaque plastic, and the outer cover 754 is a clear plastic.

[0047] 8 is a perspective view 800 of DER meter 102 with inner cover 752, outer cover 754, and PCB assembly 728 removed, according to various aspects of the disclosure. As shown, an air gap 802 may be maintained between an exposed (e.g., electrically non-insulated) L1 component 804 and an exposed L2 component 806 of DER meter 102 to provide isolation between L1 component 804 and L2 component 806. In an embodiment, air gap 802 may be maintained at a distance greater than 12 mm. In an example where air gap 802 is less than 12 mm, air gap 802 may be supplemented by adding a plastic layer 808, or other physical boundary layer of electrically insulating material, to further insulate L1 component 804 from L2 component 806.

[0048] 9 is an example of a side view 900 of a DER meter 102 according to various aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the DER meter 102 includes a symmetrical design with an L1 conductor on a first side 902 and an L2 conductor on a second side 904, where the first side 902 is shown on the left side of FIG 9 and the second side 904 is shown on the right side of FIG 9. An air gap 802 may separate the L1 conductor on the first side 902 from the L2 conductor on the second side 904. In one example, any exposed (i.e., not electrically insulated) conductors may be separated by an air gap 802 having a space of at least 12 mm.

[0049] The DER meter 102 can support billable grade metering at the line, load, and DER port and provide bidirectional metering points at each of the three ports. As used herein, the term billable grade metering may refer to a metering system that can perform metering operations to provide measurements of the amount of energy provided by a DER device 116 to a premises or grid 108, as well as the time the energy is provided.

[0050] 10 is an example of a perspective view of a DER meter 102 according to various aspects of the disclosure. An L1 (line) current transducer 730 may be disposed about an L1 (line) busbar 706, and an L2 (line) current transducer 732 may be disposed about an L2 (line) busbar 708 (shown above with respect to FIG. 7). An L1 (load) current transducer 734 may be disposed about an L1 (load) busbar 710, and an L2 (load) current transducer 736 may be disposed about an L2 (load) busbar 712. Additionally, an L1 (DER) current transducer 738 may be positioned about an L1 (DER) busbar 714, and an L2 (DER) current transducer 740 may be positioned about an L2 (DER) busbar 716.

[0051] The L1 (line) current transducer 730, the L1 (load) current transducer 734, and the L1 (DER) current transducer 738 are each disposed on a first side 902 of the DER meter 102. As shown, the first side 902 of the DER meter 102 is associated with the L1 conductor. Additionally, the L2 (line) current transducer 732, the L2 (load) current transducer 736, and the L2 (DER) current transducer 740 are each disposed on a second side 904 of the DER meter 102. As shown, the second side 904 of the DER meter 102 is associated with the L2 conductor.

[0052] 11 is an example of a side view 1100 of a DER meter 102 with the PCB assembly 728 and covers 752, 754 removed in accordance with various aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the DER meter 102 includes a symmetrical design with an L1 conductor on the left side 1102 and an L2 conductor on the right side 1104. The DER meter 102 may support billable grade metering at the line, load, and DER ports, providing bidirectional metering points at each of the three ports.

[0053] In one example, PCB assembly 728 may include a controller 726 that may control the operation of line disconnect switch assembly 724, DER disconnect switch 742, DER disconnect switch 744, or any combination thereof. PCB assembly 728 may also include a communications module (not shown) that provides communications between DER meter 102 and DER device 116. In some examples, the communications module may also provide communications with a mesh network of other metering devices, communications with other IoT devices, or any combination thereof.

[0054] 12 is an example of a perspective view 1200 of DER meter 102 including PCB assembly 728 and covers 752 and 754 removed in accordance with various aspects of the disclosure. Depicted on DER meter 102 are L1 and L2 (load) current transducers 734 and 736, L1 and L2 (line) current transducers 730 and 732, and L1 and L2 (DER) current transducers 738 and 740. L1 (load) current transducer 734, L1 (line) current transducer 730, and L1 (DER) current transducer 738 are each located on left side 1102 of DER meter 102. As shown, left side 1102 of DER meter 102 is associated with the L1 conductor. Additionally, L2 (load) current transducer 736, L2 (line) current transducer 732, and L2 (DER) current transducer 740 are each disposed on a right side 1104 of DER meter 102. As shown, right side 1104 of DER meter 102 is associated with the L2 conductor.

[0055] 13 is an example of a perspective view 1300 of a DER meter 102 including an outer cover 754, according to various aspects of the disclosure. The outer cover 754 may be made from a clear, plastic material. The clear material of the outer cover 754 may allow viewing of the display 1302. The display 1302 may visually display information about the DER meter 102. For example, the display 1302 may provide an indication of kilowatt-hours consumed over a specified period of time, such as a billing cycle.

[0056] In one example, the distance 1304 from the base plate 702 to the outwardly facing surface 1306 of the DER meter 102 may be approximately 1 inch longer than a corresponding metering device without DER metering capabilities. For example, an ANSI Form 16S meter may have dimensions that extend 5 inches from the meter's base plate, while the DER meter 102 extends approximately 6 inches from the base plate 702. Additionally, because the DER meter 102 does not require a collar (e.g., a spacing device to support metering of the DER device 116) installed between the DER meter 102 and the socket 200, the distance 1304 that the DER meter 102 extends from the socket 200 may be much less than the distance that the combination of the collar and standard metering device extends from the socket 200. For example, the collar and metering device may extend 3 or more inches further outward in a direction 1308 from the socket 200 than the DER meter 102.

[0057] In one embodiment, the outer cover 754, or housing, may be generally cylindrical or shaped like a conical pyramid (e.g., with sides sloping toward a common point away from the base plate 702). The left side 1102 of the DER meter 102 may be disposed within a first semi-cylinder 1310 of the outer cover 754. Similarly, the right side 1104 of the DER meter 102 may be positioned within a second semi-cylinder 1312 of the outer cover 754 that is different from the first semi-cylinder 1310.

[0058] 14 is a perspective view 1400 of blades 1404-1418 of a multiport meter 1402 (e.g., a DER meter 102) in accordance with various aspects of the disclosure. The blades 1404-1418 may be arranged in a manner to accommodate the arrangement of a particular DER socket 104. In one example, the blades 1414 and 1416 may connect to a neutral wire N, and the blades 1704, 1706, 1708, 1710, 1712, and 1718 may each connect to a line associated with the grid 108, the DER device 116, or one of the electric services 110. For example, blade 1404 may be coupled to L1 (line) in FIG. 1, blade 1406 may be coupled to L2 (line) in FIG. 1, blade 1408 may be coupled to L1 (load) in FIG. 1, blade 1410 may be coupled to L2 (load) in FIG. 1, blade 1412 may be coupled to L1 (DER) in FIG. 1, blade 1414 may be coupled to the neutral wiring N in FIG. 1, blade 1416 may be coupled to the neutral wiring N in FIG. 1, and blade 1418 may be coupled to L2 (DER) in FIG. 1.

[0059] Although the present subject matter has been described in detail with respect to certain embodiments thereof, it will be appreciated that those skilled in the art, upon gaining the foregoing understanding, may readily make modifications, variations, and equivalents to such embodiments. It will therefore be understood that the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and not limitation, and is not intended to exclude the inclusion of modifications, variations, and / or additions to the present subject matter as would be readily apparent to one skilled in the art.

Claims

1. An electricity meter, Housing and a first set of connection paths configured to couple to the meter socket and electrically coupled to a first electrical connection path between a first phase of the distributed power source, a first phase of the distributed energy resource device, and a first phase of the load, wherein a first electrical measurement component of the first electrical connection path is positionable within a first segment of the housing; and a second set of connection paths configured to couple to the meter socket and electrically coupled to a second electrical connection path between a second phase of the electrical distribution power source and a second phase of the distributed energy resource device and a second phase of the load, wherein a second electrical metering component of the second electrical connection path is positionable within a second segment of the housing that is non-overlapping with the first segment of the housing; the first electrical measurement component includes a first set of current transducers configured to monitor current on a first phase of the distributed power source, a first phase of the distributed energy resource device, and a first phase of the load, and the second electrical measurement component includes a second set of current transducers configured to monitor current on a second phase of the distributed power source, a second phase of the distributed energy resource device, and a second phase of the load; Electricity meter.

2. the housing is cylindrical, the first segment being a first half of the housing, and the second segment being a second half of the housing.

2. The electricity meter of claim 1.

3. the first electrical measurement component includes a first set of bus bars and a first set of current transducers, the second electrical measurement component includes a second set of bus bars and a second set of current transducers, and the first electrical measurement component is spaced at least 12 mm from the second electrical measurement component.

2. The electricity meter of claim 1.

4. the first electrical measurement component and the second electrical measurement component are separated by an air gap, a physical boundary, or a combination of both; 2. The electricity meter of claim 1.

5. further comprising a set of blades, each blade of the set of blades being electrically coupled to a connection path of the first set of connection paths, the second set of connection paths, or the neutral connection path, and the set of blades being installable in a 14S meter socket, a 15S meter socket, or a 16S meter socket; 2. The electricity meter of claim 1.

6. moreover, A base plate; and a communications module positionable within the housing at a first distance from the base plate that is greater than a second distance between the first and second electrical measurement components and the base plate; Including, the communications module is configured to enable communications with other meters and with a utility company; 2. The electricity meter of claim 1.

7. 1. A system comprising: Electricity meter socket; an electricity meter configured to mate with the electricity meter socket; Including, The electricity meter, Housing and a first set of connection paths between the electric meter and the electric meter socket, the first set of connection paths being electrically coupled to first electrical connection paths between a first phase of a distributed power source, a first phase of a distributed energy resource device, and a first phase of a load, a first electrical measurement component of the first electrical connection paths being positionable within a first segment of a housing; and a second set of connection paths between the electric meter and the electric meter socket, the second set of connection paths being electrically coupled to second electrical connection paths between a second phase of a distributed power source, a second phase of a distributed energy resource device, and a second phase of a load, wherein a second electrical measurement component of the second electrical connection paths is positionable within a second segment of the housing that is non-overlapping with the first segment of the housing; the first electrical measurement component includes a first set of current transducers configured to monitor current on a first phase of the distributed power source, a first phase of the distributed energy resource device, and a first phase of the load, and the second electrical measurement component includes a second set of current transducers configured to monitor current on a second phase of the distributed power source, a second phase of the distributed energy resource device, and a second phase of the load; system.

8. The electricity meter further comprises: a controllable electrical disconnect switch configured to connect and disconnect the distributed energy resource device from the distributed power source based on power production or consumption requirements of the distributed power source and the distributed energy resource device, the controllable electrical disconnect switch being positionable along the first set of connection paths, the second set of connection paths, or a combination thereof; The system of claim 7 .

9. the first electrical measurement component includes a first set of bus bars and a first set of current transducers, the second electrical measurement component includes a second set of bus bars and a second set of current transducers, and the first electrical measurement component is spaced at least 12 mm from the second electrical measurement component; The system of claim 7.

10. The system of claim 7 , wherein the first electrical measurement component and the second electrical measurement component are separated by an air gap, a physical boundary, or a combination of both.

11. The electricity meter further comprises: a circuit breaker positionable within the housing along the first set of connection paths, the second set of connection paths, or a combination thereof, the circuit breaker configured to electrically disconnect the distributed energy resource device from the electric meter upon the occurrence of an electrical fault; The system of claim 7 .

12. The electricity meter further comprises: a plurality of mating connectors configured to form electrical connections to the first set of connection paths and the second set of connection paths, the plurality of mating connectors configured to interface with the electric meter socket, and at least one mating connector of the plurality of mating connectors configured to electrically couple to a neutral wire; The system of claim 7 .

13. the first electrical measurement component and the second electrical measurement component include a plurality of measurement devices configured to measure first electrical characteristics of voltage and current waveforms supplied to the load and to measure second electrical characteristics of voltage and current waveforms supplied from the distribution power source and the distributed energy resource device to the electric meter; The system of claim 7.

14. 1. A system for metering a distributed energy resource device, comprising: The system comprises: An electricity meter, Housing and a first set of connection paths electrically coupled to a first electrical connection path between a first phase of the distributed power source, a first phase of the distributed energy resource device, and a first phase of the load, wherein a first electrical measurement component of the first electrical connection path is positionable within a first segment of the housing; a second set of connection paths electrically coupled to a second electrical connection path between a second phase of the distributed power source and a second phase of the distributed energy resource device and a second phase of the load, wherein a second electrical measurement component of the second electrical connection path is positionable within a second segment of the housing that is non-overlapping with the first segment of the housing; and an electricity meter socket configured to electrically couple to an electricity meter; Including an electric meter, the first electrical measurement component includes a first set of current transducers configured to monitor current on a first phase of the distributed power source, a first phase of the distributed energy resource device, and a first phase of the load, and the second electrical measurement component includes a second set of current transducers configured to monitor current on a second phase of the distributed power source, a second phase of the distributed energy resource device, and a second phase of the load; The electric meter socket comprises: a first line connection path and a second line connection path within the electric meter socket configured to form a first line electrical connection and a second line electrical connection between the electric meter and a line voltage wiring of the electric distribution power source; a first distributed energy resource connection path and a second distributed energy resource connection path in the electric meter socket configured to form a first distributed energy resource electrical connection and a second distributed energy resource electrical connection between the electric meter and a distributed energy resource voltage wiring of a distributed energy resource device; a first load connection path and a second load connection path in the electric meter socket configured to form a first load electrical connection and a second load electrical connection between the electric meter and the load; and at least one neutral connection path in the electric meter socket configured to form a neutral electrical connection between the electric meter and neutral wiring of the electric distribution power source, the distributed energy resource device, and the load; Including, the system.

15. The electricity meter further comprises: A plurality of blades associated with the first set of connection paths and the second set of connection paths. Including, the plurality of blades are configured to form electrical connections with a plurality of mating connectors of the electricity meter socket. The system of claim 14.

16. the housing comprises a cylindrical shape; the first segment includes a first half-cylinder of the housing; the second segment comprises a second half of the housing; The system of claim 14.

17. the first electrical measurement component and the second electrical measurement component include a plurality of measurement devices configured to measure electrical characteristics of voltage and current waveforms provided to or from the electrical distribution power source, to or from the distributed energy resource device, and to the load; The system of claim 14.

18. the first electrical measurement component and the second electrical measurement component are separated by an air gap, a physical boundary, or a combination of both; The system of claim 14.

19. The electricity meter further comprises: a circuit breaker configured to disconnect the distributed energy resource device from the electric meter upon the occurrence of an electrical fault. The system of claim 14 .

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