Intelligent nanogrid adapted appliance system

Abstract

A backup power system comprises a power supply input, a battery, a plurality of power outputs, a processing unit, and an enclosure that includes the battery and the processing unit and at least partially includes the power supply input and the plurality of power outputs. The power supply input is configured to receive AC power distributed via an electrical system of a building. The processing unit is configured to selectively provide power to the plurality of power outputs from the battery or the power supply input based on a status of the received AC power.

Description

Intelligent Nanogrid Adapted Appliance SystemCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 569,986 filed March 26, 2024, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 680,432 filed August 7, 2024, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 683,114 filed August 14, 2024, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 689,550 filed August 30, 2024, and U.S. Patent Application No. 19 / 083,668 filed March 19, 2025, and the disclosures of each are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties for all purposes.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to systems and techniques for power generation and energy storage at a premises, and more specifically, to an Intelligent Nanogrid Adapted Appliance System.BACKGROUND

[0003] The landscape of backup power solutions for residential settings comprises various technologies attempting to address power interruptions. Traditional backup systems such as uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) offer short-term backup at low power output but lack the intelligence necessary to manage energy to connected devices during outages, for remote monitoring, or for deeper software-enabled integration with the devices they power and with broader home energy and solar product ecosystems.

[0004] Whole-home battery systems, illustrated by products such as Tesla's Powerwall, provide comprehensive general-purpose home backup but are hindered by high costs, complex installation that requires rewiring, inaccessibility for renters due to permitting and fixed installation requirements, and do not offer any deeper data insight into the home appliances they power. Similarly, fixed-in-place fossil fuel generators lack networked software intelligence and often face environmental restrictions and entail significant fixed installation and maintenance overhead hindering mass adoption.

[0005] Portable fossil fuel generators also lack intelligence such as the aforementioned solutions, pose safety risks, require manual operation, and do not align with evolving environmental and health regulations.

[0006] Portable battery power stations are designed for supplying general-purpose AC and DC power on-the-go. However, they are not optimized for home backup use as they requiremanual operation, running of temporary extension cords, and have form factors which are inconvenient for persistent installation. However, these systems also lack the intelligence to support nanogrid functionality alongside household appliances, or to offer additional energy management, control and monitoring to the devices they power, or to support stability of the larger power grid via advanced software control systems.

[0007] While some electric vehicles (EVs) show promise for providing residential backup power, their use presents practical challenges such as complex home electrical system integration and rewiring, manual backup initiation, potential unavailability during an outage, and lack of appliance-level insight.

[0008] Additionally, conventional household appliances themselves lack intelligent power management and monitoring or embedded energy storage, leading to users being unaware of performance anomalies until appliances fail or experience significantly degraded performance. Given the long lifespan of most major home appliances, the barrier of replacement for modern technology presents significant challenges to access better solutions.

[0009] Home energy monitoring equipment and home energy management systems (HEMS) boast some improvements over backup power solutions alone when the two are paired together, however these systems suffer the same limited data as whole-home backup battery systems, relying primarily on power monitoring to inaccurately infer downstream appliance presence, performance, and status. Moreover, these solutions require permitting and specialized labor, creating major barriers to scale.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Some embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated as an example and are not limited by the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which like references may indicate similar elements and in which:

[0011] FIG. 1 depicts a system level block diagram showing functional elements of a NAAS and relational groupings.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a flow chart describing an example of software functions executed by a NAAS.

[0013] FIG. 3 depicts an example of several modules and connections on the loT module printed circuit board assembly of a NAAS, including the main compute microcontroller.

[0014] FIG. 4 depicts an example of circuitry including aspects of the logic power circuit architecture and AC voltage sensing circuitry of the NAAS, with respect to the islanding capabilities enabled by the grid disconnect relay.

[0015] FIG. 5a, 5b and 5e depict three front facing isometric views of an illustrative design embodiment , highlighting functional mechanical aspects and external user interfaces for power, indication, and other user interactions.

[0016] Figs. 5c, 5d and 5f depict three rear facing isometric views, of an illustrative design embodiment , highlighting functional mechanical aspects and external user interfaces for power, indication, and other user interactions.

[0017] FIG. 6 depicts a view of an embodiment of the system highlighting the use of mounting functions of a remote unit.

[0018] FIGs. 7a and 7b depict examples of a system co-located with the primary associated AC appliance, highlighting features supporting ease of connecting power and signal connections.

[0019] FIG. 8a shows a design of the system for installation in a nearby cabinet.

[0020] FIGs. 8b and 8c show designs of the system, for installation atop various designs of refrigeration appliances.

[0021] FIG. 8d shows a design of the system, for installation proximate to a chest-style refrigerator or freezer.

[0022] FIG. 9a details a power architecture with a main unit hosting energy storage, bidirectional DCAC power conversion, grid disconnects, and power relays along with a connected remote unit hosting additional receptacles that are controllable and energy monitored, and allowing for connection of external DC source and energy storage modules.

[0023] FIG. 9b shows a related architecture in which DC optimization functionality for connected sources and energy storage exists within the main unit, along with a plurality of metered, controllable receptacles on the main unit.

[0024] FIG. 9c shows a related architecture wherein both AC and DC power conductors are passed from a main unit to remote unit.

[0025] FIG. 9d shows an alternate approach to achieve similar functionality with two independent DCAC conversion stages and a power relay configuration to switch AC loads between sources.

[0026] FIG. 9e details a simplified power architecture variation wherein a bidirectional DCAC within a main unit is connected to a plurality of receptacles connected to a shared DC bus.

[0027] FIG. 9f details a related power architecture design wherein a switching bypass relay is used to manage connection of the plurality of AC receptacles to the DCAC and input source, independent of the DCAC main grid disconnect relay.

[0028] FIG. 10 depicts a logic state diagram of an example of the Nanogrid Control System software’s intentional islanding behavior.

[0029] FIG. 11 depicts logic state diagrams of an example of the Energy Management System software’s Energy Saving mode for embodiments in which the primary associated appliance is a refrigerator / freezer.

[0030] FIG. Ila details illustrative logic when internal temperature and door state sensing via environmental sensors is available.

[0031] FIG. 11b details illustrative logic when environmental sensors are not used.

[0032] FIG. 12 provides an example of time-series power and temperature data comparing baseline performance to Energy Savings mode performance, for embodiments in which the primary associated appliance is a refrigerator / freezer.

[0033] FIG. 13 depicts a logic state diagram of an example of the Appliance Management System software’s performance and state abnormality detection.

[0034] FIG. 14a shows an example of software-implemented logic when AC-coupled onsite solar is available.

[0035] FIG. 14b shows an example of software-implemented logic when both AC- coupled and DC-coupled solar are available.

[0036] FIG. 15 is a flow chart of the Nanogrid Control System software’s microgrid coordination software functions.

[0037] FIG. 16 illustrates several examples of how the system can be designed for direct mechanical and electrical coupling with select appliances, such as a refrigerator and washerdryer appliance.

[0038] FIG. 17 depicts a more detailed view of an example of a design of the system for direct mechanical and electrical coupling with select appliances.

[0039] FIG. 18 depicts an example of a connectorized wiring harness system between the system and an appliance designed for coupling, highlighting a manner of connection between AC connection points and communication and control wiring points.

[0040] FIG. 19 is a flow chart illustrating an example of a process that may be performed by the system to provide AC power to a connected appliance.

[0041] FIG. 20 shows illustrative embodiments of nanogrid nodes.

[0042] FIG. 21 is a system level block diagram showing functional elements of an example of a nanogrid node and software-defined interactions at a premises aggregate level.

[0043] FIG. 22 is a system level block diagram showing an example of nanogrid nodes forming a nanogrid mesh, along with software interactions with on-premises and remote software systems.

[0044] FIG. 23 illustrates communication logic at an individual node, including an aggregation function to synthesize site-level power, energy, and status across nanogrid nodes.

[0045] FIG. 24 depicts a flowchart diagram of the nanogrid node core software functions.

[0046] FIG. 25 depicts a flowchart illustrating logical states to securely register and deregister new nanogrid nodes on the mesh network for scalability.

[0047] FIG. 26a illustrates a fully connected nanogrid mesh topology, in which each node is directly connected to every other nanogrid node.

[0048] FIG. 26b illustrates a nanogrid mesh topology in which an Extender Node has been added to the nanogrid system to extend the wireless coverage.

[0049] FIG. 26c illustrates a nanogrid mesh topology in which separate nanogrid nodes have connections to different devices outside the mesh network.

[0050] FIG. 27 is a flowchart of an example process for providing a unified representation of a nanogrid system including a plurality of nanogrid nodes.

[0051] FIG. 28a shows an example of a building's electrical system and a nanogrid integrated within it using a plug and receptacle connection method. The diagram details power architecture for the example nanogrid, containing battery energy storage, integrated and user- connected AC and DC loads, and optional external solar photovoltaic and battery storage modules.

[0052] FIG. 28b shows an example of a building's electrical system and a nanogrid integrated within it using a fixed wiring connection method to a distribution load center. The diagram details power architecture for the example nanogrid, containing battery energy storage, integrated and user-connected AC and DC loads, and optional external solar photovoltaic and battery storage modules.

[0053] FIG. 28c shows an example of a building's electrical system with site-level Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), site-level Microgrid Interconnection Device (MID), and a nanogrid integrated within it using a plug and receptacle connection method. The diagram details power architecture for the example nanogrid, containing battery energy storage, integrated and user-connected AC and DC loads, and optional external solar photovoltaic and battery storage modules.

[0054] FIG. 28d shows an example of a building's electrical system and a nanogrid integrated within it using a plug and receptacle connection method. The diagram details power architecture for the example nanogrid, containing battery energy storage, integrated and user- connected AC and DC loads, optional external solar photovoltaic and battery storage modules, and an integrated load which may be selectively switched between the AC or DC bus within the nanogrid.

[0055] FIG. 29a is a system-level block diagram showing functional elements of an onboard compute system of a nanogrid system.

[0056] FIG. 29b is a system-level block diagram showing a nanogrid system with modular attachments for power, communication, and processing modules.

[0057] FIG. 30 is a system-level block diagram showing examples of software-controlled interactions between nanogrid system(s) and both on-premises and remote software systems.

[0058] FIG. 31 depicts a logic state diagram of the nanogrid system’s Microgrid Control System (MCS) software-defined intentional islanding behavior, as would be used to provide seamless backup power to loads associated with the nanogrid system.

[0059] FIG. 32a shows an example of the operational mode and power routing strategies taken by the nanogrid and its Energy Management System (EMS) software, in relation to the utility grid and other systems connected to premises electrical distribution system, where the system is grid-connected with net power import, with an AC-coupled solar system producing excess power to supply power to AC loads, to charge an example central energy storage system, and to supply power to the nanogrid system to charge the battery and supply its loads.

[0060] FIG. 32b shows an example of the operational mode and power routing strategies taken by the nanogrid and its Energy Management System (EMS) software, in relation to the utility grid and other systems connected to premises electrical distribution system, where the system is grid-connected with net power import, with both and AC-coupled and DC-coupled solar system producing excess power to supply power to AC building loads, and to supply power to the nanogrid system to charge the battery and supply its loads.

[0061] FIG. 32c shows an example of the operational mode and power routing strategies taken by the nanogrid and its Energy Management System (EMS) software, in relation to the utility grid and other systems connected to premises electrical distribution system, where the system is grid-connected with net power export, with a DC-coupled solar system producing excess power to supply power to AC loads, and to supply power to the nanogrid system to charge the battery and supply a select set of its DC loads.

[0062] FIG. 32d shows an example of the operational mode and power routing strategies taken by the nanogrid and its Energy Management System (EMS) software, in relation to the utility grid and other systems connected to premises electrical distribution system, where the system is grid-connected with net power export, with the onboard energy storage discharging to supply power to AC loads, and to supply power to the nanogrid system to supply a select set of its DC and AC loads.

[0063] FIG. 32e shows an example of the operational mode and power routing strategies taken by the nanogrid and its Energy Management System (EMS) software, in relation to the utility grid and other systems connected to premises electrical distribution system, where the system is grid-connected with zero net power flow to the building electrical system, with a DC- coupled solar system producing power along with onboard battery discharging, to supply power to the nanogrid’s DC and AC loads.

[0064] FIG. 32f shows an example of the operational mode and power routing strategies taken by the nanogrid and its Energy Management System (EMS) software, in relation to the utility grid and other systems connected to premises electrical distribution system, where the system is grid-connected with zero net power flow to the building electrical system, with the onboard battery discharging, to supply power to the nanogrid’s DC and AC loads.

[0065] FIG. 32g shows an example of the operational mode and power routing strategies taken by the nanogrid and its Energy Management System (EMS) software, in relation to the utility grid and other systems connected to premises electrical distribution system, where the system is islanded from the building electrical, with a DC-coupled solar system producing power along with onboard battery discharging, to supply power to the nanogrid’s DC and AC loads.

[0066] FIG. 32h shows an example of the operational mode and power routing strategies taken by the nanogrid and its Energy Management System (EMS) software, in relation to the utility grid and other systems connected to premises electrical distribution system, where the system is islanded from the building electrical, with onboard battery discharging to supply power to the nanogrid’s DC and AC loads.

[0067] FIG. 32i shows an example of the operational mode and power routing strategies taken by the nanogrid and its Energy Management System (EMS) software, in relation to the utility grid and other systems connected to premises electrical distribution system, where a central building microgrid system is islanded from the utility grid, with net power import to the nanogrid system from an AC-coupled solar system and central energy storage systemproviding power to supply power to the building’s AC loads, and to supply power to the nanogrid system to charge the battery and supply its loads.

[0068] FIG. 32 j shows an example of the operational mode and power routing strategies taken by the nanogrid and its Energy Management System (EMS) software, in relation to the utility grid and other systems connected to premises electrical distribution system, where a central building microgrid system is islanded from the utility grid, with net power import to the nanogrid system from an AC-coupled solar system and central energy storage system providing power to supply power to the building’s AC loads, along with DC-coupled solar production at the nanogrid to supply power to the nanogrid system to charge the battery and supply its loads.

[0069] FIG. 32k shows an example of the operational mode and power routing strategies taken by the nanogrid and its Energy Management System (EMS) software, in relation to the utility grid and other systems connected to premises electrical distribution system, where a central building microgrid system is islanded from the utility grid, with net power export from the nanogrid system and central energy storage system providing power to supply power to the building’s AC loads, along with DC-coupled solar production at the nanogrid to supply power to the nanogrid system to supply nanogrid loads.

[0070] FIG. 32m shows an example of the operational mode and power routing strategies taken by the nanogrid and its Energy Management System (EMS) software, in relation to the utility grid and other systems connected to premises electrical distribution system, where a central building microgrid system is islanded from the utility grid, with net power export from the nanogrid system and central energy storage system providing power to supply power to the building’s AC loads, along with nanogrid battery discharging to supply power to the nanogrid system to supply nanogrid loads.

[0071] FIG. 33 is a flowchart illustrating operations carried out by a nanogrid system, related to energy management behaviors and interaction with other on-premises energy systems.

[0072] FIG. 34 is a logic state diagram of the Appliance Management System (AMS) software providing anomaly detection and failure prediction for connected loads within and attached to the nanogrid system.

[0073] FIG. 35a is a flowchart diagram describing inputs and outputs of software functions carried out by the Thermal Management System.

[0074] FIG. 35b is a flowchart of a process for maintaining the system’s software-defined thermal and operational setpoints and limits.

[0075] FIG. 35c is a flowchart of a process of selecting between operational modes wherein a load to the Thermal System may be modified based on energy source(s) and storage.

[0076] FIG. 36al shows an example of a strategy for exchanging heat between an interior refrigerated compartment of the nanogrid appliance system and the internal battery and power modules within the system, where the primary method for heat transfer is via a thermal conductance through a cold plate or thermally conductive heatsink block.

[0077] FIG. 36a2 shows an example of a strategy for exchanging heat between an interior refrigerated compartment of the nanogrid appliance system and the internal battery and power modules within the system, where the primary method for heat transfer is via an internal heat duct and air blower assembly.

[0078] FIG. 36a3 shows an example of a strategy for exchanging heat between an interior refrigerated compartment of the nanogrid appliance system and the internal battery and power modules within the system, where the primary method for heat transfer is via a single internal loop to pump a thermal fluid to shuttle heat from one sub system to another.

[0079] FIG. 36a4 shows an example of a strategy for exchanging heat between multiple interior refrigerated compartments of the nanogrid appliance system and the internal battery and power modules within the system, where the primary method for heat transfer is via an internal loop to pump a thermal fluid to shuttle heat from one sub system to another, along with a secondary auxiliary loop allowing for selective routing of the thermal fluid from the battery module.

[0080] FIG. 36bl shows an example of a strategy for exchanging heat between the system and battery and power modules within the system and an evaporator module within the system’s refrigeration loop, where the primary method for heat transfer is via a thermal conductance through a cold plate or thermally conductive heatsink block.

[0081] FIG. 36b2 shows an example of a strategy for exchanging heat between the system and battery and power modules within the system and an evaporator module within the system’s refrigeration loop, where the primary method for heat transfer is via a single internal loop to pump a thermal fluid to shuttle heat from one sub system to another.

[0082] FIG. 36b3 shows an example of a strategy for exchanging heat between the system and battery and power modules within the system and an evaporator module within the system’s refrigeration loop, where the primary method for heat transfer is via an internal heat duct and air blower assembly.

[0083] FIG. 37a depicts an example of an architecture of a nanogrid system leveraging airflow to manage temperature of battery and power electronics modules.

[0084] FIG. 37b depicts an example of an architecture with a controllable auxiliary loop of the refrigeration symptom to manage temperature of battery and power electronics module(s).

[0085] FIG. 37c depicts an example of an architecture expanding on FIG. 37b to include an additional closed thermal loop for heat exchange between battery and power electronics module(s) and other compartments of the system.

[0086] FIG. 37d depicts an example of an architecture expanding on FIG. 37c to include a heated water tap system.

[0087] FIG. 37e depicts an example of an architecture with two closed refrigeration loops.

[0088] FIG. 37f depicts an example of an architecture leveraging a reversing valve to alternate between providing cooling and heating functionality, along with a strategy for managing heat exchange to battery and power electronics module(s).

[0089] FIG. 37g depicts two example of an architectures leveraging controllable openloop fluid flow heat exchange with battery and power electronics module(s).

[0090] FIG. 38a is a flowchart of a process performed by the Thermal Management System (TMS) providing selective cooling to battery energy storage and power electronics modules.

[0091] FIG. 38b is a flowchart of a process performed by the TMS providing selective defrost heating to refrigeration compartments leveraging system waste heat.

[0092] FIG. 39a is a flowchart of a process of the nanogrid system to manage remote power requests, such as for Virtual Power Plant (VPP) or Demand Response (DR) events.

[0093] FIG. 39b is a flowchart of a process of the Energy Management System (EMS) to optimize energy usage from various sources such as grid, microgrid, solar, and battery energy storage.

[0094] FIG. 40a is an example system diagram of the nanogrid system’s AC and DC power architectures for a simple appliance with a refrigeration loop, showing power routing within the nanogrid system between AC supply, internal battery energy storage, user- connected AC and DC loads, integrated DC loads, and low-voltage DC components and sensors.

[0095] FIG. 40b is an example system diagram of the nanogrid system’s AC and DC power architectures for an appliance with one or more refrigeration loops, showing power routing within the nanogrid system between AC supply, internal battery energy storage, user- connected AC and DC loads, integrated AC and DC loads, low-voltage DC components andsensors, as well as solar photovoltaic inputs and internal solar MPPT converters connected to the internal DC bus.

[0096] FIG.40c is an example system diagram of the nanogrid system’s AC and DC power architectures for an appliance with one or more refrigeration loops, showing power routing within the nanogrid system between AC supply, internal battery energy storage, user- connected AC and DC loads, integrated AC and DC loads, low-voltage DC components and sensors, as well as solar photovoltaic inputs and internal solar MPPT converters and user- replaceable battery energy storage modules connected to the internal DC bus.

[0097] FIG. 40d is an example system diagram of the nanogrid system’s AC and DC power architectures for a heat pump appliance, showing power routing within the nanogrid system between AC supply, internal battery energy storage, user-connected AC and DC loads, integrated AC and DC loads, low-voltage DC components and sensors, as well as solar photovoltaic inputs and internal solar MPPT converters and user-replaceable battery energy storage modules connected to the internal DC bus.

[0098] FIG. 41al is a front-facing isometric view of an integrated nanogrid system that includes a refrigeration appliance.

[0099] FIG. 41a2 is a front-facing isometric view of the integrated nanogrid system of FIG. 41al, illustrating an example of how an aesthetic cover may be added.[000100] FIG. 41a3 is a front-facing isometric view of the integrated nanogrid system of FIGs. 41al and 41a2, illustrating how one or more photovoltaic panels and / or loads can be connected to the integrated nanogrid system.[000101] FIG. 41a4 is a front-facing isometric view of an integrated nanogrid system such as shown in FIGs. 41al - 41a3, but with one or more dispensable water taps in its front door.[000102] FIG. 41b shows a rear-facing isometric view of the integrated nanogrid system of FIGs. 41a - 41a3 or FIG. 41a4.[000103] FIG.42a shows a front- facing, isometric, cut-away view of an integrated nanogrid system that includes a water heater.[000104] FIG. 42b shows a front-facing, isometric view of the integrated nanogrid system of FIG.42a, showing how one or more photovoltaic panels, loads and / or batter storage modules can be connected to the integrated nanogrid system.[000105] FIG.43a shows a front- facing, isometric, cut-away view of an integrated nanogrid system that includes a water heater a window unit air conditioner or heat pump.[000106] FIG. 43b shows a front-facing, isometric view of the integrated nanogrid system of FIG.43a, showing how one or more photovoltaic panels, loads and / or batter storage modules can be connected to the integrated nanogrid system.[000107] FIG. 44 depicts an in-situ isometric view of an example embodiment in which the integrated nanogrid system is designed to provide heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) in a “mini-split” form factor, including the connection of optional solar photovoltaic panels.[000108] FIG. 45a is a front-facing isometric view of an integrated nanogrid system that includes a clothes washer and / or dryer.[000109] FIG. 45b is a front-facing isometric view of the integrated nanogrid system of FIG.45a, illustrating an example of how an aesthetic cover may be added.[000110] FIG. 45c is a front-facing isometric view of the integrated nanogrid system of FIGs. 45a and 45b, illustrating how one or more photovoltaic panels and / or loads can be connected to the integrated nanogrid system.DETAILED DESCRIPTION[000111] The current state of residential backup power solutions and home appliances leaves a need for cost-effective, intelligent, and easily deployable backup power and context- aware, programmable energy management solutions. These solutions should seamlessly integrate with essential household appliances, ensuring reliable backup power supply and granular, application-specific sensing to provide valuable appliance performance monitoring.[000112] The present disclosure, therefore, is directed toward enhancing energy resilience, energy awareness, appliance performance, and safety within residential environments through the use of an intelligent Nanogrid Adapted Appliance System (NAAS) and / or a system of multiple interconnected NAASs (the term “nanogrid” is defined below). A NAAS such as described below monitors and safeguards critical devices providing reliable power to resources such as food and medicine refrigeration, communication devices, space conditioning, home security equipment, and other essential home devices in the event of power disruptions or other abnormal operation. A NAAS designed to provide backup power supply to essential household devices during grid outages, catering to the pressing need for reliable, intelligent, and scalable solutions, while simultaneously providing appliance-tailored performance monitoring through any power scenario for improved everyday awareness.[000113] A NAAS represents a departure from traditional fixed and temporary backup power systems and loT appliances. It introduces all-in-one, self-contained, purpose-builtnanogrids for simple pairing with household appliances, transforming existing appliances into intelligent, interconnected power nodes capable of autonomous energy optimization, detection of performance anomalies, and automatic backup power. Without requiring professional installation, yet with advanced software intelligence and smart-home / smart-grid integration capability, the approach introduced here promises unprecedented accessibility, resilience, adaptability, and device-specific performance insights for critical appliances.[000114] Innovations in energy storage and intelligent power management are pivotal for maintaining safety, communication, comfort, and convenience during power loss and abnormal operation, as well as stabilizing the power grid at-large. The disclosed system introduces a pioneering approach by integrating purpose-built integrated nanogrid systems alongside existing household appliances. This transformative integration empowers conventional devices and appliances to become digitally independent, interconnected, intelligent power nodes capable of self-powering during outages and actively participating in the larger electric power system.[000115] The field of the present disclosure converges at the intersection of battery energy storage, household appliances, intelligent monitoring, Internet of Things (loT), and decentralized energy management. This system seeks to bridge the gap between existing general purpose backup power solutions and the growing demand for accessible, cost-effective, and automated home systems. A NAAS seamlessly adapts to various appliance classes and manufacturers without complex installation processes and without specialized labor.[000116] This disclosure addresses the limitations of traditional backup systems such as uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), portable generators, and permanent grid-tied solutions (such as stationary backup generators and whole-home solar backup battery systems) as well as limitations of traditional and modern home appliances. NAAS introduces a versatile and scalable system to empower homeowners and renters with reliable backup power and intelligent appliance-level performance awareness.[000117] The NAAS approach is designed to enhance household energy resilience during power outages and provide unprecedented awareness into essential appliance performance. The system includes a battery energy storage module and power conversion and control system, which seamlessly integrates with various household appliances to provide reliable power to a primary associated appliance while also providing auxiliary power to other portable electronic devices. Engineered for user-friendly installation and operation, the NAAS system incorporates intelligent software-defined appliance energy management, unprecedented environmental sensing capabilities, and a power conversion and control architecture. Thissystem empowers users with home power management and smart energy insights representing a significant advancement in accessibility to home backup power solutions. As an example, in some embodiments a NAAS can be designed to be installed alongside a refrigerator / freezer in minutes by an average home occupant to provide unprecedented user awareness of refrigeration appliance performance, and therefore increase safety of refrigerated food and medicines. By networking NAAS systems together, we introduce the concept of Nanogrid Distributed Energy Resources (N-DERs) for intelligent integration and interoperability to expand the granular control capabilities of the utility grid and home microgrid.[000118] In this disclosure, a distinction is drawn between a microgrid and a nanogrid. A “microgrid” is defined herein as a premises wiring system that includes power generation, energy storage and one or more loads, and includes the ability to disconnect (i.e., to intentionally “island”j from and to operate in parallel with the primary source. Microgrids contain some or all of the premises distribution system (e.g., load centers and feeder conductors) to provide broad coverage of the electrical system. As such, a microgrid necessarily contains fixed-in-place (i.e. non-temporary) electrical equipment subject to specific installation and permitting requirements. For a residential microgrid, the primary source is generally considered to be the electric utility grid.[000119] In contrast, a “nanogrid” is defined herein as a self-contained system, designed for operation at a premises (e.g., a home or small business), that may be electrically connected in either a temporary or non-temporary manner and that includes energy storage, connection points for generation, and connection points for one or more loads, and includes the ability to disconnect from and operate in parallel with the premises wiring system (i.e., with the utility grid). A nanogrid has the ability to operate within a microgrid, Hence, one or more nanogrids can exist as nested elements within a premises’ microgrid system, or may exist in the absence of a larger microgrid system such that all intentional islanding capabilities across the site are limited to each independent nanogrid.[000120] The intelligent NAAS redefines smart home technologies and battery backup resiliency solutions with its purpose-built design for simple, plug-and-play integration alongside target existing appliances, providing substantial technical improvements over conventional home backup power solutions, home appliances, and home energy management systems. By including advanced software plus computation architecture, the technology offers continuous monitoring of environmental variables and power consumption to provide unprecedented context into performance of essential household appliances such asrefrigeration, space conditioning, and communication. Additionally, this system provides automatic, seamless backup power and energy management for connected appliances via its internal battery energy storage system and power conversion modules offering peace of mind from power outages and appliance performance abnormalities. The system, scalable and adaptable, introduces unprecedented software features targeting performance optimization, energy management, nanogrid controls, and appliance failure prediction algorithms. The system boasts user-friendly interfaces both onboard and through companion smartphone and web applications for monitoring even while users are away from home. Furthermore, the system’s design positions it to actively participate within a broader home energy ecosystem and microgrid, with APIs for seamless interoperability. The system supports flexible use, with AC and DC power receptacles for powering multiple plug-in devices, and connections for additional user-installable modules to expand hardware-enabled capabilities over time. The approach introduced here surpasses traditional fixed-in-place home microgrid systems in simplicity, accessibility, and appliance context-awareness while also surpassing traditional portable backup systems in safety, software intelligence, integration capabilities, and scalability. This system thereby provides an affordable, scalable, smart solution to monitor and power the most essential home devices.L Intelligent Nanogrid Adapted Appliance SystemHigh-Level Product Architecture and Application:[000121] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a NAAS, according to at least one embodiment. The NAAS (also called “the backup power system” or simply “the system” herein) 100 includes a device that encompasses an integrated battery energy storage system 102 and battery management system (BMS) 104, one or more alternating current (AC) power conversion and direct current (DC) power conversion mechanisms 106-110, one or more onboard compute 108-110 and communication modules 112-114, one or more integrated circuit board assemblies, one or more battery and thermal management units 104, and one or more receptacles, user interfaces, and safety elements. The NAAS system 100 incorporates circuitry for power measurement 116-118 and control of connected devices 120-122, environmental sensors 124, sensor inputs 126, and a user interface for displaying system status 128-130. By using an onboard grid disconnection relay 132, the system is capable of isolating from the supply power (i.e., intentionally islanding from the broader home electrical system or microgrid).[000122] The system 100 is designed to integrate seamlessly with one or more existing household appliances, such as with existing refrigerator / freezer appliances of a variety of styles and manufacturers (e.g. side-by-side, top-freezer, French door, chest-style refrigeration appliances) in some embodiments. The system 100 is designed to connect directly to one or more supported appliances, i.e., with no premises wiring or utility-provided wiring or other infrastructure electrically between the system 100 and the supported appliance(s). Additionally, the system offers general use power output receptacles 134-136 for powering portable devices such as phones, tablets, laptops, rechargeable flashlights, and countertop kitchen appliances. Moreover, other embodiments of the system cater to purpose-designed integration with other primary associated appliances such as:• Internet network routers and personal computer equipment• Security devices (e.g. doorbells, alarms, home security cameras)• Critical lighting fixtures• Semi-permanent heating / cooling units (e.g. fans, window air conditioning units)[000123] Designed for user-friendly installation, this plug-and-play system 100 is engineered for ease, enabling installation by individuals without specialized knowledge of electrical systems. In some embodiments, the system is configured to sit atop a standard refrigerator / freezer appliance or within an adjacent storage cabinet. Although designed for semi-permanence, the system 100 retains user-removability, allowing relocation when needed. Semi-permanent installation may be via a mounting bracket and fasteners for optional wall attachment.[000124] The system 100 receives AC power via connection to an existing home power receptacle. In embodiments targeting refrigerator / freezer applications, that appliance (i.e., the refrigerator / freezer) is plugged into a receptacle or connected to the system 100 such that the appliance may selectively receive power from the system 100 (as determined by software onboard the system 100), from the existing wall outlet as a pass-through (for efficiency, to reduce conversion losses during normal grid-connected modes), or from a combination of both sources.[000125] Environmental sensor modules 124 optionally connected to the system may contain temperature, humidity, proximity, sound, and / or light sensors. In some embodiments, these sensors are designed to measure internal refrigeration / freezer conditions such as temperature and light by transmitting analog signals over a wired connection 138 back to a main unit. These sensor packages are designed for easy user replacement. Other embodiments of environmental sensor packages 140 use wireless integration by including an onboardrechargeable battery and communication modules, and may also use embedded computational capability within the sensor module itself for digital communication to the main unit.[000126] Some embodiments of the NAAS host additional AC power receptacles (e.g., NEMA 5-15R, 1-15R, and / or 5-20R for the North American market) and DC outputs (e.g., USB type A, USB type C, and general purpose 12 volt DC outputs) 134-136. The receptacles 134-136 can be located on the main unit 141, and / or on a user-relocatable remote unit 142 connected to the main unit 141 via data and power cable 144. This versatility enables users to power, monitor, and manage various portable devices as needed. Other embodiments include electrical receptacle styles common globally outside of North America.[000127] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of the software functions executed by the NAAS, detailing the flow of inputs, processing, and software-defined actions carried out by the system. To enable software intelligence and seamless interoperability, the main unit may integrate an Internet of Things (loT) compute and communication module 146, designed for broad integration across NAAS systems and nanogrid products. This module facilitates software- enabled functions 200 within the Energy Management System (EMS), Nanogrid Control System (NCS), and Appliance Management System (AMS), as well as connectivity and external communication capabilities.[000128] The system receives multiple inputs that inform its real-time operation and decision-making. It monitors the battery state 202 to assess charge levels, state of health, and readiness to provide backup power. It continuously monitors AC grid voltage(s) 204 to detect fluctuations, outages, or anomalies that may necessitate islanding or other protective actions. The system also incorporates user inputs 206, allowing occupants or administrators to configure preferences, control connected appliances, or manually trigger system functions. Additionally, the system collects environmental sensor data 208, which may include temperature, humidity, air quality, and other relevant metrics affecting system performance. It further gathers power and energy sensor data 210 from internal and external loads, ensuring real-time tracking of consumption, efficiency, and grid interaction. The system also performs continuous monitoring of overall system status 212 to track operational health and detect potential faults.[000129] Upon processing these inputs 234, the system executes a variety of software- defined actions. For example, it updates user interfaces 214, ensuring that real-time data and system insights are accessible through on-device displays, smartphones, and web applications. The system transmits telemetry 216, providing remote monitoring, diagnostics, and integration with cloud services or grid management platforms. It also stores power and energydata 218 for historical analysis and predictive optimization, and stores environmental data 220 to monitor trends that may affect appliance or system performance.[000130] In at least some embodiments, a critical control function of the NAAS is the operation of grid disconnect relays 222, allowing the system to transition between grid- connected and islanded modes based on grid conditions. Additionally, the system controls relays to connected appliances and devices 224, enabling intelligent load management and dynamic power adjustments. To further enhance power management, it modulates DCAC power 226 and modulates DCDC power 228, adjusting energy conversion based on demand, grid conditions, and available stored energy.[000131] For reliability and safety, the system can execute system tests 230, ensuring all components, including batteries, relays, and power electronics, operate within specified parameters. Finally, the system updates configuration settings 232, allowing for dynamic adaptation to changing conditions, user preferences, and software-defined optimization strategies.[000132] Together, these capabilities define a highly adaptable and intelligent nanogrid appliance system, capable of integrating with broader energy ecosystems while providing resilience, efficiency, and automation at the appliance level. Note that some embodiments of the NAAS may not include all of the above-described software functions, and some embodiments may include additional software implemented functions not mentioned above.[000133] FIG. 3 depicts several modules and connections on a printed circuit board (PCB) assembly implementing an 1OT compute and communication module 300 of the NAAS. The 1OT compute and communication module 300 may be an implementation of module 146 in FIG. 1. The 1OT compute and communication module 300 includes the main processing unit of the NAAS, e.g., the compute microcontroller 304, which controls the high-level functionality of the NAAS. In other embodiments, the main compute microcontroller 304 maybe supplemented or replaced by one or more other types(s) of processing unites], such as one or more programmable general-purpose microprocessors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), or the like, or any combination thereof.[000134] The loT and compute module 300 maybe an implementation of the loT compute and communication module 146 in FIG. 1, and is designed to support integration into various embodiments of a NAAS. This module 300 includes a PCB assembly (PCBA) which hosts a main compute microcontroller 304 to which various PCBA peripherals are connected, such as wireless modules 306-308, non-volatile memory equipment 310, and a real-time clock (RTC) module 312. By incorporating general purpose input / outputs (GPlOs) 314 and analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) 316, the main compute module microcontroller 304 is designed to receive input signals from environmental sensors 318 (such as thermistors and / or photoresistors), AC and DC voltage sensors 320 and current sensors 322 to measure power outputs, and other user inputs such as physical buttons 324. Additionally, the main compute microcontroller 304 is designed to control peripheral circuitry such as light emitting diode(s) (LEDs) indicators 326 and power relays 328-330 for energy management. The main compute microcontroller 304 is designed with various communication channels using protocols such as SP1, 12C, CAN, RS485, and / or USB for digital communication with other elements of the system, such as the remote unit controller 332, the DC-to-AC (DCAC) power converter 334, and general purpose USB peripherals 336.[000135] FIG. 4 depicts circuitry 400 including aspects of the logic power circuit architecture and AC voltage sensing circuitry of the NAAS with respect to the islanding capabilities enabled by the grid disconnect relay 408. Logic power to the circuitry 400, including the main compute, loT modules, and power conversion control circuitry, is selectively supplied by an AC-to-DC converter power supply 402 connected to the AC phase 404 and neutral 406 conductors on the upstream side (i.e. home, microgrid, grid side) of the onboard grid disconnect relay 408 to ensure the system’s logic power is up in all instances where it is supplied with AC input power. When AC input power is not available (such as during a home power outage), the system is designed to selectively source logic power from the onboard energy storage battery 410 via a dedicated DC-to-DC converter. The system is designed with AC voltage monitoring on both the upstream 412 and downstream side 414 of the grid disconnect relay to provide a differential signal which may be used to ascertain the AC voltage and frequency of the source input and nanogrid whether the grid disconnect relay is open or closed.[000136] Internet connectivity enables seamless receipt of over-the-air software and firmware updates, facilitating the addition of new software capabilities, thereby ensuring ongoing enhancement and adaptability within the installed application. Beyond software updates, the system integrates flexible power plus data input / output interfaces (e.g. USB) enabling the user to attach new hardware capabilities. In some embodiments targeting refrigerator / freezer applications, examples of such hardware add-ons include home air quality monitoring, communication modules to smart utility meters for comprehensive whole-home energy monitoring, provisions for DC solar photovoltaic inputs enabling solar charging from external solar panels, integration of a cellular LTE module ensuring dependable internetbackup during home internet unavailability, and a spectrum of additional enhancements poised for integration.Physical and Industrial Design:[000137] Figs. 5a through 5f shows front views 500-502, 562 and rearviews 504-506, 564 of some embodiments of the present disclosure targeted at refrigeration appliances detailing essential components including the main unit 508, optional environmental sensor package(s) 510-514, AC power cords 518-526, and a remote unit 528. The main unit 508 and remote unit 528 each feature robust enclosures, crafted from polymeric, metallic, or combined materials, housing critical internal components such as the battery module, battery management components, power conversion components, and internal compute and communication modules.[000138] The remote unit 528, a pivotal inclusion considering potential installation in less accessible locations, incorporates a user interface element 530 (e.g., display screen) and user- accessible power receptacles 532-540. The remote unit 528 may be mechanically affixed to the main unit 508 as shown in Fig. 5b, magnetically attached to the appliance (e.g., a refrigerator), secured to a wall, or otherwise positioned on and / or attached to surfaces such as kitchen counters, as illustrated by Fig. 8. Offering power receptacles (AC and DC) and user interface elements — such as LED indicators 542, a digital display, operational mode adjustment buttons 544, speakers, and environmental lighting — the remote unit is designed to blend aesthetically with the surrounding environment.[000139] A wired connection links the remote unit to the main unit 526, ensuring full user replaceability for effortless installation and service. This integrated cable includes power and data conductors — AC conductors (Line, Neutral, Ground) for the receptacles onboard the remote unit, serial data conductors (e.g., SP1, USB, CAN, or RS485) for communication and control of onboard user interfaces, and a DC conductor pair for logic power supply to user interfaces, compute on the remote unit, and low voltage DC receptacles (such as USB type A and USB type C) 536-538. In some embodiments, DC conductor pair(s) maybe omitted in favor of an additional AC-to-DC converter contained within the remote unit.[000140] In some embodiments, the remote unit integrates environmental sensors — temperature, humidity, air quality, and / or ambient light — dedicated to measuring ambient conditions near connected appliances. The optional environmental sensor units, when of a wired connection design 512, connect to accessible input jacks 552 located on the main unit or remote unit. Additionally, some embodiments of the system include accessible general usepower plus data receptacles 540 (e.g. USB) for the user to retrofit other sensors and radio modules 514 to extend functionality after installation.[000141] The system incorporates status indication mechanisms, combining LED indicators 542-544 and / or a screen 530. This display conveys diverse device statuses, including power states, operational modes, errors, grid status, battery charge level, power and energy consumption metrics, instantaneous power data (watts, volt-amperes, power factor, volts, current, frequency), energy statistics (watt-hours, volt-ampere-hours), temperature readings, environmental sensor outputs, internet connection status, wireless module connections, and estimated backup power duration.[000142] User-accessible buttons and switches are integrated to execute various functions — power control, ground fault circuit interruption (GFC1) test and reset 546, software reset, adjustment of LED and display settings — available on both the main and remote units in different embodiments. In some embodiments, a user-accessible interface to the overcurrent protection for the main AC input 554 is provided, which may be of a resettable thermal- magnetic style or cartridge fuse receptacle style.[000143] In some embodiments, the system incorporates an onboard user-accessible switch 548 to set a maximum continuous charge and / or discharge currents, aligning with common outlet and breaker specifications (e.g., 12 or 16A continuous for 15 or 20A outlet and breaker, respectively, which are common ratings for residential circuit-level protection in North America).[000144] Additionally, in some embodiments the system includes a switch to deactivate wireless internet connectivity 550 for users opting for an offline device usage, as well as an Ethernet RJ-45 port 552 for wired connection to the home LAN to supplement WiFi connectivity.[000145] The system includes various touch-safe external electrical ports / connectors (e.g., plugs and / or receptables) to connect the system to the grid / microgrid and to one or more supported appliances. For example, in some embodiments such as shown in FIG. 5a, to connect the system to the home’s AC electrical system (i.e. the line, neutral, and protective earth or ground AC conductors), a wired cable and connector assembly is provided for connection to a standard wall AC receptacle using an AC plug 518 connected via an electrical cable to a touchsafe plug 524 which plugs into a receptacle 534 on the main unit. In some embodiments, the system supports an additional cable and connector assembly with a standard AC receptacle 520 to connect a target appliance to the main unit via an additional dedicated AC receptacle 562 that is electrically connected to the nanogrid side of the system’s AC power system. In someembodiments of the disclosure, standard AC receptacle(s) are included on the main unit 558 for convenience and flexibility in connecting appliances. To facilitate maintenance, power cords 518-526 are designed in a detachable format, featuring connectors such as 1EC connector style, NEMA receptacle style, USB style, or other customized power and data connectors for service replacement. In some embodiments, a grounding screw terminal 556 is provided on the main unit for connection to the Protective Earthing (PE) system when the building’s AC receptacles do not provide a ground (PE) prong.[000146] In some embodiments, a pair of touch-safe electrical ports 560a- 560b used for connection of additional DC battery pack(s) and / or solar MPPT input are disposed on the exterior of the system’s enclosure, including at least positive and negative terminals. All of the power ports / terminals / connectors mentioned in this description can be said to be at least partially “included in” the system’s enclosure to the extent they each protrude from a surface of the enclosure or are positioned within an opening in a surface of the enclosure.[000147] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 6, the remote unit is equipped with features to assist with simple mounting of the remote unit to the main unit, to a magnetic surface, or to another non-magnetic surface. Some embodiments achieve this using permanent magnet(s) embedded in the remote unit 600 or in the remote unit and main unit 602, of sufficient strength to balance sturdy attachment with user removability. Some embodiments of the remote unit incorporate features 604 for mechanically interfacing with a post or wall- inserted fastener to facilitate fixing the remote unit to a non-magnetic surface such as a wall.[000148] The system is designed for user-friendly installation enabling installation by individuals without specialized expertise. This can be achieved using aforementioned simple plug-in connectors for the system, as shown by the example in FIGs. 7a and 7b. FIGs. 7a and 7b depict a system co-located with the primary associated AC appliance, highlighting features supporting ease of connecting power and signal connections. The AC power input to the system is supplied by a cord and plug 702 connected to a standard home AC receptacle. The AC connection from the system to a primary associated appliance may be provided via a cord and receptacle 704 to avoid the need for general use AC extension cords between this appliance and the system, as well as to allow flexible location of the system’s remote unit untethered to the AC power cord of a primary associated appliance. The optional wired environmental sensors are designed for similar ease of use with wired sensors 706 connected via unobtrusive cables and connectors 708 to the main unit. Environmental sensors of a wireless design 710 similarly enable ease of installation and offer an unobtrusive design.[000149] In some embodiments targeting refrigerator / freezer applications, the system is designed for flexibly locating the main unit proximate to the appliance, and for simple user- installed connections for AC supply power, AC power to the appliance, and optional environmental sensors, as shown by example in FIGs. 8a through 8d. This includes optimization of size, weight, center of gravity, and form for mounting on top of a refrigerator / freezer 802- 804 of various styles (e.g., side-by-side, top-freezer, French door, chest-style), optimization for mounting in a cabinet near the appliance 800, or wall-mounting 806. In each of these considered applications, the remote unit may be mechanically attached to the main unit, to a magnetic surface (e.g., the metallic body of the appliance), or to a non-magnetic surface (e.g., a wall) based on the user’s preference for access.Power and Energy Specifications and Architecture:[000150] The power architecture design of the system allows for flexible, software-defined modes of supplying power to connected appliances and devices, charging or discharging the onboard storage battery, and / or sourcing or sinking power to connected add-on power modules. Depending on the embodiment and driven by the intended type of primary associated appliance, the system’s power architecture can have any of various forms, such as architectures 900-908 and 978 in Figs. 9a-9f which utilize common elements distributed between the main unit 910a-f and remote unit 912a-d.[000151] The main unit 910a hosts a rechargeable battery pack 914, such as Lithium-ion cells, for bulk energy storage and serving as a primary source to power the system itself and connected devices in the event of an outage of grid / microgrid power 916. This battery's capacity is designed to maintain a manageable weight and size, facilitating easy installation in close proximity to the appliance. Additionally, the battery's capacity is tailored to provide several hours or more of backup power to protect against severe power outages. In some embodiments targeting refrigerator / freezer applications, the main unit battery usable energy capacity is between 1-3.5 kilowatt-hours (kWh). Battery capacity may vary across different embodiments to suit each specific appliance-integration application, and maybe supplemented by add-on battery module(s) 942, 944b; 980.[000152] The main unit 910a-d; 910f includes a main DC-to-AC (DCAC) power converter (also called simply “DCAC”) 918a-d, respectively, capable of converting DC power from nanogrid sources (such as the onboard battery and / or connected DC sources such as external solar photovoltaic panels) to AC power connected appliances 924a-b, 924f via the onboard AC output receptacles 926-928. In some embodiments’ designs illustrated by 900-904, the mainDCAC 918a-d is capable of operating in parallel with the voltage source connected to its AC power input 930 via the home AC receptacle, allowing for optional power export to the home and / or home microgrid. In some embodiments of units 900-904, the main DCAC 918a-d is bidirectional (i.e. designed to route current and convert power in both directions: AC-to-DC and DC-to-AC) to achieve also efficient charging of the onboard storage battery 914. The bidirectional main DCAC 918a-d is also designed as a "hybrid” inverter (sometimes referred to as ‘multimode’ design) which can operate in both grid-forming (voltage-forming) and gridfollowing (voltage-following current source) modes.[000153] Isolation of the bidirectional hybrid main DCAC output from the main AC input for intentional islanding and safety purposes is managed by a software-controllable grid disconnect relay (power relay) 932a-c, 932f. An additional software-controlled AC relay 934 enables the AC power connected appliances 924a-b, 924f to be connected to the output of the main DCAC when power is unavailable from the grid AC input and adds redundancy for AC isolation between the main DCAC and grid AC input. AC relays may be of a single-pole / single- throw (SPST) design to disconnect the line conductor, or double-pole / single-throw (DPST) design to simultaneously disconnect line and neutral conductors.[000154] In some embodiments, illustrated by Fig. 9d, a power architecture for equivalent functionality 906 is used wherein one DCAC converter 918d is used to source AC voltage to supply connected AC loads, and an additional DCAC converter 920 is used to convert AC voltage to DC voltage to support the intermediate DC bus (e.g., to charge the onboard battery from home / grid power). In such embodiments a SPDT or DPDT relay 936 is used to switch the line, or line and neutral conductors, respectively, of connected AC loads between the main AC input (i.e. home / grid AC) or the onboard DCAC output. This architecture allows efficient power of AC appliances during normal grid-connected operation by minimizing power conversion steps. In some embodiments of the NAAS, illustrated by Fig. 9f, an AC load bypass switch 982 is used to optionally shift the AC load connection between either side of the DCAC’s onboard grid disconnect relay 932f. This design ensures connected AC loads can receive power from the nanogrid’s AC input connection (e.g. from a wall receptacle) even under scenarios where the DCAC onboard grid disconnect relay remains open (e.g. due to a fault scenario).[000155] To power connected AC appliances, the main DCAC 918a-d is capable of generating AC output voltage replicating the premises’ grid / microgrid voltages. In North American residences this is nominally 110-120 AC volts root-mean-squared (V RMS), and in other global markets it is 230-240 VAC RMS. In embodiments targeting refrigerator / freezer applications, the main DCAC outputs single-phase power (e.g. 110-120 VAC L-N, 230-240 VACL-N) to match the AC input of a refrigeration appliance. However, other embodiments use a DCAC designed to supply split-phase AC power (e.g. 120 / 240 VAC L-N-L) with appropriate power receptacles for this output voltage. In some embodiments the bidirectional DCAC is designed to have a full-bridge, half-bridge, H-bridge, or multilevel converter topology. The DCDC converter(s) maybe of an isolated, non-isolated, resonant, boost, or boost-buck topology design. DCAC and DCDC power conversion circuitry uses solid state switching technology, with some embodiments utilizing one or a combination of Silicon Carbide (SiC) MOSFET or 1GBT technology.[000156] The AC power architecture is designed for optimal efficiency in powering appliances connected to the system. Connected appliances are supplied with power from the AC current generated by the system’s DCAC in either a grid-following mode or grid-forming mode during outages or to minimize power draw from the grid / microgrid. These appliances can also be supplied directly from the grid's AC current without passing through power conversion, to minimize conversion losses during normal grid connected operation. These appliances can also be supplied from a combination of both grid current and current from the DCAC in a grid-following mode. Notably, the design allows for simultaneous operation of appliances and charging of the onboard battery, showcasing the efficiency and dual functionality embedded within the internal AC power architecture. More, in the event of a device failure impeding energy management or nanogrid control functions such as backup power, the power architecture is designed to automatically ensure AC appliances and loads receive power from the utility grid source via the position of internal power relays and reserve capacitive energy storage to drive these relays, ensuring uninterrupted operation of connected AC appliances.[000157] The main DCAC's power output is designed to accommodate the running-load- amps (RLA) of the primary associated appliance plus additional power capacity for user- connected devices. The DCAC's power conversion controls are adept at managing inrush current during turn-on of inductive loads (e.g., compressors, motors) without causing overloading of the battery or power conversion circuitry. The power output adheres to residential circuit and receptacle standards, for example, in embodiments targeting refrigerator / freezer applications providing between 1500-2400 watts continuous AC output power with short-duration surge capacity of 3600-7800 watts.[000158] The system includes a DC bus architecture designed to support flexibility of connected DC sources, enabling users to add-on DC power modules. The power architecture includes a common intermediate DC bus 938 on which a variable number of DC sources canconnect in parallel to exchange DC power and connect with the DC input to the main DCAC. In some embodiments, DC sources include the onboard battery 914 and its bidirectional DCDC 940, external DC battery pack(s) and their bidirectional DCDC 946a-b to increase the energy storage capacity of the nanogrid, and / or solar photovoltaic (TV) modules 948 and an associated boost DCDC 950a-b, 950f. In some embodiments for cost optimization of the main unit, solar PV module(s) are designed to connect to the main unit’s common DC bus by means of an external converter 954 to perform DC boost and maximum power point tracking (MPPT) thus providing a regulated DC input into the main unit. In other embodiments for user simplicity, the main unit hosts onboard solar PV MPPT DCDC power conversion 950b such that a simple solar panel, or string of solar panels, 948 between 12-48 V DC may be user-connected without need for external solar power conversion modules. Similarly, the power architecture to support add-on battery storage may be designed either to host a bidirectional DCDC 946b onboard the main unit to which an external low voltage battery and BMS 944b, 944f may be connected, or an add-on battery storage module 942, 980 may be designed encompassing a BMS plus battery 944a, and bidirectional DCDC converter 946a. DCDCs capable of sourcing current onto the common intermediate DC bus are designed to operate via voltage droop coordination or via a high-speed digital communication link (e.g., CAN or other serial communication to DCDC controllers) to achieve a common output voltage on the common intermediate bus. Connection of external DC sources is made by dedicated DC connector receptacles 952a-g on the main unit.[000159] Battery charging and discharge rate is controlled by onboard Energy Management System (EMS) and Battery Management System (BMS) software, which interact with onboard Appliance Management System (AMS) and Nanogrid Control System (NCS) software.[000160] The AC power architecture is designed for optimal awareness and management of connected appliances. To enable power and energy management, the power architecture incorporates power metering at various points to generate a complete and accurate picture of energy use, including voltage (V), frequency (Hz), current (A), real power and energy (W, Wh), apparent power and energy (VA, Vah), and reactive power and energy (VAr, VArh). For the purposes of current sensing, the system uses one or a combination of sensor technologies such as inductive current transformers (CTs), shunts, or hall-effect sensors. The AC receptacles are designed to monitor power using dedicated current sensors 960a-d, 960f for each receptacle, to provide the system and user information about consumption of these AC appliances. In some embodiments, the main AC input is metered 962 for accurate measurements of total power andenergy import and export from the device to the home / microgrid. In some embodiments, the system directly meters the AC output power from the main DCAC 964 and AC input to the charger DCAC 966 for similar purposes of constructing complete and accurate AC power flows. [000161] The system similarly is designed to meter power and energy of DC nodes to facilitate building a complete view of power flow throughout the NAAS. DC metering locations include metering of the input / output of the main storage battery 968, metering of input / output of add-on DC sources 970a-c, 970f, and metering 972a-c, 972f of DC device power receptacles 974a-d, 974f. In some embodiments, the system infers DC power consumption via USB-PD circuitry without need for additional dedicated voltage and current sensing for these receptacles.[000162] To enable the power and management features within the NAAS and its connected devices, software-controllable AC relays 956a-c, 956f allow the system to selectively route power at the granularity of each AC receptacle, or group of AC receptacles 926-928 supplying power to downstream appliances and devices. Power management to user- connected DC devices is similarly capable via the system’s power architecture, such as by incorporating DCDC converters 976a-c, 976f and DCAC converters 978 to selectively manage voltage and current delivery on DC device power receptacles. In some embodiments, such a DCDC or DCAC converter (i.e. rectifier) is dedicated to each DC device power receptacle for maximum granularity of control, while other embodiments incorporate multiple DC device power receptacles per converter. In some embodiments, further efficiency is achieved by avoiding DCAC rectifiers supplying DC device power receptacles, by ensuring all DC device power receptacles are supplied via a DCDC converter connected to the common intermediate bus. For example, this maybe achieved by a DC conductor pair 980 routed to a remote unit that is sized for appropriate current carrying capacity for DC device power receptacles on the remote unit.[000163] The system prioritizes safety as a foundational element of its design. Embedded within the battery system are robust safety mechanisms ensuring safe operation and compliance with stringent industry standards. Multiple layers of protection, including hardware and software overcurrent protection (such as via a combination of fuse(s), thermal fuse(s), resettable thermal-magnetic circuit breaker(s), and active software current monitoring), temperature monitoring, and short-circuit prevention, mitigate potential hazards or risks associated with battery operation. Furthermore, compliance with industry standards and regulations is integral to the system's design. Stringent adherence to safety certifications and standards ensures the system's reliability, safety, and compatibility with establishedindustry benchmarks. Rigorous testing and adherence to safety protocols have been integrated into the system's development process, ensuring user safety and peace of mind. These safety mechanisms and compliance measures collectively underscore the NAAS system's commitment to safe and reliable operation, adhering to industry best practices and ensuring user safety at its core.[000164] To further enhance user safety, in embodiments targeting refrigerator / freezer applications, AC outlets 928 are equipped with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFC1), also known as a Residual Current Detector (RCD) protection following industry best practices to minimize risk of electric shock to persons in wet locations such as kitchens. The GFC1 feature includes a user-friendly indication 542 and reset interface 546, conveniently located on accessible components such as the remote unit. Additionally, the unit incorporates circuitry and logic to detect its grounding status (i.e. connection of the protective earth conductor to the main AC input), ensuring grounding safety measures are maintained in both grid-connected and grid-disconnected states.Backup power and nanogrid intentional islanding:[000165] The system is capable of seamlessly delivering backup power during grid power outages and protecting against potential grid anomalies (e.g. sustained overvoltage and undervoltage) that may pose performance and longevity risks to connected essential appliances. The system continuously monitors the grid's AC voltage and frequency at its AC power input 930 connected to the home power receptacle, ensuring prompt and autonomous response to any power disturbances.[000166] Grid disconnection and reconnection are software-controlled, allowing adjustable logic for timing and sensitivity to disturbances through software programming. An example of a logic flow 1000 for implementing such software control is shown in FIG. 10. The system continuously monitors grid voltage and frequency 1004 at its AC input, ensuring realtime awareness of grid conditions. If the system detects a grid anomaly or receives an intentional islanding command 1006, it evaluates whether the nanogrid system is ready to grid-form 1008. If the system is determined to be ready to grid-form, it opens the grid disconnect relay and begins grid-forming 1010, transitioning into the off-grid state 1012, in which the system supplies power independently from its onboard energy storage and generation resources.[000167] If the system is not ready to grid-form at 1008, it remains in the grid-connected state 1002, continuing to monitor grid conditions. Once the grid voltage is restored 1014, thesystem enters a requalification phase where it qualifies the grid over a software-defined time interval 1016. If the grid fails to meet the required stability criteria, the system remains in an off-grid state. However, if the grid conditions pass the qualification test, the system proceeds to synchronize to grid voltage 1018, ensuring a smooth transition back to grid operation.[000168] After synchronization, the system closes the grid disconnect relay and begins grid-following 1020, transitioning back to the grid-connected state 1002. This logic ensures safe and automatic reconnection to the utility grid while maintaining continuous power delivery to essential appliances.[000169] Upon grid disconnection, the system engages a grid-forming (voltage-forming) mode, supplying seamless backup power to its AC output receptacles 926-928 while also maintaining power on DC outputs 974a-d, 974f, ensuring continued operation of critical devices. The nanogrid's Energy Management System (EMS) actively manages power during backup, limiting power to preserve battery energy and constraining total power draw within set limits. This intelligent transition between grid-tied and off-grid operation ensures resilience, energy stability, and enhanced control over backup power availability.[000170] The system offers software-controllable AC power relays 956a-c and software- controllable DC outputs 976a-c to manage connected loads, allowing selectively stopping power output to specific receptacles or reducing power to DC outlets via USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) control. AC power relays may be of solid state or electromechanical design in various embodiments. When the onboard battery reaches a critical low state of energy, the system safeguards against over-discharge by ceasing power delivery to receptacles and shutting down non-essential peripherals.[000171] Upon detecting the return of grid / microgrid voltage, the system monitors and qualifies the voltage and frequency conditions before seamlessly and automatically reconnecting by closing the grid disconnect relay.[000172] To maintain sufficient stored battery energy for backup power, the system allows users to define a reserve level of battery State of Energy (SOE). This reserve ensures that a predetermined percentage of battery capacity remains dedicated to backup power. Onboard intelligence allows the system to alert users of outage scenarios through onboard indicators and companion smartphone and web applications. This combination of hardware and software intelligence enables the system to deliver reliable and user-friendly backup power functionality.Energy Saving Functionality for Refrigeration Appliances:[000173] In some embodiments designed to pair alongside a refrigerator / freezer appliance with optional user-installed environmental sensors for monitoring internal temperature and door-state, the system includes Energy Saving functionality. This functionality can operate through software logic 1100-1102 to continuously monitor appliance conditions and optimize power delivery using active controls. An example of the Energy Saving functionality for refrigeration appliances, as shown in FIGs. Ila and 11b, is designed to reduce the energy consumption of the refrigeration appliance below its typical baseline, aiming to extend the battery backup duration during power outages and to optimize energy cost while grid-connected, while striving to maintain temperature internal to the refrigerator and / or freezer within specified limits. This mode can be user-set via onboard interface or companion applications.[000174] FIG. Ila describes a logic flow 1100 where the system first considers whether Energy Saving Mode is set to active 1104. If Energy Saving Mode is not set to active, the system maintains delivery of power to the refrigeration appliances 1118, such as through power relay control or direct communication with the appliance. If Energy Saving Mode is active, the system continuously checks whether the battery state of energy (SOE) is greater than a software- defined minimum setting 1106. If the battery SOE is insufficient, the system maintains delivery of power to the refrigeration appliances 1118. Otherwise, the system checks if the refrigerator or freezer temperature is below a defined set point 1108. If the refrigerator or freezer temperature is not below the defined set point , power to the appliance remains on. If the temperature is below the set point, the system further checks whether the refrigerator has met its minimum run time 1110 when in the ON state. If the minimum run time has been met, the system limits power to the refrigeration appliance 1112, such as by opening a software- controlled power relay, thereby reducing energy consumption to preserve battery charge level. If the minimum run time has not been met, power remains on to prevent short-cycling of compressors. If power to the refrigerator is OFF, the system checks if the minimum OFF time has been met 1116. If the minimum OFF time has not yet been met, power remains OFF. If the minimum OFF time has been met, the system evaluates whether the refrigerator door(s) have been opened 1114. If the door has been opened, power is restored to maintain cooling performance and power active user interfaces of the appliance such as internal lighting and control panels. While the door(s) remains closed, the system repeats the evaluation cycle, waiting to restore power to the connected refrigeration appliance until one of the battery SOE, temperature set point, mode settings, minimum on / off timers, or door state(s) have changed.[000175] FIG. 11b expands on the system’s ability to intelligently manage refrigeration loads without requiring external environmental sensors 1102, according to at least some embodiments. The system continuously monitors ambient temperature, power consumption, and running duty cycle 1136, developing and refining a software model for how the appliance operates under various conditions. Additionally, it can take in user inputs such as temperature set points, appliance make and model, and other metadata 1138 to refine its operation. This data is used to generate a software-defined thermal performance model of the refrigeration appliance 1140, allowing the system to predict its behavior. If Energy Saving Mode is active 1120, the system evaluates whether the battery SOE is above the minimum setting 1122. If the battery SOE is not above the minimum setting, the system maintains delivery of power to the refrigeration appliances 1134. If the battery SOE is sufficient, the system proceeds to evaluate the appliance's thermal model to estimate internal temperatures 1124. If the model suggests that internal temperatures remain within defined limits 1126, the system continues energysaving operation (i.e. limiting power delivery to the appliance). If the temperatures are outside the limits, the system restores power to maintain normal cooling performance. The system then follows a sequence similar to FIG. Ila, ensuring the refrigerator remains powered OFF when appropriate by checking if the minimum OFF time has been met 1132 and evaluating whether the minimum run time has been met 1128 when the state is ON. If the minimum run time has been satisfied, the system updates the state to power the refrigerator OFF 1130, extending battery runtime and optimizing energy use.[000176] By dynamically managing power delivery to refrigeration appliances, the system provides extended battery backup duration while maintaining food safety and efficient operation. The ability to intelligently monitor energy consumption, environmental conditions, and user-defined parameters allows the system to integrate seamlessly within a broader energy management strategy, reducing costs and improving energy efficiency.[000177] To implement this functionality, the system relies on real-time awareness of the connected refrigeration appliance. Utilizing a combination of sensors directly measuring appliance power consumption, temperature internal and / or external to the refrigerator / freezer, light illuminance sensor(s), and other environmental sensors, the system constructs a dynamic software model based on pre-programmed heuristics and learned patterns specific to each connected refrigeration appliance. The control logic then employs various strategies to reduce power draw, including selectively isolating input power to the refrigeration appliance, modulating output AC voltage / frequency of the DCAC converter 918a- d, 918f, and engaging direct digital communication with loT-enabled refrigeration appliancesto enter a manufacturer-defined lower power mode, pause the compressor, reduce compressor speed, and / or skip active defrost cycles. In embodiments targeting refrigeration appliances, Energy Saving software logic 1100 is included and designed to operate effectively when the optional external environmental sensors are used , and Energy Saving software logic 1102 is included and designed to operate when environmental sensors are not present and only power monitoring is available .[000178] Power disconnection to the refrigeration appliance is executed through a dedicated onboard AC relay 926, selectively turning off the connected refrigeration appliance while still optionally providing power to other AC and DC receptacles 928, 974a-d, 974f. During the energy-saving mode, the system automatically restores power 1206 if temperature 1202 inside the refrigerator / freezer exceeds a defined limit or when user interaction is detected.[000179] In embodiments of a NAAS paired with a refrigeration appliance, user presence or interaction with the refrigeration appliance is inferred by the system through a combination of temperature, light, door state, and / or proximity sensors connected to the system, facilitating automatic power restoration. To optimize appliance integration, the system’s onboard software can be programmed to follow “minimum off time” heuristics to allow pressure equalization within the refrigeration loop, and / or “minimum run time” heuristics for the connected appliance as part of energy management algorithms.[000180] In certain embodiments, the system includes a user-configurable hardware interface, such as a user-accessible dry contact style control relay input which may be user- connected to a refrigeration appliance’s serviceable control circuitry. When utilized, this control interface and control method allow the refrigerator / freezer to skip or delay automatic defrost cycles, achieving more nuanced power and energy reductions without fully powering off the refrigeration appliance. This innovative Energy Saving functionality enhances the overall efficiency and adaptability of the system in conjunction with refrigeration appliances.[000181] Fig. 12 illustrates an example of the operation of the system in the Energy Savings mode wherein internal freezer temperature is temporarily allowed to rise to 15 degrees Fahrenheit 1202 above the native freezer setpoint of 0 degrees Fahrenheit 1206. Once temperature reaches the Energy Savings maximum setpoint, power is restored to the appliance to allow it to cool the internal temperature to 5 degrees Fahrenheit, thus achieving lower energy consumption primarily by increasing the effective duty cycle 1206 of the refrigeration componentry compared to the baseline always-powered duty cycle 1208.Communication and interoperability:[000182] The NAAS system not only provides enhanced power and energy management but also offers comprehensive connectivity features, making it an integral component of smart home ecosystems. The system provides versatile connectivity options designed to ensure seamless integration within smart home and Internet of Things (loT) ecosystems. By using built-in IEEE 802.11 Wi-Fi connectivity (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), for example, the device establishes a connection to the home local area network (LAN) internet while concurrently serving as a Wi-Fi access point. This dual functionality enables direct smartphone / tablet connectivity for monitoring, control, and setup purposes. In some embodiments, Bluetooth may complement the connectivity options offering an alternative direct connection method for proximate smartphone / tablet interaction. In some embodiments, the system includes an onboard Thread radio for participation within a home Thread mesh network for communication with one or more NAAS and loT devices within the home for increased awareness of the home ecosystem. [000183] For remote user monitoring and control, the system interfaces with a dedicated smartphone / tablet application or facilitates access via a web browser on the home LAN. In some embodiments the system includes integrated (or supports add-on) modules to support additional wireless technologies such as IEEE 802.15 Zigbee (for interaction with Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), loT devices, and / or utility smart meters), IEEE 802.15.4 Thread (for communication with other loT and smart home devices), or cellular (for internet connectivity in the absence of home Wi-Fi / LAN).[000184] The loT compute and communication module includes local control capabilities, incorporating an API designed for seamless data exchange with various home energy management systems (HEMS), smart home platforms, and microgrid control systems (MCS). Furthermore, the system’s advanced features enable intelligent utilization of nanogrid capabilities (comprising energy storage, power conversion, and load management) to provide support to the wider home microgrid and utility grid. This functionality encompasses configurable "smart inverter features" to maintain microgrid / grid stability, responding to either direct power measurements or external commands, such as frequency-watt control for dynamic adjustment of power consumption / export or reactive power compensation based on voltage and frequency measurements, thereby supporting grid stability.[000185] For added appliance insight, the system includes the capability to communicate directly to smart appliances to offer additional appliance insight via appliance operating status and / or direct measurement from the appliance itself, such as power and temperature signals. The system is designed to offer common smart appliance loT communication methods such as Wi-Fi and Matter, as well as emergent standards such as CTA-2045 and Matter.Other software-defined features:[000186] FIG. 13 illustrates an example of the Early Failure Prediction Algorithm 1300, which can be implemented by the Appliance Management System (AMS) to continuously monitor appliance health and detect potential failures before they occur. This process leverages real-time sensor data, historical appliance performance models, and statistical analysis to assess deviations in appliance behavior, and provides users with valuable performance data and insights in real time and as historical data. These algorithms, incorporating lightweight Machine Learning (ML) and statistical analysis techniques, proactively and continually assess appliance health, alerting users to potential risks of failure before any complete or partial malfunction occurs.[000187] The process begins when abnormality detection is active for a connected appliance 1302, enabling continuous monitoring of performance metrics. The system then monitors real-time temperature(s), power, and voltage characteristics 1304 to detect any deviations from expected operating conditions. If the system identifies that any value(s) are out of the acceptable range 1306, it notifies the user 1308, alerting them to a potential issue. This notification may be sent through a connected user interface, such as a mobile application, email or web dashboard, and / or via the on-device user interface (e.g. the display screen).[000188] If no immediate anomalies are detected, the system incorporates the collected data into a historical appliance model 1310 stored on the nanogrid system’s memory and in the connected cloud software platform, allowing for ongoing refinement of expected appliance behavior. The system then evaluates the appliance’s performance data using a statistical model 1312, identifying long-term trends that may indicate wear or degradation. If the system determines that a statistical anomaly or drift has been observed 1314, such as unexpected energy consumption increases, temperature variations, or voltage instabilities, it once again notifies the user 1308 to prompt action before a failure occurs.[000189] The ability to proactively identify potential appliance failures before they occur significantly enhances system reliability and user awareness. This feature enables predictive maintenance, allowing users to take corrective actions before costly breakdowns or energy inefficiencies arise. By continuously refining its statistical models using real-time and historical data, the system ensures high accuracy in detecting abnormal appliance behavior, ultimately extending appliance lifespan and improving energy efficiency.[000190] The Appliance Management System further harnesses real-time environmental sensing data and power data to deliver specific functionalities, including "Door OpenDetection" and "High Internal Temperature Detection." These features ensure users are promptly informed of any issues that could compromise the performance of the connected refrigeration appliance.[000191] The generated insights are presented to users through various channels, including visual or auditory notifications on the system itself, as well as through mobile text messages, email, or the companion smartphone application. In the context of a refrigerator / freezer pairing, these insights might include, for example:"Has someone left the fridge door open?""Is the compressor likely to fail soon?""Is the fridge operating less efficiently compared to others?""Is there an issue with the defrost cycle?""Is there an anomaly with your home wiring, risking property damage?"[000192] The companion smartphone and web application primary function is to allow users to continually monitor the operating status of the system and the status of plugged-in connected appliances, with user-friendly data streams displaying real-time power, temperature, and other environmental sensor data, as well as measurements plotted over user- definable time periods. These applications also allow users to setup and configure the system’s settings, connectivity, and to troubleshoot.[000193] The AMS software collaborates with the Energy Management System (EMS) software within the system. Beyond its role in managing connections to the home / microgrid, the EMS software integrates data on power sources and connected plug loads to optimize power usage within the system’s nanogrid based on settings and user preferences.[000194] One example of an EMS software feature is the "Clean Power Mode." In conjunction with onsite solar capabilities, the EMS can be programmed to prioritize the use of onsite (i.e. behind-the-meter) “AC-coupled” solar power (e.g. a fixed rooftop solar system that includes solar photovoltaic panels and inverters or microinverters) and / or direct DC- connected solar PV modules (e.g. connected directly to the NAAS system) to mitigate energy costs from the grid and reduce the carbon impact of refrigeration appliances. FIG. 14a and FIG. 14b illustrate the decision-making process used by the Energy Management System (EMS) to optimize appliance power sourcing and battery charging when Clean Power Mode is active. This mode enables prioritization of cheap, renewable energy sources, including AC-coupled solar power and DC-coupled nanogrid solar power, to reduce dependence on grid electricity and enhance the efficiency of energy storage and appliance operation.[000195] In FIG. 14a, the process 1400 begins when Clean Power Mode is active and the nanogrid is connected to its primary AC power source (i.e. the home’s electrical system via a wall receptacle) 1404. The system first checks whether the available AC-coupled solar PV power exceeds the appliance’s running power draw 1406. If sufficient solar power is available, the system evaluates whether net solar PV export to the Area Power System (APS), i.e. from the home to the utility grid through the utility meter, is occurring, meaning that total solar production exceeds total home load 1408. If this condition is met, the system actively routes power to supply the appliance from grid power and uses the excess solar power to charge the NAAS battery 1410. If net solar export is not occurring, the appliance continues drawing power from the grid, but battery charging remains disabled 1412. If at 1406 the available solar PV power does not exceed the appliance’s demand, the system checks whether the battery state of energy (SOE) is above the minimum backup reserve setting 1414. If the battery has adequate energy reserves, the appliance is supplied by the nanogrid battery 1416; otherwise, power continues to be drawn from the grid. This analysis is continued by the NAAS software system and updated at regular intervals to adjust to changing solar production conditions.[000196] FIG. 14b shows a decision-making process 1402 that includes nanogrid DC- coupled solar power (i.e. directly connected to the nanogrid) and microgrid AC-coupled solar power. When Clean Power Mode is active and the grid is connected 1418, the system first checks if available nanogrid DC-coupled solar power is sufficient to meet the appliance’s power demand 1420. If available nanogrid DC-coupled solar power is sufficient to meet the appliance’s power demand , the appliance is powered directly by nanogrid solar 1422. If available nanogrid DC-coupled solar power is not sufficient to meet the appliance’s power demand , the system checks whether the battery SOE is above the minimum backup reserve setting 1424. If so, the appliance is powered by the nanogrid battery, with any available nanogrid solar contributing as well 1426.[000197] If the battery reserve is insufficient, the system evaluates whether available microgrid AC-coupled solar power can meet the appliance’s running power demand 1428. If this condition is met, the appliance is powered by microgrid solar, supplemented by nanogrid solar if available 1430. If the condition in 1428 is not met, the system assesses whether the home is exporting net solar power to the utility grid 1432. If the home is exporting excess solar power, the appliance is powered by microgrid solar, and any excess solar power is used to charge the battery 1434. If no excess solar power is available, the appliance draws power from the grid, and battery charging remains disabled 1436.[000198] This Clean Power Mode logic ensures that the appliance preferentially uses available solar power, optimizes battery charging based on real-time solar production and energy reserves, and reduces reliance on grid electricity, thereby lowering energy costs and carbon footprint. The system continually re-evaluates these conditions to dynamically adjust power sourcing as energy availability changes.[000199] Within a nanogrid as described herein, connected appliances, and DC sources, the EMS undertakes several functions, including battery power dispatch, disaggregated appliance-level power and energy usage monitoring, and grid / microgrid support. The EMS can autonomously respond to voltage, frequency, and power factor measurements at the input AC connection, modifying the performance of the onboard power conversion (e.g., charge / discharge rate) or connecting / disconnecting power to appliances to stabilize the power input.[000200] In scenarios involving a larger home microgrid with voltage and current sources provided by a combination of whole-home energy storage systems, solar PV, and / or standby generators, the system's Nanogrid Control System software seamlessly integrates and coordinates with the Microgrid Control System (MCS) and / or Home Energy Management System (HEMS) to optimize overall microgrid performance. FIG. 15 illustrates an example of the software functions 1500 executed by the system to enable intelligent energy management, microgrid coordination, and real-time control of power sources and loads.[000201] At the input level, the system is designed to communicate with HEMS / Microgrid Control System 1504, ensuring interoperability and data exchange for coordinated energy management. It continuously monitors AC voltage and frequency at input 1506, assessing grid stability and identifying when to disconnect, modulate, or adjust power flows. To further enhance appliance-specific energy control, the system checks appliance states and environmental sensors 1508, allowing it to tailor energy delivery based on operational conditions. The system also receives inputs from the user 1510, enabling manual control over power settings, preferences, and operational modes.[000202] For real-time power management and analytics, the system collects power / energy sensor data 1512, tracking consumption, energy storage levels, and load behavior. Additionally, it continuously monitors system status 1514, ensuring safe operation, fault detection, and performance optimization. To maintain configuration integrity, the system loads programmed configuration parameters 1516, applying predefined rules and logic to guide energy storage, load management, and grid interaction.[000203] Upon processing this information 1502, the system executes various software- defined actions to optimize energy use. It actively charges the energy storage battery 1518 when excess power is available, whether from solar PV, the grid, or other energy sources. When needed, it discharges the energy storage battery 1520 to power connected loads or export energy to the microgrid. The system intelligently supplies connected AC loads from onboard sources 1522, ensuring backup power availability during outages or peak demand periods, and can alternatively supply connected AC loads from the main AC input (i.e., home power) 1524 when the grid is available and optimal for load supply.[000204] A critical function of the system is to control grid disconnect relay(s) 1526, allowing it to island from the grid when necessary, ensuring seamless transitions between grid- tied and off-grid operation. Additionally, it manages power to connected AC or DC appliances / devices 1528, optimizing their performance, efficiency, and longevity through intelligent load prioritization.[000205] User interaction and control interfaces are updated dynamically through the system’s ability to update user interface(s) 1530, reflecting real-time energy data, appliance performance, and operational insights on local and remote interfaces. The system also ensures adaptability by updating configuration settings 1532, adjusting operational parameters based on new data, user preferences, or external control signals.[000206] To continuously refine energy management strategies, the system refines software-defined models 1534, incorporating real-time operational data to enhance predictive algorithms and improve efficiency. Finally, it communicates with HEMS / Microgrid Control System 1536 to ensure coordinated energy dispatch, load balancing, and participation in larger-scale energy management strategies.[000207] The NAAS system’s EMS is designed with coordination capabilities, facilitating interaction with a utility grid via control signals provided by an aggregator, thereby providing direct control over Virtual Power Plant (VPP) and Demand Response (DR) functionalities to support grid stability. Through seamless communication, intelligent control, and predictive optimization, the system delivers advanced energy resilience and enhances the performance of modern microgrid ecosystems.Pairing the System with an Appliance[000208] In some embodiments, as illustrated by FIG. 16, the system is designed for direct mechanical, electrical and digital coupling with specific home appliances. Note that the specific appliances depicted in FIG. 16 are provided only as examples. Modifications may be made tothe pairing system, such as to the attachment locations on the appliance, attachment types (e.g., bolt, screw, magnetic coupling, rivets, welds, adhesives, dowel pins, snap fits, slots, etc.) and packaging form factor of the attaching nanogrid system. Integration of this style confers backup power, additional data insights, energy management, integration and participation with home or building and utility grid, while improving space efficiency and installation ease of the combined devices for users, while also enabling direct digital data exchange between the nanogrid system and appliance’s native monitoring and control system.[000209] In these embodiments designed for specific appliance coupling, the system is designed specifically for ease of attachment, removal and / or replacement, such as for service and repairs. This is achieved by thoughtful mounting location, touch-safe enclosure design, a system of electrical wire connectors, and a mechanical fastening technique that allows the system to be easily removed and restored.[000210] In these embodiments designed for specific appliance coupling, effective mechanical coupling with the appliance can be achieved by designing this system with a standard mounting hardware configuration to match mounting interfaces provided on the appliance, as shown in FIG. 17. In some embodiments, the location and sizing of the mounting hardware may be specific to different brands or models of appliance, for example, to attach with existing hardware of the appliance. In some embodiments, appliances will be designed with recesses or slots to accommodate nanogrid systems, for example, such that the nanogrid system can slide into and lock within an opening of the appliance enclosure providing physical and electrical connection. In some embodiments, a retrofit system may be attached to the appliance such as via semi-permanent adhesives or existing attachment locations of the appliance, with carriages or mounting systems {e.g., slotted, etc.) for the nanogrid system attached to the appliance.[000211] In an embodiment such as depicted in FIG. 17, the system includes flanged surface(s) 1702 with through-hole mounting features 1704. In some embodiments, one or more keyhole mounting features 1706 are included in the design to facilitate installation and removal. The system is designed to allow operation in any x-y-z mounting orientation to allow flexible integration on the exterior chassis or within a home appliance. The mounting system includes provisions to reduce effects of noise, vibration, and mechanical shock while preserving robust physical attachment. In some embodiments this is achieved by a system of elastomeric {e.g. rubber) planes 1708 and / or washers integrated in between the appliance chassis and chassis of the nanogrid system.[000212] In these embodiments designed for specific appliance coupling, effective electrical coupling with the appliance is achieved by inclusion of one or more systems of electrical wiring harness(es) and connector(s) between the coupled appliance and nanogrid system, such as shown in FIG. 18. Such wiring harnesses are designed at minimum to provide electrical continuity between the AC input to the appliance {e.g. phase conductors, a neutral conductor, and a protective earth conductor) and the nanogrid device 1802 to which an AC power cord 1804 provides electrical connection to the building’s power receptacle 1806. In some embodiments, the wiring harnesses are customized or retrofitted, for example, integrated into the appliance or within a carriage that attaches to the appliance. For example, the appliance connection or carriage may include a slot or slots {e.g., similar to a desktop peripheral slot such as PCI slots) at a location for slidably inserting or “snapping” a nanogrid system with electrical connectors e.g., pins, communication lines, etc.) that slidably attach with the nanogrid system, with AC or other power connectors provided via the appliance or on an external-facing surface of the mounting hardware.[000213] In an example, one 1808a or more 1808b-c connectorized wiring harness(es) exits the nanogrid system, pairing with one 1810a or more 1810b-c connectorized wiring harness(es) from the target appliance. In some embodiments, the electrical connection interface includes one or more DC power conductor pairs {e.g. 3.3 to 48 V DC). In some embodiments, the electrical connection interface includes conductors dedicated to communication between the onboard appliance control circuitry and the onboard compute module of the nanogrid system, using wired communication methods such as RS485, RS232, CAN bus, SPI, I2C, USB, or similar serial communication methods.[000214] In these embodiments designed for specific appliance coupling, effective direct software communication with the appliance can be achieved by the aforementioned electrical wiring harness and / or wireless protocols, to gather data from integrated sensors within the appliance and / or via software integration with the appliance control unit. In these embodiments, communication may be bidirectional {e.g. between nanogrid compute system and the native appliance control system) or unidirectional {e.g. from the native appliance control system to the nanogrid compute system).[000215] In some embodiments designed for specific appliance coupling, the remote unit module is extended to an accessible external location on or adjacent to the coupled appliance. In other embodiments of direct appliance coupling, the remote unit remains connected to the main unit in this application when accessibility of the remote unit interfaces is preserved. In yet other embodiments of direct appliance coupling, the remote unit module’s componentry(e.g., auxiliary AC and DC receptacles are desired, and physical Ul) is integrated with the housing of the coupled appliance. Data exchange provides the nanogrid system with real-time appliance state data, allows sending the appliance control signals {e.g. stop / start defrost cycles, start / stop internal heaters, start / stop motors compressors or fans, modify duty cycle(s), modify appliance setpoints for purposes of power management, perform energy optimization routines, and / or gather performance diagnostics). In some embodiments, local digital communication is achieved by taking advantage of APl(s) hosted by the appliance and / or wireless standards for local appliance communication {e.g. OpenADR, TCP / IP REST API, Matter, etc.).[000216] In these embodiments designed for specific appliance coupling, environmental sensor modules may optionally be omitted when sensor information e.g. temperature, humidity, appliance state) is provided from direct communication with the appliance control unit, from native sensors within the appliance.[000217] FIG. 19 is a flow chart illustrating an example of a process that may be performed by the system to provide AC power to a connected appliance under variable input power conditions. Initially, at step 1901 the system receives AC grid power, distributed via an electrical system of a building, at an AC power input (e.g., input 930 in FIG. 9a) of the system. At step 1902 the system outputs AC power to a locally connected appliance via at least one AC power output (e.g., output 926 in FIG. 9a) of a plurality of power outputs of the system. At step 1903 the system senses a state (e.g., a voltage) of the AC grid power. At step 1904 the system determines whether the state (e.g., voltage) of the AC grid power satisfies a specified condition (e.g., exceeds a specified threshold voltage).[000218] If the state of the AC grid power satisfies the specified condition in step 1904, then the process proceeds to step 1905, in which the system maintains an electrical connection between the at least one AC power output and the AC power input. If, on the other hand, the state of the AC grid power does not satisfy the specified condition in step 1904, then the process instead proceeds from step 1904 to steps 1906 through 1908. In step 1906, the system electrically disconnects the at least one AC power output from the AC power input. In step 1907 the system converts DC power from an internal battery of the system (e.g., battery 914 in FIG. 9a) into battery-derived AC power. In step 1908 the system provides the battery-derived AC power produced in step 1907 to the at least one AC power output.IL Orchestration of Distributed Behind-the-Meter Nanogrids[000219] Traditional centralized building-integrated energy storage systems face challenges related to high installation costs, modification inflexibility after initial setup, and limited granularity in managing individual loads. More specifically, traditional backup power systems and home energy management solutions provide limited or no control, insight, or optimization of connected appliances and electrical loads within a home or building. Solutions such as whole-home battery systems and centralized “behind-the-meter” (BTM) battery energy storage systems (BESS) face challenges of high installed costs, complex installation, lack of practical support for multi-tenant building styles and rental properties, and lack of granular intelligence at the level of individual building / home areas and appliances.[000220] Current residential and commercial microgrid and distributed energy resource (DER) technologies are largely designed as fixed infrastructure, leading to high installation costs, complex permitting processes, and difficulty scaling up or modifying the systems as occupant needs and goals change over time. As fixed-in-place electrical infrastructure, these systems are designed with centralized microgrid control system (MCS) software and physically connect to a central point within the building’s electrical distribution system (e.g. to a single load center and set of electrical feeder conductors). This design approach hinders the adaptability, scalability and efficacy of current battery backup and energy management solutions.[000221] Remote orchestration of DERs at scale has been demonstrated within Virtual Power Plants (VPPs). These software-defined systems have been tailored exclusively to status quo fixed-in-place battery microgrids, and therefore, control granularity is limited to individual utility customers (i.e. at the whole-home or utility meter level).[000222] The present disclosure addresses the need for operating advanced, adaptable, and cost-effective energy management and backup power solutions in residential and commercial settings. Traditional centralized building-integrated energy storage systems face challenges related to high installation costs, modification inflexibility after initial setup, and limited granularity in managing individual loads. To overcome these limitations, this disclosure introduces a nanogrid mesh system, which includes multiple behind-the-meter battery nanogrid nodes distributed throughout a building's electrical system, and a system and set of methods for orchestrating such nanogrid nodes using a sophisticated software mesh communication network to aggregate their capabilities and behaviors as a single system. These nanogrid nodes provide unprecedented scalability and intelligent energy management alongside essential loads without the need for extensive electrical retrofit labor. The nanogrid nodes are autonomous, self-adapting communication nodes capable of coordinating multiplenanogrids within a building to provide real-time power control, predictive maintenance, energy optimization and advanced analytics at the premises level. The nanogrid mesh system is capable of coordinating with onsite solar photovoltaic systems, electric vehicle charging stations, centralized battery storage, and building management systems, while also enabling direct communication with non-nanogrid-connected loads and utility meters. This system introduces a number of advanced capabilities due to its distributed architecture, including dynamic load balancing, adaptive power routing, distributed computation for energy optimization, and integrated renewable energy forecasting, all managed through a dynamic system-level rules engine to optimize energy distribution and cost savings. By providing realtime feedback through client applications and utilizing cloud-based or local software for enhanced functionality, the nanogrid mesh system represents a significant advancement in residential energy management, offering improved flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and user control.[000223] The need for resilient, intelligent, and flexible home backup power and energy management solutions continues to grow with the increasing frequency of power outages, rising electricity costs, and dynamic utility tariffs presenting greater opportunities for energy optimization. Traditional backup power systems and home energy management solutions often fall short in providing granular control, insight, and optimization of connected appliances and electrical loads within a home or building. Solutions like whole-home battery systems and centralized “behind-the-meter” (BTM) battery energy storage systems (BESS) face challenges of high installed costs, complex installation, lack of practical support for multi-tenant building styles and rental properties, and lack of granular intelligence at the level of individual building / home areas and appliances.[000224] Current residential and commercial microgrid and distributed energy resource (DER) technologies are largely designed as fixed infrastructure, leading to high installation costs, complex permitting processes, and difficulty scaling up or modifying the systems as occupant needs and goals change over time. As fixed-in-place electrical infrastructure, these systems are designed with centralized microgrid control system (MCS) software and physically connect to a central point within the building’s electrical distribution system (e.g. to a single load center and set of electrical feeder conductors). This design approach hinders the adaptability, scalability and efficacy of current battery backup and energy management solutions.[000225] Remote orchestration of DERs at scale has been demonstrated within Virtual Power Plants (VPPs). These software-defined systems have been tailored exclusively to statusquo fixed-in-place battery microgrids, and therefore control granularity is limited to individual utility customers (i.e. at the whole-home or utility meter level). While this virtual orchestration provides value at the electric distribution grid level, we lack systems that address the need for on-premises (i.e., behind-the-meter) orchestration of dispersed battery nanogrid systems to meet the specific needs of buildings and their occupants.[000226] Connected (e.g. Wi-Fi-enabled) devices have grown in popularity in recent years, as Internet of Things (loT) solutions have gained prevalence. In some cases, these devices have even demonstrated the ability for remote orchestration to provide energy management through participating in Demand Response (DR) programs. However, these solutions rely on internet connectivity to operate, typically connected via the occupant’s Wi-Fi network and limited by pre-installed functionality of the loT device and limitations of the device manufacturers’ hardware and software. This approach presents challenges in maintaining reliable connections over the long term, meeting real-time control requirements with low latency, and performing local optimization and decision making in the absence of an internet connection. Moreover, today’s home loT products typically remain unaware — at the device level — of the broader product and building ecosystem in which they exist, limiting their usefulness.[000227] Mesh networking technology has gained mass popularity to provide reliable local area networks (LAN) in the form of mesh Wi-Fi systems. Meanwhile mesh communication technology has rapidly progressed across several other technologies such as Matter / Thread and Zigbee. However, application layers and methods for connecting and controlling battery nanogrid systems leveraging these technology advances do not yet exist.[000228] The current state of residential and small-commercial microgrid and backup power solutions highlights the need for cost-effective, intelligent, and easily deployable solutions that provide power resilience and energy optimization. The next generation of microgrid and nanogrid product and software solutions must support simple installation, easy scale-up over time, intelligent premises-level energy awareness, seamless integration within the building’s product ecosystem to effectively address the shortcomings of traditional solutions.[000229] The present disclosure is directed toward enhancing the accessibility, robustness, and performance of distributed behind-the-meter energy storage systems for backup power, building-level power control, energy management, energy optimization, and data insights into the built environment. This is achieved by introducing a system for communication, software-defined control, and optimization between a collection of battery-based nanogrid nodes connected in a distributed manner throughout a building’s electrical distribution system. This system addresses shortcomings of traditional centrally-managed, fixed-in-place, battery-based microgrid systems and / or loT appliances by enabling a deployment and coordination of a distributed system of interconnected nanogrid nodes, that are simple to install and scale, and are each capable of autonomous operation and coordination through a shared software framework.[000230] Use of this system fundamentally enables low-cost, plug-and-play nanogrid systems to deliver functionality of traditional central, fixed-in-place behind-the-meter (BTM) microgrid systems without complex centralized installation, while providing additional and previously unavailable granular level control and energy usage insights. By leveraging existing electrical connection interfaces in buildings (e.g. AC power receptacles and / or power within appliances), nanogrid nodes may be rapidly deployed and scaled without costly electrical retrofit.[000231] The nanogrid mesh system described below signifies a departure from central- controlled approaches of operating traditional fixed and portable backup power systems and loT appliances. It introduces methods to enable intelligent, interconnected power nodes distributed to convenient locations within a building or home. This system represents a novel decentralized energy management system with properties in redundancy and self-healing, scalability, electrical safety, and security.Electrical System and nanogrid nodes[000232] The physical (hardware) aspect of the nanogrid mesh system 2026 is defined by nanogrid nodes 2028a-b. A nanogrid node is designed to be electrically connected at any location within a premises alternating current (AC) wiring system 2000a-b (i.e., behind the meter) exemplified in FIG. 20. FIG. 20 shows illustrative embodiments of nanogrid nodes, detailing power routing between grid, storage battery, connected AC and DC appliances and devices, and optional external solar and storage battery modules. In this context, premises may be considered to be a home, apartment unit, or physical building with an associated and integrated electrical distribution system for which one or more electric utility meters 2004a-b is connected to a utility distribution grid 2002a-b and is supplied electrical power via AC feeder service conductors 2006a-b to a primary electric distribution panelboard or disconnecting means 2008a-b (i.e. the Service Equipment) containing primary overcurrent protection device(s) (OCPDs, also known as circuit breakers) 2010a-b which in turn feed branch circuits 2012a-f via branch circuit breakers 2014. Branch circuits may feed additional electricalpanelboards 2016, fixed-in-place loads 2018a-c or sources (i.e. hard-wired, non-temporary loads) 2020a-b, or one or more electrical receptacles 2022a-c. In some embodiments, the AC distribution wiring system is designed in a split-phase configuration with three current carrying conductors (Line 1, Line 2, and Neutral) having Line-to-Neutral (L-N) voltage of nominally 110~120 AC volts root-mean-squared (V RMS) and Line-to-Line (L-L) voltage of nominally 110~120 AC volts root-mean-squared (V RMS). In other embodiments, the AC distribution wiring system is designed in a single-phase configuration with two current carrying conductors (Line 1 and Neutral) having Line-to-Neutral (L-N) voltage of nominally 110~277 AC volts root-mean-squared (V RMS). In other embodiments, the AC distribution wiring system is designed in a three-phase wye configuration with four current carrying conductors (Line 1, Line 2, Line 3, and Neutral) having Line-to-Neutral (L-N) voltage of nominally 110~277 AC volts root-mean-squared (V RMS) and Line-to-Line (L-L) voltage of nominally 208~480 AC volts root-mean-squared (V RMS). In some embodiments, a premises- level microgrid is included in the premises distribution system, containing a means for islanding (i.e. via a Microgrid Interconnection Device, MID 2024) and, in select embodiments, also containing onsite solar photovoltaic (PV) generation device(s) 2020b and an onsite centralized battery energy storage system (BESS) 120a.[000233] In some embodiments, electrical connection of a nanogrid node to premises AC wiring is achieved via a power cable 2036 connected to an AC power receptacle 2022c (e.g., NEMA 5-15R, 1-15R, or 5-20R in the North American market). In some embodiments, the nanogrid node’s electrical connection to the premises wiring system is achieved by making a direct-wired connection via a set of branch conductors 2012e connected to an OCPD (e.g. circuit breaker) with no intervening receptacle.[000234] Similarly, in some embodiments, one or more loads 2032 may be connected to a nanogrid node 2028a via a detachable power cord 2036 to one or more AC receptacles 2030 contained on the nanogrid node. In select embodiments, one or more loads 2018b may be connected to a nanogrid node 2028b via a direct wired connection 2040 to on the nanogrid node without an intervening AC receptacle (e.g., NEMA 5-15R, 1-15R, or 5-20R) via field- installed conductors.[000235] In select embodiments, DC sources such as solar PV panel strings 2034b and battery modules 2034a may be connected to the nanogrid node to confer the system with additional energy storage and electrical generation capacity.[000236] The physical form of a nanogrid node is a self-contained device possessing the necessary mechanical, electrical, and programmable components to manage software-controlled electrical disconnection (“intentional islanding”) from the premises electrical system, to supply voltage and manage power to a combination of directly-connected and / or integrated loads, energy storage, energy generation, as well as communication and interaction with a nanogrid mesh network and external software systems. In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 21, a nanogrid node 2102 contains a rechargeable battery energy storage module 2104, AC and DC power conversion 2106, a Microgrid Control System (MCS) and Microgrid Interconnection Device (MID) to enable intentional islanding behavior 2108, a programmable processor and memory 2110 running onboard software and firmware, wireless radio modules 2112, environmental sensors 2114, one or more AC and / or DC power receptacles 2116, an Energy Management System 2118 consisting of actuators for modulating power flow and sensors for measuring electrical voltages and current flows and programmable logic, and a Battery Management System 2120 to prevent safety issues related to overtemperature, overcurrent, and over-voltage events within the Nanogrid system. One or more AC and DC loads may be connected to the nanogrid node. In some embodiments, the nanogrid node contains a combination of AC and DC loads internal to the device 2138 such as motors, compressors, fans, electric resistance heaters, actuators, solenoid-controlled valves, lighting, and other electronic components. In some embodiments, the nanogrid node includes one or more user-accessible electrical connections for a DC solar photovoltaic (PV) panel or string of series-connected solar PV panels attached via wiring connectors. At least elements 2104, 2106, 2108, 2110, 2118 and 2120 in FIG. 21 are collectively a power management component configured to provide backup power to one or more loads within at least a portion of the nanogrid system.[000237] Each nanogrid node is designed to be highly programmable, equipped with local data storage, memory, and real-time clock (RTC) 2110 to buffer collected data and store instructions, such as to enable event-based battery dispatch. This allows Nodes to execute custom processing tasks, manage data locally, and respond dynamically to changing conditions measured by one or more nanogrid nodes, or operational commands.[000238] The intentional islanding functionality conferred to each nanogrid node by the embedded MID, a device such as an electrical contact or relay that enables a microgrid (or nanogrid) system to separate from and reconnect to an interconnected primary power source, allows the nanogrid node to system to seamlessly switch between grid-tied and islanded modes (i.e. voltage-forming modes) without interruption, in a software-defined manner, ensuring continuous power supply during grid outages while maintaining synchronization with the main premises AC wiring system when available. The operation of the MID is controlled suchas by the MCS, a structured control system that manages microgrid (or nanogrid) operations, functionalities for utility interoperability, islanded operations, and transitions.[000239] Leveraging embedded Energy Management System software, nanogrid nodes with battery energy storage are designed to enable software-defined battery charge or discharge, monitoring, as well as enabling, disabling, or limiting power to connected load(s) for the purposes of energy management, power management, and protection of the connected loads in the event of power anomalies.[000240] In select embodiments, nanogrid nodes and / or specialized connected sensors are designed with the ability to monitor power conditions at its interconnection point to premises AC wiring system (e.g., at the premises receptacle or branch conductor interconnecting the nanogrid node). This includes measurement voltage (e.g. line-to-line, line- to-neutral, neutral-to-ground), frequency, phase, power factor(s), current(s), and conductor temperature(s) to infer health metrics. In this way, a nanogrid node or connected sensor is designed to monitor conditions which affect its ability to safely exchange power with the broader premises electrical system such as impedance, N-PE continuity, overcurrent, and other metrics.[000241] Taken together, the design of nanogrid nodes enables highly-localized local energy storage, energy management and energy optimization between connected loads, storage, and sources, as well as monitoring of connected / adjacent loads to provide users with insight into energy usage and environmental trends, and monitoring of power quality at its distributed connection point to the premises wiring.Nanogrid Mesh Network[000242] When two or more nanogrid nodes are located on a premises wiring electrical system, the system is designed to form a nanogrid mesh network 2100 featuring a decentralized architecture wherein nanogrid nodes 2102 communicate directly with each other and relay operational and configuration data to other nanogrid nodes. This design is purpose-developed to eliminate the need for a central “broker” node, such as commonly used in loT “hub-and-spoke” communication topologies, and thereby avoids a single point of failure, as each node functions as both a transmitter and receiver. In contrast, traditional communication systems used by today’s DER systems employ a centralized model with a main hub or server managing device communication and orchestration.[000243] In the formation of a nanogrid mesh network, each nanogrid node actively manages its connection to the shared wireless mesh network by continuously monitoringnetwork conditions and adjusting its communication and data routing parameters to ensure stable and efficient data exchange with neighboring nanogrid nodes.[000244] In select embodiments the nanogrid mesh network uses a combination of one or more wireless technologies for peer-to-peer communication, including LoRa, Wi-Fi, Thread, Bluetooth, Zigbee, and / or other wireless technologies 2122. In some embodiments, the nanogrid mesh network (e.g., one or more of the nanogrid nodes) leverages TCP / IP to allow optional integration with other IP-based systems and to provide internet access to other devices. In some embodiments, the nanogrid mesh network uses proprietary communication protocols tailored to the specific application, which may not be based on TCP / IP.[000245] In some embodiments, one or more nanogrid nodes maintains internet connectivity through one or more routes 2132 such as Wi-Fi (e.g. via a Local Area Network), Ethernet, satellite internet (e.g., StarLink), and / or cellular network, ensuring consistent access to external resources and seamless integration with other IP-based systems. In particular, this internet connection facilitates communication with backend (i.e. Cloud) software systems 2128 designed to interact with the Nanogrid Mesh Network. In some embodiments, a client software application on an external device (e.g. smartphone App or web-based application) 2126 may directly communicate 2124 with one or more nanogrid nodes (e.g. via Wi-Fi, Thread, Matter, or Bluetooth protocols), or communication to the client application may be routed via the Cloud system and internet connection 2130, to facilitate system monitoring, managing settings, and / or issuing user-generated control commands.[000246] In some embodiments, the Nanogrid Mesh Network, via one or more nanogrid nodes, supports programmable communication with other third-party software systems on premises (i.e. BTM) related to power, energy, data, and user interface 2136 via APIs and conventional wireless or wired communication protocols (e.g. Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Matter, Thread, powerline communication, Bluetooth, Ethernet, CAN, RS485, and others) 2134. Examples of such software integrations include Smart Home Assistants, other Distributed Energy Resources such as solar PV systems and battery energy storage systems, Home Energy Management Systems, Building Energy Management Systems, Microgrid Control Systems, and / or Power Control Systems. Data exchange and software-based interoperability with these third-party systems confers greater energy data context both to the nanogrid mesh system and to these third-party systems allowing for further optimized energy management and power control functionality benefitting building owners and occupants.[000247] The nanogrid mesh network is specifically designed to include self-healing abilities; if a node fails or a communication link is broken, the network automatically reroutesdata through other available paths, enhancing reliability and resilience. In other network configurations, such failures can lead to significant disruptions or require manual intervention for reconfiguration. Each node on the nanogrid mesh network performs periodic health checks to assess network performance and can automatically reconfigure to ensure efficient energy distribution and system resilience.[000248] Scalability is a significant advantage of the nanogrid mesh network. Adding new nodes expands the network's coverage and energy capacity without significantly affecting existing performance, allowing nodes to join or leave without disrupting overall connectivity. The traditional communication networks used for today’s DERs, however, often face scalability limitations and may require substantial reconfiguration, re-installation, or additional infrastructure as more DERs are added. The system is designed for simple, secure pairing and unpairing. In some embodiments, this is achieved via a client application and user interface connected to one or more nanogrid nodes on the network.[000249] The nanogrid mesh network provides inherent redundancy and reliability through multiple data transmission pathways, ensuring continued operation even if some nodes or links are compromised. This significantly increases the network's overall reliability. Conversely, centralized or hierarchical network designs are more vulnerable to outages due to single points of failure.[000250] Dynamic routing in the nanogrid mesh network allows nodes to determine the best path for data based on current network conditions, such as traffic load and node availability. This adaptive routing improves efficiency and performance, unlike other networks that typically have predefined, less flexible routing paths, leading to bottlenecks and inefficient data transmission.[000251] The nanogrid mesh network facilitates peer-to-peer communication 2122, enabling nanogrid nodes to communicate directly without needing a central server or intermediary. This model allows for more direct and potentially faster communication. In contrast, traditional networks often rely on intermediary devices or servers, introducing delays and additional complexity. An example of a communication state machine 2300 for a nanogrid node within the mesh network is shown in FIG. 23. When a nanogrid node initializes, it enters the Idle state 2302, not actively processing or transmitting data, and waits for a predetermined time or event trigger. When this condition is met, the nanogrid node transitions to the Listening state 2304, where it activates the receiver and listens for incoming data packets. If the nanogrid node receives data, it transitions to the Processing state 2306, where it validates and parses the data, extracting relevant information such as power consumption and network status. If thedata is valid, the nanogrid node transitions to the Aggregating state 2308. In this state, the nanogrid aggregates the received data with its local parameters, updating local power consumption and generation metrics and calculating the sum or combination of data from itself and neighboring nodes. Once the aggregation is complete, the nanogrid node transitions to the Transmitting state 2310, preparing the aggregated data for transmission. The nanogrid node formats the data into packets suitable for mesh network transmission and sends the data to neighboring nodes. After transmission, the nanogrid node transitions to the Updating state 2312, where it updates its local parameters and network aggregated data, logging any significant events or errors. Upon completing the update, the nanogrid node returns to the Idle state 2302, ready to start the process again. This state machine ensures that each node effectively manages communication, processes data, and maintains updated and accurate network-wide parameters. Such peer-to-peer communication and data aggregation functionality allows the system to maintain an accurate and up-to-date model of the entire system’s state (e.g. aggregate energy capacity, power, islanding state, and electrical-spatial model of building energy), which is used to inform decision-making and changes to operation at the Nanogrid level and Nanogrid Mesh system level.[000252] FIG. 24 depicts a flowchart diagram of an example of a nanogrid node’s core software-implemented functions 2400. A nanogrid node may include a programmable processor and memory 210 (FIG. 2) to implement software-implemented functions 2400. In at least one embodiment, software-implemented functions 2400 include the following inputprocessing functions:1) receiving messages from one or more other nanogrid nodes 2402;2) receiving messages from one or more users (e.g., as settings updates provided via smartphone App, onboard user interface(s), API communication, etc.) 2404;3) receiving information from an on-site software system (e.g., HEMS, BMS, MCS, PCS) 2406;4) collecting environmental sensor data (e.g., from onboard sensors or wirelessly-paired sensors) 2408;5) collecting power / energy sensor data (e.g., from onboard sensors or external sensors paired to the nanogrid node) 2410; and6) monitoring system status (e.g., state of energy, operational and fault status, metrics related to mesh network performance, etc.) 2412.[000253] The nanogrid node processes any or all of the aforementioned information 2414 (e.g., using programmable processor and memory 2410) to produce any one or more of the following output-related functions:1) transmitting one or more messages to one or more other nanogrid nodes 2416 in the mesh (e.g., as updated aggregate power or energy data, power and energy data specific to this particular nanogrid node, system status related to this particular nanogrid node, metrics related to mesh communication performance, etc.);2) buffering one or more messages to one or more other nanogrid nodes 2418;3) updating a system level rules engine model (e.g., relating to system settings, energy and power limits, 1st' and 3rd-party communication settings, grid code power and voltage limits, etc.) 2420;4) routing preferences to other nanogrid nodes 2422;5) scanning for new nanogrid mesh connections (e.g., using user-inputted unique ID codes, pre-configured and / or rotating security key(s), etc.) 2424;6) hosting wireless access for one or more other nanogrid nodes 2426;7) registering and / or deregistering the nanogrid node from the mesh 2428;8) broadcasting the nanogrid node’s identity to other nanogrid nodes in the mesh 2430;9) outputting user notifications (e.g., to external smartphone apps, web dashboards, monitoring systems, etc.) 2432;10)updating onboard user interfaces (e.g., display screen(s), status LED(s), etc.) 2434;11) enabling, disabling and / or limiting power to connected loads (e.g., by actuating a power relay, actuating a control relay or MOSFET, modifying the onboard DCAC’s output power characteristics, sending a software request to a connected appliance or device, etc.) 2436;12)charging and / or discharging battery storage 2438;13) controlling islanding state via the grid disconnect relay (MID) 2440; and14) updating settings and / or onboard memory 2442.[000254] The mesh network can utilize various topologies to facilitate efficient communication and data management, which is illustrated in FIGs. 26a, 26b and 26c. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 26a, the system employs a fully connected nanogrid mesh topology 2600, in which each nanogrid node is directly connected to every other nanogrid node, providing redundancy and reliability. This configuration allows for multiple communication paths, enhancing network resilience and fault tolerance. Alternatively, the system may use a partial mesh topology 2602, where nodes are only connected to a subset ofother nodes. This approach reduces the number of connections each node must manage, in some scenarios lowering the complexity and cost while still maintaining sufficient redundancy. In other embodiments, the network may adopt a hybrid topology that combines elements of both mesh and star configurations. In this setup, a nominated central node or set of nodes manages key communication and coordination tasks, while other nodes connect in a mesh pattern. This combination can optimize the balance between network robustness, scalability, and efficiency, ensuring that critical data paths remain robust while reducing overhead.[000255] Importantly, connections to optional devices and software systems are not required to communicate to all nanogrid nodes on the mesh network. As an example 2604, as shown in FIG. 26c, one nanogrid node 2606a may maintain connection 2608a to the cloud backend system 2610 while a separate nanogrid node 2606b maintains connection 2608b to a client application (e.g. a smartphone application) 2612, yet another nanogrid node 2606c maintains connection 2608c to on-premises devices and / or software systems (e.g. a third party DER, MID, EMS, HEMS, BMS, and / or monitoring systems) 2614. In some embodiments, the nanogrid mesh system is capable of dynamically passing connection to optional devices and software systems between nanogrid nodes, by securely sharing connection details to these systems across the nanogrid mesh network, and in doing so allow for high connection strength and reliability to these systems.[000256] The nanogrid mesh network is designed to provide extended coverage in areas where traditional networks struggle, as each node helps extend the network's range. This is particularly useful in large or irregularly shaped areas. Other networks typically limit coverage to the range of the central node or infrastructure, potentially leaving gaps in larger or more complex environments.[000257] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 26b, one or more extender (nanogrid) nodes 2616 may be added to a nanogrid system 2602 to extend the wireless coverage in areas where the addition of nanogrid nodes is not required, addressing gaps in wireless coverage. Extender nodes will typically contain at least wireless radio(s), antennas, onboard processing, and one or more components for enabling the extender node to remain powered.[000258] In some embodiments, a site-level controller (or central broker device) may be included for ease of interfacing with other devices and systems. However, in other embodiments, such a device is not required, as all nanogrid nodes are capable of maintaining site-level awareness and coordinating autonomously to provide high network performance and reliability.Nanogrid Mesh Network Security and Privacy[000259] The nanogrid mesh system can be equipped with several advanced features to ensure heightened security and privacy for users and their data, including but not limited to Encryption, Intrusion Detection and Response, Dynamic Routing and Load Balancing, and Localized Security Zones.[000260] The nanogrid mesh system employs local communication, allowing nodes to interact directly without the need for a central hub. This reduces the number of points where data can be intercepted, significantly enhancing privacy. Additionally, the system uses peer-to- peer encryption for direct node-to-node communication, such that data in transit is protected, ensuring that only intended recipients can read the messages, thus safeguarding sensitive information from unauthorized access.[000261] Each node in the nanogrid mesh system is capable of distributed monitoring, where traffic is continuously observed for unusual patterns or anomalies. This proactive approach helps in identifying and responding to threats swiftly. Moreover, the system supports collaborative defense, where nodes can work together to isolate compromised nodes, thereby reducing the spread of attacks and maintaining the integrity of the network.[000262] The nanogrid mesh system features adaptive path selection, allowing it to dynamically choose the best paths for data based on current network conditions, including security considerations. This adaptability makes it more difficult for attackers to predict and target specific paths. Furthermore, by evenly distributing traffic, the system can prevent overload on any single node, mitigating the risk of Denial of Service (DoS) attacks and ensuring continuous, reliable operation.[000263] The system’s design allows for the easy addition of security-enhanced nodes, facilitating incremental improvements in security without necessitating a complete overhaul of the network. Security policies can also be updated and propagated dynamically across the network, so that all nodes have the most up to date protections. This flexibility supports both immediate and long-term security needs as the network grows.[000264] The nanogrid mesh system can create localized security zones, where sensitive data is only accessible to certain nodes. This segmentation reduces the risk of broad data exposure. Additionally, the system implements granular access control at the node level, allowing for fine-grained permissions and better protection of sensitive resources. This ensures that only authorized devices and users can access critical parts of the network, further enhancing security.[000265] To ensure the nanogrid mesh system can leverage state-of-the-art security practices and functionality, each nanogrid node’s programmable processor and memory unit 210 is designed to support over-the-air (OTA) software updates, which may be transferred to one or more individual nanogrid node via the Internet (e.g. via Wi-Fi or Ethernet), via connection to a smartphone app (e.g. via shared Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and / or Thread connection), and / or via direct interface with the Nanogrid device (e.g. via a USB serial connection).[000266] In summary, the nanogrid mesh system’s advanced security and privacy features — including enhanced data privacy, intrusion detection and response, dynamic routing and load balancing, scalability and flexibility, and localized security zones — work together to provide a robust and secure energy management solution.Dynamically Adding and Removing Nanogrid Nodes on the Network[000267] An aspect of the nanogrid mesh network is the ability to expand over time by adding or removing nodes. To support this capability, the system can be configured for simple, secure pairing and unpairing.[000268] The process of registering and de-registering nodes in the mesh network (that is, adding and removing nanogrid nodes) can be designed with several distinct states and transitions 2500, such as illustrated in FIG. 25. Initially, a node remains in the Idle state 2502, not engaged in any specific registration or de-registration activity. In some embodiments, a registration / de-registration event may be triggered via a software command (e.g. API call). In other embodiments, a physical interaction such as button-press on device or a measurement at a sensor is used to initiate and validate the request. In other embodiments, registration may occur automatically once a new nanogrid node is powered on within the network range of existing nanogrid node(s), facilitated by pre-shared security key(s) designed for secure authentication. When a new nanogrid node connects to the nanogrid mesh network and sends a registration request, the receiving nanogrid node transitions to a state of Listening for Registration Requests 2504. Upon receiving a request, the nanogrid node moves to the Authenticating Node state 2506, where it verifies the credentials of the requesting node. In some embodiments, authentication leverages a connection to a secure backend server to check for a valid U1D, while in other embodiments the system uses secure means for local validation. If authentication is successful, the node proceeds to the Adding Node state 2508, where it registers the new node and updates the network topology accordingly. Following this, the node transitions to Broadcasting Update (Addition) state 2510, during which it disseminates theupdated list of registered nodes to the entire network, and validates receipt of this update in Validation state 2512. The node then returns to the Idle state 2502.[000269] Similarly, when a nanogrid node sends a de-registration request, the receiving nanogrid node again transitions from the Idle state to Listening for De-registration Requests. After receiving a de-registration request, the nanogrid node moves to the Authenticating Node state to verify the credentials of the de-registering nanogrid node. Authentication may similarly involve checking with a secure backend server or using local validation methods. Upon successful authentication, the node enters the Removing Node state, where it de-registers the node and updates the network topology. Subsequently, the nanogrid node transitions to Broadcasting Update (De-registration), broadcasting the updated list of registered nodes to the entire network. Finally, the nanogrid node returns to the Idle state, ready to handle future requests.System-level aggregate behaviors and value[000270] At a system level (i.e. with two or more nanogrid nodes forming a nanogrid mesh network) significant control and monitoring value arises, including electrification enablement (i.e., connection of new electric loads and / or sources to a home or building) via real-time power management at the premises level, as well as efficient energy management at the premises level (i.e. delivering Energy Management System, EMS, functionality).[000271] To produce a system-level model of aggregate power, energy and system status, the nanogrid mesh system is designed to aggregate information from each nanogrid node into a premises-level virtual nanogrid system 2202 representation by facilitating both real-time and periodic data exchanges between nodes. This continuous flow of information allows the system to dynamically update and optimize the overall energy management, storage, and distribution across the entire premises. Aggregated system information is propagated to each nanogrid node, allowing them to maintain an updated record of the premises-level virtual system and their own local system status and configuration. This ensures that each node operates with a comprehensive awareness of the overall network, enhancing coordination and optimizing energy management across the entire premises.[000272] To achieve this, each nanogrid node maintains a dynamic description of its own operating data in a common structured data format, which includes details such as energy storage capacity, charge / discharge power, local AC voltage characteristics, and local system status. This standardized data structure ensures compatibility and seamless integration with a site-level rules engine, such as site-level rules engine 2228 in FIG. 22. FIG. 22 shows an exampleof a system 2200 of nanogrid nodes 2230 forming a nanogrid mesh, including wireless coverage, along with software interactions with on-premises and remote software systems. The node’s operating data is periodically updated and shared / advertised across the nanogrid mesh network, allowing for incorporating of this data into a system-level decision making processes, i.e., the site-level rules engine 2228. By leveraging this consistent data format, the rules engine can effectively manage and optimize the entire system, ensuring efficient energy distribution and adherence to site-specific parameters and utility tariff requirements.[000273] In some embodiments, nanogrid nodes advertise operational parameters such as real-time representations of available energy storage capacity (Wh) and charge / discharge power (W), both for the battery module and for the combined nanogrid node (i.e. including energy storage, load draw, and, where applicable, solar PV generation), status and power demand of connected loads, AC voltage(s) and frequency, current, power factor, phase information.[000274] An aspect of the nanogrid mesh network is its rules engine mechanism that propagates model data to implement intelligent energy management strategies across the system. The rules engine contains both pre-set and dynamic information. In some embodiments, this includes site-level metadata, utility tariff data, setpoints related to power flow and power quality at specific locations in the premises wiring system, and limits for power exchange with the premises wiring system and the utility grid. By continuously processing realtime and periodic data from each nanogrid node, the rules engine dynamically adjusts operations to optimize energy distribution, enhance power quality, and increase cost savings based on current utility tariffs. This approach ensures that the system operates efficiently and adapts to changing conditions, maintaining high performance and reliability across the entire premises.[000275] The system is designed to employ approaches to division of computational labor. In some embodiments, this is done by performing certain intensive optimizations in the Cloud, with results periodically sent to the local nanogrid network to update onboard software model parameters (e.g., via an Internet connection 2212, 2216 maintained by one or more nanogrid nodes 2230, via Wi-Fi (e.g., a local area network 2214), cellular network 2210, or other route). In some embodiments, the system is designed to distribute computational tasks across nanogrid nodes, allowing each node to share in the processing load for computationally intensive optimization and prediction algorithms, ensuring efficient use of local resources and enhanced overall performance.[000276] By leveraging the site-level rules engine and system model within the nanogrid mesh network, the system enables a number of aggregate functions, described below.[000277] In some embodiments, the system is configured to manage net power flow between the premises and the utility grid (i.e. delivering Power Control System (PCS) functionality) by controlling power flow within each nanogrid node (i.e. between connected loads, storage, and generation) and between each nanogrid node and premises wiring system in concert, to produce a net change in current import / export across the electric utility meter on one or more pre-defined Line and / or Neutral conductors. In doing so, the nanogrid mesh is able to manage power and current limits inherent to feeder conductors, and / or to manage energy usage at the premises level to improve overall operational cost and carbon-intensity of the premises’ electrical demand.[000278] In some embodiments, the system in aggregate may be configured to perform Dynamic Load Balancing, implementing an intelligent load-balancing mechanism that dynamically shifts energy consumption between various nanogrids based on real-time usage patterns, grid demand, and battery state of charge to optimize efficiency and reduce peak loads. [000279] In some embodiments, the system is designed to provide premises-level monitoring of electrical system health (e.g., using voltage, frequency, power factor, impedance, conductor temperature and other parameters), equipment health, environmental conditions, and overall performance, offering a holistic view of the building's energy and ecosystem to support enhancing operational efficiency, reliability, and safety.[000280] In some embodiments, the system in aggregate may be configured to perform adaptive power routing, commanding software-controlled power and energy setpoints between different nanogrid nodes based on factors such as utility time-of-use (TOU) tariff rates, utility demand charge tariffs, renewable energy availability, and user preferences to reduce energy costs and carbon footprint. Power routing and switching mechanisms are achieved by adjusting the charge / discharge power of the nanogrid node(s) battery module(s), managing power to nanogrid-connected loads, and managing power injection from nanogrid- connected sources. In some embodiments, power to connected loads is controlled by onboard power relays. In some embodiments, direct communication with loads and appliances is used to modulate power consumption.[000281] In some embodiments, the system in aggregate may be configured to perform predictive maintenance and optimization by incorporating machine learning algorithms to predict maintenance needs and optimize the performance of the battery nanogrid system, analyzing historical data and environmental conditions to reduce downtime and extendcomponent lifespan. This includes developing a model of building wiring system health based on data from each nanogrid node, such as impedance under various conditions, voltage, frequency, harmonics, power factor, and conductor temperature.[000282] In some embodiments, the system in aggregate may be configured to perform advanced energy storage management by implementing a multi-tiered energy storage management system that prioritizes energy storage and discharge across various nanogrid nodes based on critical load requirements, user preferences, and predictive energy availability from renewable sources.[000283] In some embodiments, the system in aggregate may be configured to perform real-time energy analytics and user feedback by providing real-time energy usage analytics and feedback through a mobile application or web interface, helping users understand their detailed energy consumption patterns, identify inefficiencies of specific appliances and loads, and make informed decisions to improve energy savings.[000284] In some embodiments, the system in aggregate may be configured to perform Automated Demand Response (DR) by creating an automated system that adjusts energy consumption in response to grid signals, utility pricing, or environmental conditions, helping to balance grid load and reduce energy costs for users.[000285] In some embodiments, the system in aggregate may be configured to perform integrated renewable energy forecasting by incorporating forecasting tools into the nanogrid management system to predict solar and wind energy generation, thereby allowing for improved planning and optimization of energy storage and usage.[000286] In some embodiments, the system in aggregate may include maintenance and diagnostic tools by providing advanced tools and methods for predictive maintenance, diagnostics, and performance monitoring of the battery nanogrid system, including innovative approaches to fault detection and system health assessment.[000287] In some embodiments, the system in aggregate may be configured to perform environmental monitoring and response by implementing methods to monitor environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity, that affect occupant comfort and battery performance, then adjusting system operations accordingly.Interactions with other on-premises and remote software systems[000288] The aggregated nanogrid mesh network system is designed with interoperability in mind, enabling seamless integration with various on-premises software systems 236; 2222. This includes interfacing with solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, electric vehicle chargingsystems (EVSEs), larger centralized battery energy storage systems (BESS), and building management systems (BMS) or home energy management systems (HEMS), allowing for coordinated and optimized energy management across all components of the building's energy ecosystem.[000289] In some embodiments, the system is configured to connect with 1st party and 3rd party client software applications 2204, such as smartphone apps or web dashboards, providing users with intuitive access to real-time data, control features, and system insights, ensuring a comprehensive and user-friendly experience for managing their energy resources. [000290] The system is also designed for integration with cloud backend systems (e.g., first-party or third-party DERMS and VPP orchestration systems) 2206, 2226, onsite software systems (such as third-party BMS, HEMS, and MCS), and for direct communication with non- nanogrid-connected end loads (e.g., central HVAC systems), and smart utility meters 2224 via wireless protocols, facilitating comprehensive and flexible energy management across multiple platforms and devices.[000291] The system can be configured to connect 2220 directly with distributed energy resources (DERs) 2222 such as onsite solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, enabling efficient energy management and integration. Specifically, the aggregate system supports charging from onsite AC-coupled solar, allowing for optimized energy use by leveraging renewable energy generation to charge the nanogrid’s battery storage. This capability ensures that the energy storage system benefits from solar energy, reducing reliance on grid power and enhancing overall sustainability. FIG. 27 shows an example process 2700 for providing a unified representation of a nanogrid system including a plurality of nanogrid nodes. In some implementations, one or more process blocks of Fig. 1 may be performed by a device, such as a nanogrid node. As shown in FIG. 27, process 2700 may include receiving, at a computing device via a communication network formed with the plurality of nanogrid nodes, data regarding the operation of each nanogrid node of the plurality of nanogrid nodes (block 2702). For example, the device may receive, at a computing device via a communication network formed with the plurality of nanogrid nodes, data regarding the operation of each nanogrid node of the plurality of nanogrid nodes, as described above. As also shown in FIG. 27, process 2700 may include determining aggregated information for the nanogrid system based on the received data (block 2704). For example, the device may determine aggregated information for the nanogrid system based on the received data, as described above. As further shown in FIG. 27, process 2700 may include providing, to a computing or graphical interface, a representation of a distributed energy resource (DER) based on the aggregated information(block 2706). For example, the device may provide, to a computing or graphical interface, a representation of a distributed energy resource (DER) based on the aggregated information, as described above.[000292] Although FIG. 27 shows example blocks of process 2700, in some implementations, process 2700 may include additional blocks, fewer blocks, different blocks, or differently arranged blocks than those depicted in FIG. 27. Additionally, or alternatively, two or more of the blocks of process 2700 may be performed in parallel.III. Self-Contained, Modular, Intelligent and Resilient Appliance Nanogrid System[000293] Traditional backup generators lack intelligent software-controlled features for supporting the electric grid and rely on fossil fuels, making them unsustainable and less adaptable to modern energy requirements. Backup generator systems generally are not able to provide additional software-enabled energy management or data insights valuable to the occupant.[000294] Existing solutions such as rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) and building- integrated battery energy storage systems (BESS) are often prohibitively expensive, requiring specialized labor for installation and complex permitting processes which have slowed adoption at scale. These product solutions are optimized for integration with single-family detached homes, making them less suitable for other building styles, such as multi-family or commercial properties. Furthermore, portable battery power stations (e.g. camping batteries with AC output) are low-cost and convenient but are not designed for grid interoperability, are not optimized for integration within the built environment, and lack the necessary compute and software capabilities to integrate with building systems and appliances. These portable solutions are intended for off-the-grid use and are not suitable for standard grid-connected homes and businesses where appliances are used in a semi-permanent manner, limiting their value to the electric power system.[000295] The rise of smart appliances enabled by the Internet of Things (loT) revolution has brought about significant advancements in home automation and energy management. However, aside from smart electric vehicle (EV) chargers and smart thermostats, these devices to date have failed to deliver material grid support value, such as participation in Demand Response (DR) programs. Moreover, current smart appliances do not integrate seamlessly within today’s emergent home energy management systems (HEMS) or building management systems (BMS), nor do they coordinate on site-level energy management strategies for highenergy and utility bill savings. They also fail to interact with onsite microgrids and generation (like solar PV systems) to monitor and self-report energy usage effectively or alter behavior in support of optimized system-level performance.[000296] The operation of building-integrated, i.e., behind-the-meter (BTM), microgrids presents significant challenges when integrating unmanaged loads, which are indeterminate in their operation, non-interactive, non-communicating, and uncontrolled. These loads can cause microgrid stability issues and design challenges, particularly due to inrush currents at load start-up that exceed the capacity of current-limited safety systems on standard multimode inverters, such as those used in the Tesla Powerwall. While solutions like smart electrical panels partially address this load control need by offering branch-circuit-level power control at the circuit breaker level, they fail to provide granular and appliance-sensitive control. This lack of precise control leads to inefficiencies and potential instability within the microgrid, along with a poor user experience. Without the ability to manage individual appliances, the system cannot optimize energy usage or respond effectively to varying load demands, resulting in increased wear and tear on the infrastructure and reduced overall efficiency. Effective management of loads at the appliance level is crucial for maintaining microgrid stability and achieving the desired energy efficiency and resilience.[000297] Finally, there is a significant opportunity to improve the efficiency, longevity, and interoperability of the appliances in our homes and businesses by innovating on core power systems design. This can be achieved by leveraging direct current (DC) motors, incorporating energy storage, and integrating advanced control systems. By doing so, we can provide better control, flexibility, and efficiency, enabling appliances to operate more intelligently and in harmony with the overall energy system. This approach allows for precise speed control, variable speed operation, and higher starting torque, which are particularly beneficial for optimizing performance and reducing energy consumption. Additionally, the integration of energy storage enables better management of energy supply and demand, ensuring that appliances can continue to operate efficiently even during power outages or periods of high demand. Enhanced interoperability among appliances and the broader energy ecosystem also facilitates seamless communication and coordination, further improving energy efficiency and resilience.[000298] There is a pressing need for the next generation of microgrid and nanogrid solutions to be cost-effective, intelligent, and easily deployable. These solutions should support simple installation, easy scalability, intelligent premises-level energy awareness, and seamless integration within the building’s product ecosystem. Such advancements will address theshortcomings of traditional backup power systems and provide the necessary resilience and energy optimization for modern homes and businesses.[000299] Introduced here us a self-contained, modular, intelligent, and resilient appliance nanogrid system designed to revolutionize energy resilience, energy management, and electrical safety within the built environment by enhancing the accessibility, flexibility, efficiency and interoperability of appliances and energy systems in homes and businesses. This system advances power capabilities and intelligence of connected appliances, enabling them with energy storage, solar photovoltaic generation, flexible power conversion, and intentional islanding capabilities to participate in broader energy systems (i.e. behind-the-meter and distribution grid level) and deliver unique value for grid services, energy optimization, and power control. Simultaneously, the system provides seamless backup power to the appliance system and user-connected loads during power outages and events leveraging a flexible AC and DC receptacle system and modular battery design. This system takes an integrated product design approach to battery-based microgrid solutions which uniquely circumvents traditional retrofit design challenges when deploying this technology into a premises’ electrical distribution system. Through integration of energy storage and power conversion with loads designed for heating and cooling applications, a highly space and energy efficient design can be achieved through integrated passive and active thermal designs. The system’s powerful onboard processing and software systems enable extensive distributed monitoring, control, and integration capabilities within both first- and third-party product ecosystems, delivering energy performance optimization, energy management, nanogrid control, and appliance failure prediction. This functionality is presented with user-friendly interfaces, accessible both on the device and through companion applications (e.g., smartphone, web, televisions, AR / VR, etc.) and APIs (e.g., for integration, use, and display with and / or within other applications), allowing for remote monitoring and configuration. This system is uniquely positioned to reshape the landscape of residential energy and intelligent appliances with the introduction of this economical, adaptable, and smart system designed to manage and supply power to essential home equipment.[000300] The self-contained, modular, intelligent and resilient appliance nanogrid system introduced here is directed toward addressing the accessibility, performance, and interoperability limitations of existing building-integrated battery energy storage systems, BTM microgrids, building electrical loads, and solar PV systems, while enhancing the energy resilience, flexibility, efficiency, monitoring, serviceability, and software integration ability of traditional home appliances. The system creates benefits not realized by modern appliances ormodern microgrid systems by combining unique approaches to power system design, integrated thermal management, power conversion, energy management and optimization, microgrid controls, system and environmental monitoring, programmable software logic and networking, and design for integration with home and grid software systems. The system’s design provides accessibility by leveraging existing infrastructure and familiar device form factors, thereby simplifying both retrofit and new installation to minimize technology deployment cost and complexity.System overview[000301] The nanogrid system introduced here may include a power system including alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) electrical buses at a variety of voltages optimized to the associated AC and DC loads, DC generation, AC sources, and DC storage modules, along with intelligent power conversion circuitry to seamlessly convert between voltages (i.e. DC-DC converters, and DC-AC converters also known as inverters). The power system can be designed for high conversion efficiency and flexibility for a variety of applications. Integrated within the electrical power buses are components for controlling (i.e. with actuators, relays, contactors, switches) and monitoring power to support the system’s operation and to provide data inputs for enhancing the capabilities and performance of the overall system. One manner of control is an embedded Microgrid Interconnection Device (MID) to enable the system to safely intentionally island, providing backup power to connected loads via the system’s integrated energy storage and energy generation.[000302] The system’s integrated thermal system represents a significant improvement to overall energy efficiency and appliance performance. In an integrated system such as this, during operation often one component or area may require increased temperature while another requires decreased temperature, benefiting from a system-level integrated approach to limit energy expenditure to independently optimize the thermal requirements. The thermal system leverages a combination of active and passive strategies to effectively monitor multiple integrated components and areas, and efficiently move heat from one location to another to achieve controlled, localized heating and cooling of these components and areas. The thermal system is designed to utilize a combination of working fluids (e.g. air, coolant, refrigerant) in a combination of open-loop (e.g. with the local ambient environment) and closed-loop exchanges.[000303] A specifically designed compute and programmable software system confers the power and thermal systems with their intelligent capabilities, while adding significant value tooverall performance, monitoring, and control. The onboard compute system can include programmable processor(s), memory and software, and embedded electronics designed to effectively integrate these elements. This onboard system is responsible for a variety of hardware-enabled, software-defined functions encapsulated by an energy management system (EMS), power control system (PCS), microgrid control system (MCS), thermal management system (TMS), and appliance management system (AMS), plus communication and interoperability with backend software systems (i.e. Cloud) and on-premises software systems and communication networks (e.g. local area networks, Wi-Fi, Matter)[000304] The system’s mechanical design is designed to allow for seamless installation and integration within the built environment, while providing users with intuitive, robust interfaces. Unlike traditional building-integrated battery energy storage systems, this system is capable of semi-permanent or fixed installation akin to appliance systems (e.g. via a standard power receptacle, or via connection to electrical distribution equipment such as a load center). Unlike portable power station batteries, this system is not designed to be transported as part of normal use, but rather to exist in a selected location within the built environment (i.e. be installed in a residence or business). This can be achieved by designing the system with a robust enclosure (e.g., as depicted at 2904a-b) containing and hosting the core elements of the nanogrid power system (storage, generation, loads, electrical interconnections, and circuitry), thermal system, compute and communication system, and user interfaces. Specific advantages of this design for semi-permanence include delivering automatic backup power in power outages, energy management with strategies including premises-level energy context, providing automatic current management (i.e. acting as a Power Control System), gathering, and delivering energy and other insights relevant to the specific associated premise.[000305] This nanogrid system is designed to be electrically connected at any location within a premises’ alternating current (AC) wiring system (i.e., behind the meter) as illustrated in FIGs. 28a - 28d. FIGs. 28a - 28d show examples of a building's electrical system and different ways in which a nanogrid can be integrated within it. These diagrams detail power architectures for the example nanogrid, containing battery energy storage, integrated and user-connected AC and DC loads, and optional external solar photovoltaic and battery storage modules FIG. 28d further shows an integrated load, in a nanogrid, that may be selectively switched between the AC or DC bus within the nanogrid.[000306] In this context, premises may be considered to be a home, apartment unit, or physical building with an associated and integrated electrical distribution system for which one or more electric utility meters 2810a-d is connected to a utility distribution grid 2808a-dand is supplied electrical power via AC feeder service conductors 282a-d to a primary electric distribution panelboard or disconnecting components (i.e. the Service Equipment 2814a-b, 2814d, 2824) containing primary overcurrent protection device(s) (OCPDs, also known as circuit breakers) 2816a-b, 2816d, 2826 which in turn feed branch circuits via branch circuit breakers 2818a-d. Branch circuits may feed 2828 additional electrical panelboards, fixed-in- place loads or sources (i.e. hard-wired, non-temporary loads), or one or more electrical receptacles. In some embodiments, the AC distribution wiring system 2800-2806 is designed in a split-phase configuration with three current carrying conductors (Line 1, Line 2, and Neutral) having Line-to-Neutral (L-N) voltage of nominally 110~120 AC volts root-mean- squared (V RMS) and Line-to-Line (L-L) voltage of nominally 110~120 AC volts root-mean- squared (V RMS). In other embodiments, the AC distribution wiring system is designed in a single-phase configuration with two current carrying conductors (Line 1 and Neutral) having Line-to-Neutral (L-N) voltage of nominally 110~277 AC volts root-mean-squared (V RMS). In other embodiments, the AC distribution wiring system is designed in a three-phase wye configuration with four current carrying conductors (Line 1, Line 2, Line 3, and Neutral) having Line-to-Neutral (L-N) voltage of nominally 110~277 AC volts root-mean-squared (V RMS) and Line-to-Line (L-L) voltage of nominally 208~480 AC volts root-mean-squared (V RMS). In some embodiments, a premises-level microgrid is included in the premises distribution system 2804, containing components for islanding (i.e. via an MID) 2826 and, in some embodiments, also containing onsite solar photovoltaic (PV) generation device(s) 2830b and an onsite centralized battery energy storage system (BESS) 2830a.Power system architecture[000307] In some embodiments, nanogrid system 2832a-d is electrically connected to premises AC wiring via a power cable containing Line (L), Neutral (N), and Protective Earth (PE) or Ground (GND) conductors connected to an AC power receptacle 2820a, 2820c, 2820d (e.g., NEMA 5-15R, NEMA 5-20R, NEMA 6-15R, NEMA 6-20R, NEMA 6-30R, NEMA 6-50R, NEMA 10-30R, NEMA 10-50R, NEMA 14-20R, NEMA 14-30R, NEMA 14-50R when used in the North American region). In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 28b, the system’s electrical connection to the premises wiring system can be achieved by making a direct-wired connection 2822 via a set of branch conductors connected to an overcurrent protection device (OCPD, e.g. circuit breaker) with no intervening power plug and receptacle system.[000308] A component of the nanogrid system design is a DC-to-AC power converter (DCAC) 2838a-d, 220 engineered to convert between a common internal high voltage DC(HVDC) bus 2848a-d (nominally 300-600 VDC) and a common internal AC bus 2846a-d (nominally 110~277 VAC root-mean-squared L-N). In certain embodiments, the main DCAC is capable of operating in parallel (i.e. having synchronous voltage, frequency, and phase) with the external AC voltage source provided by connection to the premises electrical system. This configuration ability is controlled by an onboard power conversion controller 2826 that allows for optional power export to the home / building or a premises microgrid, enhancing the system’s versatility and integration with existing energy infrastructure.[000309] In some embodiments, the main DCAC is designed to be bi-directional, enabling it to route current in both directions — AC-to-DC for battery charging and DC-to-AC for powering appliances and / or enhancing power with the building electrical distribution system. This bi-directional functionality supports efficient energy storage management, allowing the onboard battery to be charged from both DC sources and the AC grid. The bi-directional DCAC is also implemented as a hybrid inverter, also known as a multimode inverter, capable of software-defined operating modes in both grid-forming (voltage-forming) and grid-following (voltage-following, current source) modes. This dual-mode operation allows the system to function independently or in synchronization with a grid or premises microgrid, providing seamless transitions between grid-connected and off-grid operation at the nanogrid level. The bi-directional DCAC may be based on various converter topologies, including full-bridge, halfbridge, H-bridge, or multilevel designs, each selected to optimize performance, efficiency, and reliability depending on the specific application.[000310] The DCAC system may be configured for operation at various L-N AC voltages, frequency, and power factors to support regional needs, application needs, and to enable “smart inverter” functions (e.g. as defined in IEEE 1547 and UL 1741 standards) to provide valuable distributed grid services value and Virtual Power Plant (VPP) control. For embodiments targeting refrigeration and freezer applications, the main DCAC outputs singlephase power (e.g., 110~120 VAC L-N, 230~240 VAC L-N) to match the AC input of refrigeration appliances, ensuring compatibility and efficiency. In other embodiments such as those targeting HVAC applications, the DCAC is designed to supply split-phase AC power (e.g., 120 / 240 VAC L-N-L) with corresponding power receptacles, facilitating its use in residential and commercial environments where such configurations are common. The DCAC's power conversion controls are specially designed to effectively handle AC inrush current when inductive loads, such as compressors and motors, are turned on, preventing any overloading of the battery or power conversion circuitry while the system is intentionally islanded.[000311] The system is designed to supply reliable, safe, seamless backup power (i.e. intentional islanding with DCAC in a grid-forming mode) to connected loads, including AC loads, in the event of power loss or power quality issues with the connected premises wiring system. Isolation of the bi-directional hybrid DCAC output (i.e. the common internal AC bus 2846a-d) from the nanogrid system’s AC supply connection 2820a-d, 2822 for intentional islanding and safety purposes is managed by an integrated software-controllable grid disconnect relay (i.e. an MID) 2836a-d, 2922. To manage this set of functions, the system is designed with a MCS 2874a-d and MID system for monitoring power and voltage quality, and asserting MID disconnection and reconnection based on a software program within the onboard memory and processor. The MID relay(s) may be of a form designed to simultaneously disconnect only line conductor(s), or of a form designed to simultaneously disconnect line and neutral conductors.[000312] In some embodiments, the nanogrid system contains one or more integrated loads which are designed to be supplied with AC voltage (AC loads, e.g. motors, compressors, fans, lighting, heating elements, pumps, solenoids, transformers, electronic controllers, valves, induction coils) 2852a-d, 2966, along with one or more AC power receptacles hosted on the nanogrid system 2864a-d, 2938 to allow users to connect external AC loads 2860a-d via a power cable and plug 2942. Flexible connection of loads by users is a feature of the nanogrid system, offering users the ability to power essential devices in the event of a grid power outage. These receptacles are also designed for general use irrespective of power outages and are designed to provide convenience, energy metering 2878a-d, and control via dedicated software-controlled 2874a-d power relays 2876a-d, 2932. Additionally, some embodiments include outlet-integrated overcurrent protection devices, such as resettable thermal fuses, to enhance safety. Receptacles may be equipped with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFC1) protection, providing added safety for general use with other AC appliances like countertop appliances. In some embodiments, integrated AC loads are also designed with metering and power control circuitry 2882a-d to allow for greater operational insight, power management, and energy management.[000313] The nanogrid system is designed with energy metering circuitry 2936 including voltage sensors, current sensors (e.g. a combination of current transformers, shunts, Hall effect sensors, Rogowski coils, resistive current sensors, fluxgate sensors, magnetoresistive sensors), and power metering integrated circuits. Energy and power metering is crucial for the system to accurately monitor and manage energy usage, improve performance, enable efficient operation, and provide valuable data for grid interaction, billing, and load management. Insome embodiments, metering points (in particular the point of AC power exchange with the premises wiring system 2880a-d) are designed and calibrated for high accuracy (e.g. compliant with standards such as ANSI C12.1 and ANSI C12.20) to provide revenue-accurate monitoring for billing and VPP use cases.[000314] The system’s HVDC bus allows for power exchange between the DC-input of the DCAC, DC nanogrid sources, DC energy storage, DC loads, and DC receptacles. DC energy storage (i.e. electrochemical battery module(s)) is another feature of this system, allowing for flexible management and dispatch of energy with or without an external AC source voltage present. The system is designed with one or more DC battery modules 2840a-d including battery cells, interconnection, overcurrent protection, battery monitoring circuitry, and a BMS 2930 paired with a bidirectional DCDC converter designed to regulate voltage, regulate current, manage battery charging and discharging cycles, and connect the battery system to the common HVDC bus.[000315] The system is designed to host one or more rechargeable battery packs 2928 constructed from one or more battery cells — such as Lithium-ion (Li-ion), Lithium solid state, or Sodium-ion (Na-ion) battery cells — for bulk energy storage and to act as a primary power source for the operating the system and supplying power to connected devices. The system is designed such that the battery can source power to the system in the event of an grid / microgrid power outage and / or when the primary AC power source (i.e. the grid / microgrid supply via the building’s AC receptacle). Energy storage capacity is designed to maintain a manageable weight and size when integrated within the integrated system, to allow easy installation. The battery is designed with sufficient capacity to source several hours or days of backup power, which can be controlled as needed based on an expected need as specified by a user or power supply company / hardware, and / or as determined by the system based on prior events. In some embodiments targeting refrigerator / freezer / washer / dryer applications, the battery’s usable energy capacity is between 1-5 kilowatt-hours (kWh). In some applications targeting HVAC and water heating applications, the battery’s usable energy capacity is between 3-10 (kWh). Similarly, battery charging and discharging power and cycle life are tailored to the application. Energy storage capacity and battery sizing and chemistry may vary across embodiments to serve the given appliance-integration application, and may be supplemented by add-on battery module(s).[000316] In some embodiments, the nanogrid system is designed to support the connection of one or more DC generation sources 2950, such as external solar PV panels (including PV panel strings or sets of PV panel strings) 2872a-d, to provide sustained off-gridoperation, local energy management, and energy optimization. The system incorporates one or more Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) circuits 2844a-d using either boost or boost / buck converter topology, ensuring efficient energy harvesting. To facilitate easy and flexible deployment, especially in power emergencies, the system features accessible connection points for temporary PV panels, using a system suitably rated touch-safe DC electrical receptacles and connectors 2870a-d (e.g. MC4, cigarette jacks, barrel jacks, or other appropriate styles).[000317] In some embodiments, the nanogrid system contains one or more integrated loads 2854a-d designed to be supplied with DC voltage (DC loads, such as battery chargers, DC motors, DC compressors, fans, resistive heating elements, LED lighting, DC fans, electronic controllers, sensors) 2968-2970. Most appliances, including refrigerators, commonly use AC motors due to their lower cost. Inclusion and use of DC loads in this design introduces several advantages over traditional AC appliances. DC motors, particularly brushless DC (BLDC) motors, offer several advantages that make them a compelling alternative including (a) Efficiency: DC motors often exhibit higher efficiency compared to their AC counterparts, largely due to reduced friction losses. This efficiency translates into better performance and energy savings. Moreover, DC motors provide more precise speed control, which can optimize the performance of the compressor and the refrigeration cycle; (b) Control: One of the significant benefits of DC motors is their ability to offer variable speed control. This feature allows the compressor to adjust its speed based on the cooling demand, leading to energy savings and reduced wear and tear on the system. Additionally, the precise speed control of DC motors results in quieter operation, which is highly advantageous in noise-sensitive environments; (c) Torque: DC motors generally deliver higher starting torque, making them beneficial for starting the compressor under load. This high starting torque enables the compressor to start and function efficiently even under demanding conditions and conditions when available supply power is limited (e.g. in an outage, supplied only by battery or solar PV). In some embodiments, LVDC load supply circuits are designed with metering 2886a-d and power control circuitry 2884a-d to allow for greater operational insight, power management, and energy management. [000318] In some embodiments, one or more internal loads 2892 may be designed to be supplied by either the common AC bus or HVDC bus using a switching relay 2894. This design allows for flexible power distribution, enabling the system to seamlessly switch between AC and DC power sources based on availability or efficiency considerations. By accommodating both types of power sources, the system can optimize energy usage, enhance reliability, and provide greater adaptability to varying power conditions or requirements. This approach alsofacilitates integration with a diverse range of internal and external components, ensuring that the system can maintain consistent operation and performance regardless of the power source. [000319] In some embodiments, the system includes one or more connection points 438a- d, 2958 to the HVDC bus without an intervening DCDC converter to allow for direct and modular addition of battery modules, solar inputs with MPPT, and DC loads. This design enables straightforward expansion and integration of additional components, facilitating flexible system scaling and simplified connectivity for various energy sources and consumption devices. These connection points are designed for maximum user safety and non-damaging use (e.g. with effective OCPD, touch-safe connectors, reverse polarity protection). The types of connections that may be used include wire pressure screw connectors, blade connectors, plug and receptacle connectors, blind-mate connectors, and other suitably rated and reliable electrical connection methods.[000320] In some embodiments, the system is designed with a low voltage DC (LVDC) bus 2850a-d supplied via one or more DCDC buck converters 2858a-d connected to the HVDC bus. This LVDC bus supports a common low voltage system, which supplies power to various components such as communications and compute units 2874a-d, control units, LVDC loads such as sensors, lighting and displays, motors, actuators, fans etc. 2856a-d, and user-accessible power receptacles like USB ports 2866a. In some embodiments, LVDC load supply circuits are designed with metering 2890a-d and power control circuitry 2882a-d to allow for greater operational insight, power management, and energy management. The LVDC bus enables efficient power distribution and management for these low voltage devices, ensuring seamless integration and operation within the system.[000321] The DCDC converter(s) 2934 integrated within the system may be designed using isolated, non-isolated, resonant, boost, or boost-buck topologies, depending on the requirements of the power conversion process. These converters are critical for managing the different voltage levels and ensuring efficient power transfer between the DC sources, storage systems, and the DCAC. The power conversion circuitry in both the DCAC and DCDC converters utilizes advanced solid-state switching technology, with some embodiments incorporating Silicon Carbide (SiC) MOSFETs, IGBTs, or a combination of these components. These technologies are selected to achieve high efficiency, fast switching speeds, and robust thermal management, thereby helping to maintain the longevity and reliability of the system.[000322] In certain embodiments, the system is further enhanced by incorporating advanced thermal management strategies, such as liquid cooling loops, convective heat sinks, or thermoelectric cooling, to maintain desired operating temperatures for both the powerelectronics and the battery modules. These thermal management systems are integrated to enable the system to operate efficiently under various environmental conditions, improving both performance and lifespan. The inclusion of such features not only supports high energy conversion and storage but also allows the system to be used in more demanding applications, such as grid stabilization, peak shaving, and emergency backup power.[000323] In some embodiments, the design includes additional components for electrical safety, such as overcurrent protection devices (OCPDs) 2834a-d that feature monitoring capabilities and are either resettable or replaceable. These safety measures are implemented to safeguard the system from electrical faults, ensuring reliable operation and protecting both the equipment and users from potential hazards. The integration of these safety features enhances the overall resilience and durability of the system by preventing damage due to overcurrent conditions and allowing for easy maintenance or restoration of protection functionality.Thermal System Architecture Overview[000324] Electrical demand from loads within the internal thermal system (e.g. compressors, fans, blowers, pumps controlled valves, sensors, resistive heating elements, humidifiers / dehumidifiers, solenoids, thermostats, electronic controllers, electric motors, actuators, pressure switches, etc.) are supplied by one or a combination of connected sources: solar PV, internal battery energy storage, and / or AC supply input from building, as determined by the system’s programmable logic to meet aligned objectives of the nanogrid’s TMS, EMS, and AMS software systems.[000325] For high system energy efficiency, the thermal system can have an integrated design to manage heating and / or cooling needs of the power system (i.e. power conversion and battery modules) along with the integrated loads (e.g. refrigeration, cooling, heating, and fluid movement systems). At a high level, the thermal system is designed to achieve the goals of cooling or heating one or more target internal component(s) / module(s) (e.g. battery modules, power electronics modules, condenser coils) and / or a target fluid volume inside of or proximate to this system. This can be achieved using a combination of passive and active thermal management methods, including convective heat sinks, radiation surfaces, and / or thermal conduction pathways to the ambient environment, and / or compressor-based refrigeration cycles, phase change materials, liquid cooling loops, thermoelectric coolers, and controlled airflow systems.[000326] In some embodiments, the nanogrid’s internal thermal load architecture is partially designed to provide refrigeration (i.e., cool the air volume of) one or more refrigeration compartments while simultaneously expelling waste heat to the ambient environment. In doing so, the system achieves refrigeration and / or freezing of food and beverages to preserve freshness and / or medicine at a controlled temperature. In some embodiments, the same thermal system is designed to periodically and automatically defrost one or more refrigeration compartments. In some embodiments, the same thermal system is designed to provide one or all chilled, hot, and / or boiling potable water tap(s). In some embodiments, the same thermal system is designed to make ice cubes using a chilling system and heating grid. In certain designs, the system may employ two or more compressors to independently manage different cooling zones within the appliance, such as separate refrigeration and freezer compartments. This multi-compressor setup enhances energy efficiency by allowing each compressor to operate only when its specific compartment requires cooling, providing better temperature control, reducing wear on the compressors, and increasing the overall longevity of the system.[000327] In some embodiments, the nanogrid’s internal thermal load architecture is partially designed to provide space conditioning by regulating the temperature and humidity of an interior environment, such as a room or building. This can be achieved by using a combination of active methods like compressor-based heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, heat pumps, and dehumidifiers, alongside passive strategies such as thermal insulation, radiant barriers, and strategically placed thermal mass. The system may also include air filtration and ventilation components to improve indoor air quality while maintaining desired temperature settings for comfort and energy efficiency.[000328] In some embodiments, the nanogrid’s internal thermal load architecture is partially designed to provide domestic hot water by heating water to a target temperature and distributing it through plumbing systems to various fixtures such as sinks, showers, and appliances. This can be achieved using methods including electric resistance heaters and / or heat pump water heaters. The system may also incorporate insulation for hot water storage tanks and pipes to minimize heat loss, as well as mixing valves to provide safe delivery temperatures.[000329] In some embodiments, the nanogrid’s internal thermal load architecture is partially designed to provide heat for washing and / or drying garments by heating water for washing cycles and air for drying cycles. This can be achieved through electric resistance heating elements and / or a heat pump system. The system may also include moisture sensors,energy recovery features, and advanced insulation to optimize energy use and improve garment care during the washing and drying processes.[000330] In some embodiments, the nanogrid’s internal thermal architecture is designed as an integrated system that not only manages the heating and cooling needs of various appliance / load functions but also optimizes the performance of the integrated battery energy storage components and power conversion system using a combination of active and passive thermal design. In some embodiments, this can be achieved via forced airflow from a stirring fan. In certain embodiments with a refrigeration loop (e.g. for refrigeration, for space conditioning, or where a heat pump system is present) the system is designed to provide cooling or pre-heating of battery components to enable them to operate within their ideal temperature range, thereby enhancing power performance and extending operational lifetime. Additionally, this method can cool power electronics, improving efficiency and maintaining operational temperature limits. The thermal system supports various appliance functions, such as refrigeration, space conditioning, and water heating, by efficiently redistributing waste heat or utilizing pre-cooled refrigerants. For example, waste heat from power conversion can be redirected to assist in water heating or defrosting processes, while a stirring fan that draws heat away from condenser coils can also help manage the temperature of battery modules. This integrated approach enables the thermal and power systems to work seamlessly together, enhancing energy efficiency, prolonging component lifespan, and allowing for improved integration with the appliance's load and functional requirements.[000331] In some embodiments, methods for cooling battery and / or power electronics modules are realized via indirect interaction with a refrigeration loop system (i.e. the thermal load system) via one of or a combination of active or passive convective and conductive heat transfer strategies as illustrated in FIGs. 36al - 36a4 and 36bl-36b3. When the nanogrid system includes one or more refrigerated compartments 3600 (e.g. as with a refrigerator or refrigerator / freezer) within the shared mechanical enclosure 3604, the battery and power electronics module(s) 3608 may be designed with a heat sink (e.g. constructed from Aluminum, Copper, or other effective thermally conductive solid material(s)) 3610 which forms an effective thermal bridge 3612 to the battery and power electronics module(s) to allow heat ("Q") to flow conductively into the refrigerated air volume. In some embodiments to allow for greater control overheat flow, active strategies are employed. In some embodiments, a closed- loop fluid line 3614a-b (e.g. containing water or other coolant mixture) with circulating pump 3616 is designed to exchange heat with 3614a the battery and power electronics module(s) 3608 and then be carried via the loop 3614b to the interior refrigerated compartment 3606 forcooling before being returned to the battery and power electronic module(s). In other embodiments, an open-loop heat exchange system is employed to use a fan or blower 3620 to draw ambient air 3624a into a duct system 3618 within the enclosure 3604 and thermally coupled to the interior refrigerated compartment and / or evaporator coil(s) to pre-cool air before reaching the battery and power electronics module(s) 3608 and exchanging heat 3622 and then being exhausted back to ambient 3624b. In some embodiments where the system 3604 includes a freezer compartment (i.e. a refrigeration compartment cooled at or below zero degrees Celsius) 3632, a closed-loop fluid line (e.g. containing water or other coolant mixture) may be designed to allow for both cooling of the battery and power electronics module(s) 3608 or heating of the freezer compartment 3632 to provide a defrosting function while reducing energy usage by other heating components (e.g. resistive heating elements). This may be achieved by a valve 3630 which selectively routes the output line of the circulating pump 3628, fed by the loop 3626a thermally coupled with the battery and power electronics module(s), to either a refrigerator compartment 3606 or via a secondary loop 3634 to the freezer compartment 3632 where the loop has effective thermal coupling to the interior walls of that compartment to melt accumulated ice. When the nanogrid system includes an evaporator coil designed with a blower, fan, or pump for cooling air or water (e.g. as with an air conditioning, HVAC, or heat pump system) 3602 within a shared mechanical enclosure 3636, a heat sink 3642 (e.g. constructed from aluminum, copper, or other effective thermally conductive solid material(s)) may be used to move heat generated at the battery and power electronics module(s) 3640 via a thermal interface 3644 through the heat sink to the evaporator coil 3638 or cooled area around the evaporator coil. In some embodiments, heat may be transferred from the battery and power electronics module(s) via a closed-loop fluid line 3646a (e.g. containing water or other coolant mixture) and circulating pump 3648 to the evaporator coil 3638 or cooled area around the evaporator coil. In other embodiments, cooling of the battery and power electronics module(s) may be achieved via airflow drawn in 3652a from ambient by the evaporator blower 3650, blown over the evaporator coil system 3638 and chilled, and then blown over the battery and power electronics module(s) and associated heat sink(s) 3654a-b before being vented to the proximate space 3652b. In other embodiments illustrated in FIG. 37a, the battery and power electronic(s) modules 3716a may be actively cooled by air blown over 3726a the module by the condenser fan 3724a.[000332] In some embodiments, a method for cooling battery and / or power electronics modules is via direct interaction with a refrigeration loop system (i.e. the thermal load system) via direct coupling with a closed refrigeration loop by routing part of the refrigerant loop to thebattery module and / or power electronics (and / or a heat exchanger block thermally coupled to these modules). This method is illustrated according to several embodiments in FIGs. 37b-f: The refrigeration cycle operates using a reverse Rankine cycle (or reversed Carnot cycle) to move heat from one area to another, typically to cool a designated space. A refrigerant is circulated through a closed loop, undergoing phase changes as it moves through the system. The cycle begins at the compressor 3718b-f, where the refrigerant is compressed, raising its pressure and temperature in the “discharge line” 3720c. The high-pressure, high-temperature gas then flows through the condenser coil 3722b-f, where it releases heat to the surrounding environment 3726b-f and condenses into a high-pressure liquid in the “liquid line” 3728b. This liquid refrigerant passes through a dryer 3730b-f (to remove moisture and contaminants from the refrigerant, containing desiccants that absorb moisture and a filter that traps particles and debris) and an expansion valve 3732b-f, where its pressure drops, causing a significant temperature decrease. The low-pressure, low-temperature liquid 3734b-f then enters the evaporator coil 3736b-f, where it absorbs heat from the space being cooled 3740b-f and evaporates back into a gas (with optional aid in heat transfer by a evaporator fan 3738b-f). Finally, the refrigerant returns to the compressor via the “suction line” 3742b-f, and the cycle repeats. The system creates a high-pressure side (condenser) and a low-pressure side (evaporator), enabling the transfer of heat from one location to another. In some embodiments demonstrated by FIGs. 37b-d, the TMS may increase active cooling to the battery and power electronics module(s) 3716b-d by using a multi-way valve 3744b-d to route the cool refrigerant in the suction line through an auxiliary loop 3748b-d thermally coupled (e.g. via conductive solid blocks, thermal paste, and / or heat exchangers) to the target modules, before returning the refrigerant to the compressor. A one-way valve 3746b-d may be employed to prevent backflow when this auxiliary loop is bypassed. In some embodiments illustrated in FIGs. 37c-d, heat generated by the battery and power electronics module(s) 3716c-d may be routed to another location in the nanogrid system 3754c-d (e.g. a freezer compartment, to provide heat for periodic defrost cycles) via a secondary closed fluid loop 3750c-d (e.g. containing water or other coolant mixture) and circulating pump 3752c-d, controlled by the TMS. This secondary loop serves to simultaneously cool the battery and power electronics module(s) when circulating. In some embodiments illustrated in FIG. 37d, a supplementary electric heat may be included as a supplement or alternative to the secondary loop 3750c-d. In some embodiments illustrated in FIG. 37e, the nanogrid’s thermal load system may employ two or more closed refrigerant loops (e.g. with a high-pressure side condenser 3722e, 3770 and a low-pressure side evaporator 3736e, 3772). In this design, the battery and power electronicsmodule(s) 3716e may be directly coupled to one refrigerant loop via a controlled auxiliary bypass loop 3744e, 3746e, 3748e. This design allows for efficient use of additional compressorbased refrigerant loops with a lower duty cycle and / or lower heat transfer rate, such as would be designed for a refrigeration compartment with desired temperature above that of the other refrigeration loops. In some embodiments illustrated in FIG. 37f, the nanogrid system thermal load architecture may contain a heat pump (HP) system with reversing valve 3774 to allow for reconfiguring an indoor coil 3722f and indoor coil fan 3724f to provide either heating or cooling 3726f, with the outdoor coil 3736f and outdoor coil fan 3738f providing an opposite heating / cooling function 3740f. To enable this function, along with the reversing valve, an additional expansion valve 3776b and one-way bypass valves 3778a-b at each expansion valve is included in the design. In such designs 3710, a similar heat exchange strategy with the battery and power electronics module(s) 3716f can be achieved by designing the rerouting valve 3744f, auxiliary bypass loop 3748f, and one-way backflow prevention valve 3746fso that they connect after the reversing valve and before the compressor 3718f input (i.e. the low- pressure side).[000333] In other embodiments where the nanogrid thermal system includes open-loop supply from domestic water (e.g. for water heating, dish washing, or clothes washing) illustrated in FIG. 37g, this water loop may be used for heat exchange with other elements of the nanogrid system. In this design, domestic water supply 3780a-b connected to the nanogrid system pressurized by an optional water pump 3782a-b may be directed through an auxiliary loop 3788a-b in thermal contact with battery and power electronics module(s) 3716g via one or more valves 3790a-b, 3794 controlled by the TMS along with optional backflow-prevention valve(s) 3792. This auxiliary loop serves to provide cooling to the battery and power electronics while simultaneously preheating feed water prior to an in-line heating element 3784a-b, such as a resistive heater or heat pump coil, before being sent to the building water supply or being used by the nanogrid system 3786a-b or routed to a drainage line 3796 via an overflow or drain line valve 3798.[000334] As described above, the nanogrid system’s electrical loads may be designed to operate on either AC or DC power, depending on the application and design goals. Compressors and fans, which are critical for cooling and air circulation, can be either AC or DC. In some embodiments, the system’s compressors, fans, pumps, heaters, actuators, sensors, etc. are designed to be powered by DC to allow direct supply from the common DC bus i.e. via the battery or solar PV system of the nanogrid, or through AC from the premises supply connection, which is converted to DC by the DCAC converter. This setup enhances the system's adaptabilityto different power sources and improves energy efficiency. In some embodiments, the system may incorporate variable speed DC compressors and motors, enabling more efficient and granular temperature control, which can lead to significant energy savings and improved performance. This flexibility in power source and control options allows the thermal system to seamlessly integrate with the nanogrid, enhancing both its efficiency and applicability in different settings. To confer more flexibility, in some embodiments resistance heaters within the system may be configured to run on both AC or DC, offering flexibility in design and the ability to tailor the system to specific power supply scenarios, for example, using AC when the present from the premises wiring system to reduce AC-to-DC conversion losses from these heating loads.[000335] In various embodiments, the system may be designed to utilize different refrigerants tailored to specific performance and environmental criteria. The selection of refrigerants within this system is carefully engineered to balance thermodynamic efficiency, safety, material compatibility, and environmental impact. For instance, the system may employ refrigerants such as hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), including but not limited to R-134a and R- 410A, which offer effective cooling properties while adhering to lower global warming potential (GWP) requirements in certain applications. In alternative embodiments, the system may incorporate natural refrigerants, such as propane (R-290) or ammonia (R-717), which are characterized by minimal or zero GWP, thereby aligning with stringent environmental regulations aimed at reducing contributions to climate change. The system is further adaptable to accommodate advancements in refrigerant technology, allowing for the integration of nextgeneration refrigerants as they become available. This flexibility enables the system to maintain high performance and reliability while minimizing its environmental footprint across various applications. Additionally, the design considers safety aspects related to refrigerant use, such as flammability and toxicity, ensuring that the refrigerants are compatible with system materials and comply with relevant safety standards. By offering the capability to use a range of refrigerants, the system is positioned to meet diverse operational needs while supporting global efforts to mitigate environmental impacts associated with refrigeration and heat pump technologies.[000336] The nanogrid system leverages advanced sensing technologies integrated into its TMS 3500, shown in an embodiment in 35a, and AMS, to provide desired performance, safety, and efficiency. The TMS utilizes temperature, pressure, and flow rate sensors strategically placed throughout the refrigeration loop and other thermal system components to monitor and control the operation of thermal loads like the compressor (e.g. duty cycleand / or speed), ensuring it operates safely and efficiently. These critical signals are continuously fed into the TMS and AMS software via the nanogrid system's control circuitry, allowing for real-time data processing and responsive control.[000337] The TMS is designed to collect a variety of input data, such as by monitoring the appliance state and appliance-connected sensors 3506, monitoring ambient air temperature via integrated temperature sensors 3510, monitoring air temperature internal to the nanogrid device / appliance at one or more locations 3512, and / or monitoring temperature internal to the nanogrid device’s battery module and power electronics components (e.g. the DCAC converter) at one or more locations 3514. Additionally, the nanogrid system may receive inputs to the TMS via user-provided input 3508, via system status monitoring 3516, and / or via loading programmed configuration parameters from memory 3518. Input data are received and processed 3520 by the embedded processor module(s) 2906. Once processed, the nanogrid system may take actions to modify power, such as by varying charge / discharge power of the onboard storage battery 3522, modifying input / output power or power factor of the DCAC converter 3524, managing power to internal loads 3534, and / or managing power to external plugged-in loads 3536 when applicable. When applicable, the nanogrid system may also take action to modify power to internal loads, such as by turning on or off compressor and fan system(s) 3526, modifying the speed of compressor and fan system(s) 3528, changing the state of internal actuators or valves within the thermal system 3530, and / or turning on or off resistive heating elements within the thermal system 3532. Additionally, after processing energy and power data and settings, the system may be updated configuration settings 3540, log data to memory 3542, and / or update user interfaces 3536 including displays, status LEDs, and / or externally accessible APl(s).[000338] FIG. 35b shows an example of processing logic 3502 that can be employed by the TMS for purposes of maintaining the system’s software-defined thermal and operational setpoints and limits. Once this software logic initializes 3544, data is collected from integrated sensors to measure temperature, humidity, and / or pressure at one or more locations within the system 3546, and the readings are compared to setpoint(s) 3548. The processor then determines if these measured values are within range 3550, and if they are continuous measurement continues. If they are not in range, the nanogrid system takes action to modify power, state, and / or control strategy of the TMS 3552. At this point, the system also evaluates if any critical threshold limits or times are exceeded 3554, and if this is determined to be true, the system issues a notification to the user 3556 such as via onboard user interface and / or dashboard such as a smartphone app via the onboard wireless connections maintained by thesystem. In this way, users are made aware of any performance issues that may affect the systems performance or safety.[000339] Similarly, FIG. 35c shows an example of processing logic 3504 that can be employed by the TMS related to off-grid, intentional islanding operational modes wherein the thermal system and its setpoints and energy usage may be modified based on energy source(s) and storage to provide reliable operation throughout power outages. Once this software module initializes 3558, the system ascertains whether the nanogrid is in an off-grid (i.e. intentionally islanded) state 3560, and if not, the system proceeds to a default operation mode 3562. If the system is operating off-grid, the system considers whether the battery state of energy (SOE) is above a defined minimum setting 3564, and if this condition is false, indicating insufficient energy reserve to provide backup power to loads associated with the nanogrid, the nanogrid system ceases grid-forming on the high voltage DC (HVDC) bus and AC bus 3566 until a source is made available for charging the battery, such as voltage at the DC solar input. Conversely, if the minimum SOE check passes, the system evaluates if systems temperatures are within a defined setpoint range 3568. In order to efficiently utilize stored energy while off- grid, the system is designed to limit power to the nanogrid’s AC and DC thermal system loads 3570 when setpoints are within the defined off-grid range, and conversely increase power to these loads 3572 if setpoints are not within this defined range.[000340] Temperature sensing methods within the system may include thermistors, RTDs, or thermocouples, located at key points such as the evaporator, condenser, and compressor, as well as within the refrigeration compartments and ambient environment. This data allows the AMS to implement precise control strategies to maintain setpoints and adjust system behavior based on user preferences and ambient conditions, including seasonal variations and predicted environmental changes.[000341] The AMS uses this sensor data to manage appliance operation, dynamically adjusting settings to meet user-defined preferences while optimizing energy usage as illustrated in FIG. 35a. Meanwhile, the TMS also employs these sensors to manage the thermal state of the nanogrid’s battery and power electronics, adjusting cooling or heating control strategies described above as necessary to maintain desired operating temperatures and prolong system lifespan. These sophisticated control methods enable both the nanogrid and connected appliances to operate efficiently, safely, and in alignment with user needs and environmental conditions.Compute, Software, and Communication System[000342] A nanogrid system in at least some embodiments includes a powerful onboard compute system to enable the intelligent set of system behaviors including but not limited to: controlled cooling, controlled heating, mechanical movement, controlled fluid flow, energy monitoring, energy optimization, energy and power management, thermal optimization, battery charge / discharge optimization, solar power optimization, software-enabled safety functions, data logging and storage, system performance monitoring, management of one or more wireless network connections, internet connectivity, telemetry, interoperability with other software-enabled systems on-premises, performing over-the-air (OTA) software updates, user interface display. The compute system is designed to support flexible, programmable behaviors via software programming and storage of software routines.[000343] An example of the on-board compute system is shown in FIG. 29a. The onboard compute system 2900 exists on one or more printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs) enclosed within the system’s housing and includes one or more integrated circuits (ICs), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), local memory storage 2908, a real-time clock 2910, and supporting electrical componentry. In some embodiments, the compute system design leverages a programmable Linux-capable system-on-chip (SoC) in conjunction with one or more programmable co-processors 2906 running real-time operating systems (RTOS). Data collection for use by the system’s software is facilitated by an array of environmental sensors 2918 including temperature, humidity, position, air quality, and more. Data collection specific to energy and power data is facilitated by energy metering circuitry 2936 including current sensors, voltage dividers, and power metering ASICs. The system’s SoC(s), lC(s), ASlC(s), memory units, communication modules, and processors are designed to exchange data with one another (i.e. communicate using software) via one or more of the following methods: SP1, 12C, USB, RS485, RS232, CAN bus, Ethernet, and other serial protocols.[000344] To provide connection to the Internet, connection to back-end (i.e. Cloud) software systems 3006, connection to client web and smartphone applications 3018, and / or connection to other TCP / IP based software systems on-premises (e.g. over the local area network, LAN), the system includes one or more wireless modules including radio transmitter and receiver modules and wireless antenna. In some embodiments, the system includes a WiFi radio 2912 (i.e. IEEE 802.11) capable of wireless communication 3008 via 2.4 or 2.4 and 5 GHz networks to a local area network (LAN) router(s) 3010 within the premises. To reduce reliance on consumer internet systems and provide higher reliability internet connectivity, some embodiments of the system integrate Cellular module (e.g. CAT NB-loT, CAT M, LTE) 2916 which maintains connection 3012 to the Internet via a local cellular communicationnetwork 3014. The system is designed to support dynamic evaluation and routing between one or more available Internet connection routes 3016, 3028. The nanogrid system 3002 is designed to leverage wireless communication to maintain a connection to 3030 and exchange data with one or more other on-premises nanogrid systems 3004.[000345] The nanogrid system's robust and flexible software and communication architecture 3000 allows for extensive interoperability with both Cloud and on-premises software systems. The nanogrid system(s) are designed to exchange data with other 3rd-party on-premises software systems 3018 (such as via the LAN 3026) related to energy management and occupant experience, including Home Energy Management Systems (HEMS), Building Management Systems , solar PV systems, premises-level MCS, premises-level PCS, and Human Machine Interfaces (HM1) such as voice assistants or dashboard systems. In some embodiments, the system is capable of direct connection to client applications 3018 by providing a direct connection to one or more nanogrid systems, such as via a Wi-Fi access point (AP), Bluetooth connection, or Thread / Matter connection.[000346] In some embodiments, a cellular module including global positioning system (GPS) functionality is used to infer the installed location of the device, allowing the system to infer location specific details about the local grid, such as grid code, grid voltage, grid frequency, grid operator details, and more.[000347] In some embodiments, the system is designed to allow easy direct userconnection of external wireless modules 2962 and / or compute modules 2964 to extend the functionality of the system over time. This can be achieved with specially designed modular connections 2960 providing both low voltage DC power and connection to a communication bus (e.g. USB) via a pluggable connector (e.g. USB type C). In some embodiments, similar expansion of capabilities can be achieved by wirelessly pairing sensor modules 2952 which contain their own integrated power source, such as an onboard battery.Energy Management System (EMS) & Power Control System (PCS)[000348] The integrated design of the nanogrid system — incorporating co-located loads, generation, and storage plus software-enabled logic to intelligently participate within a home / building’s energy ecosystem and with the broader utility power grid — creates high granularity of power and energy management within the built environment. This control can be deployed to create utility bill savings, for example, by shifting consumption from the utility grid to times of lower pricing, by aligning load consumption with onsite solar generation, bystoring onsite generation and dispatching that stored energy later, and / or by reducing apparent power demand at the building utility meter to reduce demand charges.[000349] Management and optimization of energy usage, storage, and supply related to the nanogrid is controlled by the system’s EMS, including programmable software and electrical circuitry to measure, calculate, and modulate power flow within the nanogrid system. The software-defined nature of the EMS provides an exceptional degree of flexibility and adaptability based on user goals, system constraints, and real-time conditions within the nanogrid system and within the premises, as shown by FIGs. 32a-m. When the nanogrid system 3224a-m, (which includes onboard DCAC converter 3226a-m, MID 3228a-m, energy storage 3232a-m, and one or more of: DC-connected solar 3230a-m, embedded DC loads 3234a-m, DC plug-connected loads 3236a-m, embedded AC loads 3238a-m or plug-connected AC loads 3240a-m) is connected to the premises wiring system 3244a-m (which may connect to one or more of: utility grid 3246a-m, behind-the-meter loads 3252a-m, behind-the-meter solar photovoltaic system(s) 3248a-m or behind-the-meter energy storage system(s) 3250a-m) the EMS may orchestrate the system 3902 to provide net power import 3200-3202, net power export 3204-3206, or no net export (i.e. no current flow) 3208-3210 to the building electrical system via the nanogrid’s AC supply connection. When the nanogrid system is disconnected from the premises wiring system (i.e. when the nanogrid’s MID is opened), the EMS manages power flow between loads, sources, and generation within and connected to the nanogrid system. When a premises-level microgrid is present (i.e. MID and genera tion / sto rage are present upstream of the nanogrid system), the nanogrid system is designed to ascertain the islanding state of this other microgrid system, and the nanogrid EMS may provide net power export 3220-3222 (e.g. to support onsite loads) or provide net power import 3216-3218 (e.g. to charge from excess building-level solar PV system generation) from the building.[000350] An example of software-defined interactions with a premises-level microgrid system, performed by a nanogrid system, are shown in FIG. 33. The system is designed to collect a variety of input data such as via software-defined communication with a 3rd-party Microgrid Control System 3302 (such as a centralized battery energy storage system) to gather information about building-level islanding, energy, power, and status of other behind-the- meter Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) such as solar systems, as well as via measurements made by the nanogrid system such as: AC voltage and frequency proximate to the system 3304, appliance state and appliance sensors 3306, integrated energy and power sensors 3310, system internal mode and operating status 3312, inputs from users 3308 made via onboard user interfaces or external platforms such as a smartphone application, and / or by loadingprogrammed configuration parameters 3314. Inputs data are received and processed 3316 by the embedded processor module(s) 2906. Once processed, the nanogrid system may take actions to modify power such as by varying power to the onboard storage battery to cause it to charge 3318, varying power to the onboard storage battery to cause it to discharge 3320, supplying power to connected AC loads from onboard energy sources like storage battery and / or solar 3322, supplying power to connected AC loads from the main AC input 3324, controlling the MID relay to intentionally island the nanogrid system 3326, managing power to internal AC and / or DC loads 3328 such as by actuating relays or electrical actuators or varying software-defined power transfer protocols (e.g. USB Power Delivery) 3328, managing power to external plugged-in AC and / or DC loads 3328 such as by actuating internal relays or electrical actuators or varying software-defined power transfer protocols (e.g. USB Power Delivery) 3330, and / or by sending control messages to external MCSs (e.g. a centralized building energy storage system) 3338. Additionally, after processing energy and power data and settings, the system may take further action to update configuration settings 3334, log data to memory 3340, refine software-defined models to inform system operation 3336, and / or update user interfaces 3332 including displays, status LEDs, and / or externally-accessible APl(s).[000351] PCS orchestration of one or more nanogrid systems in aggregate may be used to achieve a net power change (i.e. increase or decrease) across a defined point within the premises’ electrical wiring system, notably at the Point of Interconnection to the utility power grid, at the location of conductors feeding a utility electric meter and service disconnect.[000352] The intelligent, connected design of the nanogrid system also allows for participation with demand response (DR) and virtual power plant (VPP) systems where DERs receive commands to modulate their power (net consumption or generation) as illustrated in FIG. 39a. In process 3900, the nanogrid system is capable of receiving such a command via one of its internet connection routes, processing the message, storing the message, adjusting performance to achieve the command, measuring result, and confirming actions and measurements with the originator system. To achieve this functionality, the software service is initiated 3904 and continuously monitors for external power requests 3906. If no active requests are received, the EMS proceeds with default operation 3908 determined by the nanogrid systems own internal settings and operational logic. Conversely, when a new external request is received (e.g. via a software API connection, locally or via a cloud-connected server system), the EMS processes the message and extracts the requested target value (e.g., for power, power factor, current, battery state of energy, etc.) 3910, and may notify the user toprovide the user the ability to opt out of external control 3912. If there is no user override action, the EMS system takes action to modify power flow(s) within the nanogrid system such as by increasing or decreasing power from connected solar PV, from battery charge / discharge, to connected and integrated AC and / or DC loads 3914 with the goal of achieving the received target. During this time, the EMS continually reads system power, voltage, current at one or more points to calculate performance against the last received external power target 3916, as well as continually assessing whether the request or event is still active 3918. If the request or event has elapsed or timed out, the system returns to default operation as described above, and if conversely the request / event is active, the EMS calculates if the power target has been achieved 3920 and continually makes power modifications to achieve the target, while respecting internal safety and performance constraints defined by the BMS, TMS, PCS, DCAC, and other internal systems.[000353] The EMS is designed to support flexible charging from onsite solar power, either DC-coupled (e.g. connected to one of the nanogrid system’s DC buses) or AC-coupled (e.g. via the building’s AC electrical distribution wiring). When the EMS is configured to selectively prioritize onsite solar generation, the EMS initializes a process 3902 for solar utilization 3922 which causes the software system to load configuration data and settings 3924 related to power limits, battery state of charge, user preferences, utility tariff information, information about onsite solar generation, etc. The EMS then reads system power, voltage, and current signals at one or more points within the nanogrid system 3926 and first assess and modifies DC-coupled solar PV power generation 3928 before proceeding to assess available AC-coupled solar PV power 3930. Based on the latest data about solar production onsite, the EMS logic causes the nanogrid system to modify power to / from the integrated battery system and / or to controlled loads connected to or integrated within the nanogrid system 3932, while continually assessing changing power information 3926-3932.Microgrid Control System fMCS)[000354] The nanogrid system is designed to seamlessly supply backup power to integrated loads during grid outages as well as to provide protection against anomalies on the connected AC supply such as sustained overvoltage or undervoltage conditions, which could jeopardize performance and longevity of the system. This process of disconnection from the primary AC supply (i.e. the building’s distribution wiring) to provide dedicated voltage-forming to connected loads is called “intentional islanding.” An example of a process 3100 of performing intentional islanding is illustrated in FIG. 31. The nanogrid system continuously monitors thegrid’s AC voltage and frequency at its AC power input 3104 (i.e. at the electrical connection to the premises wiring 2820-22), ensuring an autonomous and prompt response to such disturbances.[000355] Grid disconnection and reconnection are managed through software-controlled logic — the MCS-allowing for adjustable timing and sensitivity to disturbances. In the event of a grid anomaly or outage, the system considers whether the nanogrid system is ready to grid form 3108, and if so, employs an onboard grid disconnect relay (MID) to safely isolate itself 3110 and all connected devices from the grid or microgrid before transitioning to an intentional islanding mode 3112. This isolation can be achieved by disconnecting the currentcarrying AC power conductors at the system's AC input, with the capability to disconnect phase conductors or both phase and neutral conductors simultaneously, depending on regional requirements.[000356] Once disconnected from the grid, the system automatically switches to a gridforming (voltage-forming) mode, providing continuous backup power to both internal AC loads and AC output receptacles while also maintaining power on the internal HVAC and LVDC busses to supply internal DC loads, allow battery charge / discharge, allow injection of solar power when present, and supply DC outputs for charging portable plugged-in devices.[000357] The software-defined EMS actively manages power distribution during backup, limiting consumption to preserve battery life and ensuring total power draw stays within defined limits. Integrated software-controllable AC and DC power relays enable selective control over power delivery to specific internal loads and / or receptacles. To prevent overdischarge or damage, the system will automatically cease power output and shut down non- essential peripherals when the onboard battery reaches a critical low state of energy, or if the battery cannot support the instantaneous demand of connected loads.[000358] When grid voltage returns 3114, or returns within defined acceptable bounds, the system carefully monitors and qualifies the voltage and frequency conditions 3116 before synchronizing to grid voltage, frequency, and phase angle 3118 to seamlessly reconnect by closing the grid disconnect relay 3120 and returning to a grid-following mode 3102. Seamless reconnection is enabled by including line-side and load-side voltage monitoring across each leg of the MID relay in the design.[000359] To ensure sufficient battery energy is always available for backup, users can set a reserve level of battery State of Energy (SOE), dedicating a predetermined percentage of battery capacity specifically for backup purposes. The system's onboard intelligence also provides outage alerts to users via indicators and companion smartphone and webapplications, combining advanced hardware and software capabilities to deliver reliable and user-friendly backup power functionality.Appliance Management System[000360] The system's AMS functions as an advanced monitoring and control system, continuously gathering and analyzing data on aspects of the nanogrid system’s performance to provide users with actionable insights and enhance appliance performance. By leveraging onboard computation and a variety of internal sensors, the AMS collects and processes appliance metadata, power and energy measurements, and environmental data to achieve a range of objectives aimed at optimizing appliance operation and extending the lifespan of internal loads, sources, storage, and electrical and mechanical components. The AMS can be implemented at least partially as software.[000361] The AMS can include one or more algorithms for early failure prediction, an example of which is illustrated in FIG. 34, which may utilize Machine Learning (ML) models and statistical analysis techniques to continuously evaluate the health 3400 of the systems internal AC and DC loads. By analyzing real-time and historical data, these algorithms can identify patterns that may indicate potential failures, allowing the system to alert users to risks before any significant malfunction occurs. This proactive approach to maintenance helps prevent costly repairs and extends the life of appliances. The AMS implements preventative maintenance strategies by developing dynamic models that set operational limits and heuristics for the internal nanogrid loads. It continuously monitors key parameters 3402, such as current draw during various states (startup, run, shutdown, idle), and executes periodic test routines to assess appliance health. Collected data are analyzed to determine if any values are out of range 3404, and if so, the user will be notified 3406 such as by onboard user interface or via monitoring dashboard system(s) or smartphone application(s). Over time, the AMS refines its software models 3406, potentially receiving updates and inputs from cloud services 3410 when internet connectivity is available 3408. The system uses these statistical models to continually evaluate appliance performance 3412, and to detect statistical anomalies and / or drift in key parameters 3414. If critical issues are predicted by the model 3416, the system is designed to enter a safe shutdown state 3418 to minimize harm to equipment, persons, or property and users are notified 3406. This evolving model adapts to seasonal changes, ambient temperature variations, and user interactions, enabling the AMS to provide real-time status reporting and early warnings for potential maintenance needs, ultimately enhancing appliance longevity and performance. In some embodiments, these AMS software models are stored andprocessed entirely on the nanogrid’s local compute system, while in other embodiments some processing is carried out in backend Cloud systems with periodic parameter syncing with the nanogrid’s local compute system.[000362] In addition to failure prediction, the AMS employs real-time environmental sensing and power data to deliver features aimed at mitigating issues due to use, such as leaving doors open or entering erroneous settings. These functionalities are particularly valuable for refrigeration appliances, ensuring users are immediately informed of conditions that could compromise appliance performance or food safety. Notifications can be delivered through visual or auditory alerts on the system, as well as via mobile text messages, email, or companion smartphone and web applications.[000363] In some embodiments, the AMS regularly collects and integrates data from internal refrigeration loads, including temperature and humidity levels within compartments, door state(s), compressor speed and power draw, fan states and current draw, louver and solenoid states, operational status of internal components like ice maker(s) and defrost heater(s), as well lifetime runtime of aforementioned components. This data allows for precise monitoring and control, ensuring high performance, maintenance, and energy efficiency.[000364] For integrated HVAC loads, the AMS may gather data on air temperature and humidity, fan speed, compressor activity, and power consumption, as well as the status of components like heating elements or valves. This comprehensive data collection supports realtime adjustments, early detection of potential issues, and tailored control strategies to maximize comfort and efficiency.[000365] The AMS software can work in tandem with the system's EMS to further optimize energy usage across the nanogrid. By integrating data on power sources, internal and connected loads, and user preferences, the EMS can manage the distribution of energy to reduce costs and environmental impact. For example, a "Clean Power Mode" feature can allow the system to prioritize the use of onsite solar energy — whether AC-coupled or directly DC- connected — thereby minimizing reliance on grid power and lowering the carbon footprint of appliances without compromising key performance aspects of the internal loads.[000366] The AMS also supports additional functionalities such as preventative maintenance alerting, seasonal energy adjustments, and the ability to remember and learn user preferences (e.g., temperature settings, operation modes). These features contribute to a more intelligent, user-friendly system that not only enhances appliance performance but also aligns with energy efficiency and sustainability goals.User Interfaces[000367] The nanogrid system can be designed with a comprehensive user interface (UI) 2924 including display(s), status indicator(s), and button(s) that provides real-time visibility into the state of the system and connected appliances, enabling users to manage and interact with the system effectively. The system’s UI can provide system status and information, interfaces for user interaction and control, and interfaces for controlling the connecting of loads and managing of connected loads. The system’s UI includes (1) on-device visual and auditory signaling, (2) communication and control via an associated smartphone and web application (Mobile and Desktop / Web Apps), (3) via secure APIs for easy device-to-device interaction with other software systems.[000368] The UI can provide detailed insights into the nanogrid system's current operational status, including the state of charge of the battery, grid status, outage conditions, and backup time remaining. It can also display significant appliance information, such as temperature, setpoints, runtime, energy usage, active or historical faults, and the state of components like doors or compressors. This information can be presented clearly to allow users to monitor the performance and health of their appliances and the overall nanogrid system.[000369] In some embodiments, the system includes an onboard screen for displaying detailed information and settings, accompanied by LED status indicators that provide at-a- glance updates on system health and operation. Visual and auditory signals alert users to important changes or conditions, such as power outages or fault detections, ensuring that users remain informed and can respond promptly to any issues.[000370] Users can interact with the system through various input methods, including an onboard screen, LED status indicators, and a companion smartphone app. The interface supports setup flows and settings management, allowing users to configure connectivity, operational modes, and personalization options. Users can also clear faults, for example GFCI trips or software errors, through the UI. The design can enable users to control power output to different receptacles, whether to charge devices like smartphones during a power outage or to manage energy consumption based on solar generation or other considerations.[000371] AC and DC receptacles can be strategically placed for user convenience, which may be on the front, side, or back of the system’s enclosure. This placement supports easy access for users when connecting devices or appliances, while also allowing for hidden cord management for fixed appliances (e.g. in a kitchen scenario: microwave, food disposal,dishwasher, wine fridge, etc.). In some designs, receptacles may be located behind a toolless cover to enhance aesthetic appeal and provide mechanical and environmental protection.[000372] Because of this user-centric design, the nanogrid system is not only functional but also intuitive and adaptable, meeting the diverse needs of users while maintaining ease of use and operational efficiency.Subsystem Modularity[000373] The nanogrid system is designed with a high degree of modularity, enabling users to upgrade, modify, and maintain the system's capabilities over time. This approach enhances the system’s longevity, sustainability, and adaptability to changing user needs and technological advancements.[000374] Upgradability and End-of-Life (EOL) Considerations: Modular design facilitates easy upgrades, allowing users to enhance system performance or add new features as they become available. For example, additional battery modules can be connected to increase backup duration or to provide portable power around the home, such as during power outages. This modularity also supports better end-of-life management; components like batteries and refrigerants can be more easily recovered, recycled, or replaced, reducing environmental impact, and promoting sustainability.[000375] Service, Repair, and Maintenance: The nanogrid system can be engineered for easy serviceability. Key components, such as the battery modules, power electronics (e.g. DCAC), compressors, and other mechanical parts, are designed to be easily accessed, removed, and replaced. This modular approach can be paired with software-enabled detection and early alerting systems that monitor the health of mechanical and power systems. The software can proactively identify potential issues, allowing for timely maintenance or repairs before more significant problems arise. This reduces downtime and extends the system's operational life.[000376] Expandable Power and Energy Capacity: In some embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 29b, a nanogrid system 2902 is designed with user-accessible electrical and mechanical connection points to add energy modules. The ability to add or remove battery modules 2954 and solar PV MPPT modules 2956 provides users with flexibility in managing their power needs during system setup and operation. For instance, users can increase their system's backup power capacity by adding more battery modules, tailoring the system to provide longer-duration backup during outages. Conversely, battery modules can be removed or swapped between devices within an ecosystem of battery-powered products, offering a dynamic way to manage energy resources throughout the home. Power capabilities can also beextended by adding in modules containing solar PV inputs and conversion (i.e. DCDC converters with MPPT functionality) to allow for generation directly connected to the nanogrid for off-grid and on-grid battery charging.[000377] In some embodiments, the nanogrid system is designed with user-accessible electrical and mechanical connection points to add low voltage communication, compute, and sensor modules 2960.[000378] Versatility and Ecosystem Integration: The modular design can extend beyond just the nanogrid system itself, encouraging integration with a broader ecosystem of devices. Battery modules, for example, can be shared with other compatible devices, allowing users to optimize their energy storage and usage across multiple applications. This versatility makes the system not just a standalone solution but a key component of a broader, interconnected energy management ecosystem.[000379] The modular design of the system can prioritize safety by incorporating advanced features to enable user protection and reliable operation. Each module can be engineered with touch-safe enclosures and connectors, reducing the risk of accidental contact with live electrical components. All of the power ports / terminals / connectors mentioned in this description can be said to be at least partially “included in” the nanogrid system’s enclosure to the extent they each protrude from a surface of the enclosure or are positioned within an opening in a surface of the enclosure.[000380] Presence detection mechanisms can confirm the secure attachment of modules before they become operational, preventing inadvertent disconnection or improper installation. Communication interlocks between modules can enable only compatible units to connect, facilitating the safe exchange of operational data and enhancing system stability and performance. Electrical contact monitoring can continuously check for proper connection integrity, alerting the system to any issues that could compromise safety. For high-voltage DC connections, a pre-charge circuit is employed to gradually build up voltage before full power is applied, minimizing the risk of arcing, and extending the life of the connectors. Additionally, each module can be equipped with overcurrent protection to prevent damage from electrical faults, ensuring that any issue within a module is isolated and does not affect the rest of the system. This comprehensive approach to safety, embedded within the modular architecture, can enable the system to remain robust, secure, and user-friendly across all configurations.[000381] This subsystem modularity can enable the system to remain adaptable, serviceable, and upgradable, providing long-term value to users while supporting sustainable practices.Refrigerator and Freezer Nanogrid Systems[000382] Refrigeration is a critical energy use in both residential and commercial settings, essential for ensuring food safety, prolonging the shelf life of perishables, and preserving certain medications. In the event of a power outage, the loss of refrigeration can lead to spoiled food and medicines within hours, resulting in significant financial loss and, in some cases, posing serious health risks. Refrigerators are also among the largest energy consumers in homes and businesses, highlighting the need for energy-efficient solutions applied to these devices.[000383] In some embodiments, the nanogrid system is engineered to deliver more reliable, efficient, and resilient refrigeration as illustrated in FIGs. 41al - 41a4 and 41b. This can be accomplished by integrating the nanogrid's power and thermal management systems directly into the design of a refrigerator / freezer appliance, within an integrated self-contained enclosure 4110, 4008a-d. This integration not only enhances the appliance's functionality during power outages but also optimizes energy usage and appliance performance when connected to the grid or building's electrical system.[000384] In these embodiments, the nanogrid-integrated refrigerator system can be designed with one or more refrigerator compartments 4112a-b, each providing an enclosed, refrigerated air space optimized for storing perishable goods. Inside these compartments, shelves and storage bins are arranged to offer convenient access and organization for users, accommodating a variety of items such as food, beverages, and medications.[000385] To provide energy efficiency, the refrigerator system can utilize effective insulation between the compartments and the exterior enclosure walls. This insulation, which may be composed of high-performance foam or vacuum panels, reduces the impact of the ambient environment on the refrigerated compartments, thus reducing the energy required to maintain the desired internal temperatures.[000386] In some embodiments, one or more of the refrigeration compartments are optimized for a temperature range ideal for refrigeration, typically between 34°F and 40°F (1°C to 4°C). This range is well-suited for preserving the freshness of perishable foods while preventing bacterial growth. Additionally, in other embodiments, one or more compartments are configured for freezer temperatures, generally around 0°F (-18°C), for safely storing frozen foods over extended periods. The system allows for temperature adjustments either through the nanogrid's intelligent software, which can optimize settings based on environmental conditions and energy availability, or via user preferences input through the system's interface.[000387] User access to the refrigeration compartments can be facilitated by doors 4114a- b that are hinged for ergonomic use, with handles 4168a-b designed for comfort and ease of operation. To accommodate various physical space constraints and user preferences, the refrigerator system can be produced in any of various styles, such as French doors, top-and- bottom configurations, or as a chest freezer. In some embodiments, the refrigerator is equipped with an auto-closing mechanism for the doors. Depending on the embodiment, the mechanism may be active, utilizing a motorized system to close the door securely after use, or passive, employing gravity, inclined planes, or utilizing air springs to gently close the door and maintain the internal temperature.[000388] The refrigeration loop system, integral to the nanogrid-integrated refrigerator, is a closed-loop thermal system designed to maintain precise temperature control within the refrigerator and freezer compartments. As illustrated in select embodiments in FIGs. 37a-e, the loop includes several key components: a compressor 4156, a condenser coil 4152, an evaporator coil 4120, and associated fans and sensors, all working in concert to regulate the internal environment of the appliance.[000389] The compressor is responsible for compressing the refrigerant, increasing its pressure and temperature as it flows through the loop. The heated refrigerant then passes through the condenser coil, typically located at the back or bottom of the appliance. A stirring fan is used in conjunction with the condenser coil to efficiently dissipate heat into the surrounding environment, facilitating the cooling of the refrigerant before it enters the next stage of the loop. Once cooled, the refrigerant flows to the evaporator coil, located within or adjacent to the refrigerated compartments. Here, it absorbs heat from the air inside the compartments, effectively lowering the temperature to the desired setpoint. This process of heat absorption cools the compartments and maintains the freshness and safety of stored items. The cooled air is then circulated throughout the compartments by fans, ensuring an even distribution of temperature.[000390] To achieve precise control over the refrigeration process, the nanogrid system can incorporate a network of sensors 4058a-d, such as temperature sensors. These sensors are strategically placed inside the refrigeration compartments, monitoring the internal temperature to enable it to be maintained within the set range. Additional sensors may be positioned to measure the ambient temperature outside the appliance, providing data that allows the nanogrid system (e.g. via TMS and AMS software) to adjust its operation based on external conditions. The system also can include sensors distributed throughout the thermal system, monitoring the performance of components like the compressor and evaporator coil.In some embodiments, the system also includes humidity sensors within the refrigeration compartments. These sensors help to maintain desired humidity levels, preventing issues like freezer burn or excessive moisture that could compromise the quality of stored goods. By integrating temperature and humidity sensing with the nanogrid's intelligent software, the system can dynamically adjust its operation to maintain ideal storage conditions while optimizing energy use.[000391] In some embodiments, the nanogrid system includes components for automatic defrost heating 4150 such as via one or a combination of electric resistance heating coil and / or circulating fluid loop thermally coupled to the battery and power electronics system, embedded in the wall of one or more refrigeration compartment(s).[000392] In refrigeration-oriented embodiments, the nanogrid power system is engineered to optimize the efficiency and performance of electrical loads, energy sources, and storage components, ensuring seamless integration with both the appliance and the broader home energy ecosystem. FIGs. 40a-d provide detailed exemplary power system designs — including a basic system approach 4000, approach with additional functionality and thermal integration 4002, and a dual compressor approach 4004 — each related to general nanogrid power system designs provided in FIG. 28.[000393] The system connects to premises wiring system via AC power cable and plug assembly 4118, 4010a-d attached securely to the device 4144b, designed to interface with a building electrical receptacle 4116. In some embodiments, the system integrates overcurrent protection at the AC supply input 4012a-d to protect the AC bus 4018a-d. To confer intentional islanding capabilities, the system integrates an MID relay on the AC bus 4014a-d. Power and energy metering is integrated across the AC and DC system to provide detailed measurement of power flow within the system, including at a point representative of energy exchange with the premises distribution system 4016a-d.[000394] FIG. 40 shows a representation of the relevant nanogrid power system elements discussed in detail above in relation to FIG. 28, including bidirectional hybrid multimode inverter (i.e. DCAC converter) 4020a-d, high voltage DC (HVDC) bus 4030a-d, integrated battery energy storage module(s) 4038a-d and bidirectional battery DCDC 4036a-d, integrated DC loads, low-voltage DC (LVDC) bus 4034a-d supplied by a DCDC buck converter 4032a-d to power integrated LVDC loads and electronics including LED lighting 4050a-d, circulating fan(s) 4048a-d, relay drive and sensors 4052a-d, and control circuitry 4062a-d and compute module(s) 4064a-d. To confer additional resiliency and flexibility to the power system and facilitate start-up, the LVDC system is designed to source power directly from the AC bus via aDCAC power supply 4066a-d. The system integrates power monitoring and control for some or all AC and DC loads to allow for effective energy management.[000395] In select refrigeration-oriented embodiments, several of the loads are designed to receive power from the HVDC bus for improved efficiency, including the compressors 4044a- d, 4082, condenser fan 4046a-c, ice maker 4078b-c, and / or hot water tap heating element 4076b-c. In some embodiments, certain internal loads may be connected to the AC bus such as the defrost heating element 4074a-c. In some embodiments, other integrated loads are designed to receive power from the LVDC bus such as circulating fans 4084a-c, user interface display(s) 4060a-d, and / or auxiliary circulating pump(s) 4080a-d.[000396] In some embodiments, the nanogrid system is designed with integrated solar DCDC MPPT converter(s) 4068b-d to allow connecting PV panel(s) 4072b-d, 4138a to the nanogrid appliance system 4104 via power cable(s) 4138b to user-accessible connectors 4070b-d, 4132 hosted on the system.[000397] In addition to the integrated power conversion and battery energy storage system 4154, certain embodiments of the nanogrid system are designed to support userinstallation of various power modules 4122, such as battery packs 4084a-d and / or solar photovoltaic (PV) maximum power point tracking (MPPT) modules. These modules are engineered to seamlessly integrate with the appliance system through carefully designed mechanical interaction points 4124, 4040a-d and integrated electrical connectors 4042a-d. These connection points provide a secure and reliable interface between the mechanical components and electrical contacts, facilitating straightforward installation. The design prioritizes both functionality and aesthetics, providing options for modules to be installed in an elegant and unobtrusive manner. In some embodiments, an aesthetic cover 4134 may be employed to further enhance the appearance of the installed modules, ensuring that they blend seamlessly with the overall design of the appliance 4102, 4106 while maintaining ease of access and functionality.[000398] The nanogrid system can feature strategically placed receptacles on user- accessible panel(s) 4126 that enhance flexibility and resilience during power outages as well as for daily energy management usage (i.e. enabled by integrated actuators for granular control 4028a-d and metering circuitry 4026a-d). These receptacles include both AC 4022a-d and DC 4056a-d options, such as NEMA outlets for AC loads 4024a-d, 4140a-b and USB Type-C ports 4130 for DC loads 4054a-d, 4142a-b, accommodating a wide range of devices and appliances. The design of the receptacles prioritizes their location to maximize usability and accessibility. In some embodiments, receptacles are positioned on the front and / or side 4144a of the systemto facilitate easy and flexible use for frequently connected devices. Alternatively, in other embodiments, receptacles are located on the rear of the unit, providing a semi-permanent connection option for appliances that benefit from integrated energy management and monitoring. This strategic placement enables users to efficiently manage their energy needs and maintain power resilience across various scenarios.[000399] The nanogrid system’s integrated design allows for effective thermal management via indirect and / or direct coupling strategies of various components contained in the system, including between the battery and power electronics module and refrigeration compartments and / or refrigeration loop as detailed above and in FIG. 36al - FIG. 36b3 and FIG. 37. This unique management functionality is managed by the onboard TMS software. FIG. 38a provides example logic 3800 for providing selective cooling to battery energy storage and power electronics modules based on measured thermal needs. Once this software system initializes 3804, the software system first determines if one or more refrigeration compartments are within their defined setpoint ranges 3806 using integrated temperature sensors. If that condition is true, the system then determines if the integrated battery and electronics module(s) require cooling (i.e. are above a defined temperature setpoint, using integrated temperature sensors) 3808. If that condition is false, the system adjusts control of actuators to cause cooling fluid not to be routed to the cooling loop coupled to the battery and power electronics 3810. However, if this power system does require cooling, the TMS software logic adjusts the thermal system to cause refrigerant to flow through the power system auxiliary cooling loop 3824, and subsequently causes the cooling system to operate (i.e. running one or more compressor(s), pump(s), and / or fan(s) 3818. In some embodiments, one or more of the thermal system’s compressor(s), pump(s), and / or fan(s) may be capable of variable speed control, and the TMS determines this based on configuration data 3820, to continually assess thermal performance and modify speed(s) 3822 to cause efficient thermal management to be balanced with efficient use of energy. If the TMS logic determines that refrigeration compartment(s) are not within the temperature setpoint range, the system logic will then consider if the measured temperature of these compartments is below a defined minimum setpoint 3812, and if this condition is false (i.e. one or more of the compartments are warmer than setpoint), the TMS will cause the refrigeration system to operate to cool the system down 3818-3822. Conversely, if the condition is true (i.e. one or more of the compartments are cooler than setpoint range), the TMS will cause the refrigeration loop to cease cooling operation one or more of the compartments are warmer than setpoint 3814 by powering down the refrigeration loop compressor(s), pump(s), and / or fan(s). To avoid short-cycling the thermal system, which may cause undue mechanical wear when starting compressors against high pressure, the TMS is equipped with logic to wait a predetermined time before restarting the cooling system’s compressor(s) after shutdown 3816.[000400] Similarly, FIG. 38b depicts an example of the logic 3802, of the TMS for select embodiments, for providing selective defrost heating to refrigeration compartments leveraging system waste heat. Once the TMS software system initializes 3826, it first determines if an automatic defrost cycle should start 3828 based on measured temperatures and predefined time-based heuristics. When this condition is true, the TMS then evaluates whether the battery and / or connected sources (e.g. solar PV) are operating and generating sufficient waste heat from power conversion to selective route that waste heat for defrosting a freezer compartment 3830. If there is not sufficient heat generation from the operation of the battery and / or power conversion system at that time, the TMS may then consider if there is available capacity for charging the battery 3832 and increase battery charging power 3844 to cause more heat to be generated from the battery operation. Once the TMS determines there is heat available from the power system to route for the purposes of defrosting, it causes the defrost circulation pump to run 3846, until the TMS determines the defrost cycle has completed 3840, and when this condition is true, the TMS causes the defrost circulation pump and when applicable the defrost resistive heater element to stop 3842. Else, the TMS continually assesses the available excess heat from the battery and power conversion system available 3830 to make necessary adjustments for efficient operation and effective defrosting. When the TMS determines there is not capacity available to charge the onboard battery (i.e. it is at End of Charge), the TMS may wait 3832-3834 until a maximum wait time has elapsed 3836, at which point the TMS may activate an auxiliary resistive defrost heater element 3838 to enable defrosting to be reliably completed regardless of the state of the battery and power conversion system.[000401] The refrigerator design within the nanogrid system can include several notable features that enhance its functionality, convenience, and user experience. Among these are interior lights, door state sensing, an ice maker, dispensable water taps, and an advanced user interface, all integrated into the appliance to offer a modern, efficient, and user-friendly solution.[000402] Interior Lights: The interior of the refrigerator can be equipped with strategically placed lighting, ensuring that all compartments are well-illuminated when the doors are opened. These lights, which may be LED-based for energy efficiency and longevity, provide clear visibility of stored items, even in low-light conditions. The lighting system is designed tobe soft yet bright, enhancing the user experience without generating excess heat that could affect the internal temperature. In some embodiments, the lighting may automatically adjust its intensity based on the time of day or user preferences, adding an extra layer of customization.[000403] Door State Sensing: To further improve energy efficiency and user convenience, the refrigerator can include door state sensors that detect whether the doors are open or closed. These sensors play a crucial role in preventing energy loss by alerting users if a door is left open for an extended period, potentially sending notifications via the appliance's user interface or connected smartphone application. The sensors also interact with the TMS, allowing it to adjust the cooling cycle to compensate for any temperature fluctuations caused by an open door, thus maintaining desired storage conditions.[000404] Ice Maker: The integrated ice maker provides a continuous supply of ice, stored in a dedicated compartment within the freezer section. This feature is designed for convenience, allowing users to access ice without the need for external ice trays. The ice maker operates efficiently within the refrigeration loop, using the system’s thermal management capabilities to produce and store ice. In some embodiments, the ice maker may offer different ice sizes or types, such as crushed or cubed, to suit various user preferences.[000405] User Interface: The refrigerator can include an advanced user interface 4136, typically presented through a high-resolution screen, such as an OLED display, located on the door or another accessible area of the appliance. This screen provides users with real-time information on the status of the refrigerator, including temperature settings, door state alerts, and the status of features like the ice maker and water taps. The user interface allows for intuitive control over the appliance’s functions, enabling users to easily adjust settings, monitor energy usage, and set preferences for various features. In some embodiments, the interface is also accessible via a companion smartphone or web application, allowing users to manage their refrigerator remotely. This integration of a user-friendly interface with the nanogrid's intelligent software make the appliance both easy to use and highly adaptable to individual needs.[000406] Dispensable Water Taps and Water Filter with Resiliency Features: The refrigerator may include one or more dispensable water taps 4160-4164 connected via an integrated water-tight fitting 4148 to the domestic water supply, offering both convenience and added resiliency in power outages or emergency situations. In the most basic configuration, a single tap allows users to dispense chilled water directly from the refrigerator. In some embodiments, the system features two separate taps for dispensing both hot and coldwater, providing additional functionality. Some embodiments also offer the option to dispense carbonated water, utilizing a user-replaceable carbonation cartridge that can be easily installed and replaced as needed. The water supplied through these taps is filtered using an integrated water filter, ensuring that the water is clean and safe for consumption. The filter is designed for easy replacement, maintaining the quality and taste of the water over time.[000407] In certain embodiments, the system is designed to offer additional levels of resilience during power outages and emergency situations. These embodiments include water taps equipped to aid in disinfecting water to make it safe and potable. This can be achieved through various filtering methods, such as UV filtration, filter media, or a combination of techniques effective at removing common waterborne risks to potability, such as bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants. In other embodiments, resiliency is further enhanced by providing the capability to boil water and deliver it via the hot water tap, making it suitable for safe drinking or cooking during emergencies. This functionality is enabled by integrated heating elements, which can connect to either AC or DC voltage buses within the system. By leveraging the nanogrid’s power management capabilities, the refrigerator can keep essential water heating and filtration functions operational even during extended outages, providing critical support to users in times of need. In some embodiments, illustrated in FIG. 37d, the domestic water feed 3766d to the hot water tap is designed to be preheated by the refrigeration loop via a heat exchanger 3758d supplemented by an electric heating element 3762d prior to exiting the dispenser tap 3760d.[000408] The design of the nanogrid system can incorporate removable access panels on both the front 4136 and rear 4146, 4158 of the appliance, facilitating easy serviceability and maintenance. These panels provide straightforward access to critical components such as the power system, battery modules, and TMS, enabling technicians to perform routine inspections, repairs, and upgrades with minimal disruption. The front access panel allows for convenient interaction with user-facing elements and power modules, while the rear panel enables unobstructed access to internal wiring and thermal system modules. This design keeps the appliance functional and efficient over its lifespan, while also simplifying the process of addressing any potential issues that may arise.Appliance Load Use Cases[000409] In other embodiments, the integrated nanogrid system is similarly designed to replace traditional home appliances for domestic water heating, space conditioning (i.e. heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, HVAC), or clothes washing and drying whileproviding new and extensive backup power, energy and power management, and energy system interoperability. The system is designed to provide significant advantages and functionality when multiple nanogrid systems form an ecosystem of products at a home or business as illustrated in FIG. 30 and related discussion above, such as coordinated and comprehensive energy optimization, power management, distributed energy and environmental monitoring, and virtual power plant control, and related software-enabled intelligence discussed in relation to FIGs. 31-35 and 39.[000410] In embodiments designed to provide domestic water heating, as illustrated in FIG. 42, the integrated nanogrid system enables continuous access to hot water even during power emergencies. This is essential for maintaining health, sanitation, hygiene and comfort, as hot water is critical for cooking, cleaning, and personal care. The system utilizes efficient heating elements that can operate on either AC or DC power, drawing directly from the nanogrid's battery storage or solar PV modules when grid power is unavailable. This capability not only supports essential daily activities but also enhances the resilience of households and businesses by ensuringthat hot water remains available during outages, contributing to overall safety and well-being in critical situations. Additionally, the system’s smart controls allow for optimized energy use, prioritizing hot water availability based on user preferences and demand, ensuring that energy resources are managed efficiently across the nanogrid ecosystem.[000411] In some embodiments, the nanogrid system is designed to provide water heating primarily using one or more electric resistance elements with a storage tank, ensuring a reliable supply of hot water even during power outages. This setup allows for consistent and immediate water heating, with the storage tank maintaining a reserve of hot water to meet household demands. In other embodiments, the system may be configured without a storage tank, utilizing on-demand water heating elements that activate only when hot water is needed, thereby improving energy efficiency by minimizing standby heat losses.[000412] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the nanogrid system 4200-4202 integrates a heat pump heating system with a storage tank, leveraging the energy efficiency of heat pump technology to transfer heat from the surrounding air to the water. This approach significantly reduces the electricity required for water heating, making it an ideal solution for energyconscious use cases. The storage tank 4204 in this configuration enables a steady supply of hot water while benefiting from the lower energy consumption of the heat pump. The storage tank in the nanogrid system's water heating configuration is designed with high-quality insulation 4206 to minimize heat loss, ensuring that the water remains hot for extended periods whilereducing overall energy consumption. This insulation is used for maintaining the efficiency of the system, particularly in scenarios where power is limited or during periods of low energy generation, such as during grid outages or low solar output.[000413] The heat pump system integrated within this water heater configuration is integral to the device, e.g., incorporated into a compartment of the device 4218 that may be serviceable by technicians but is otherwise inaccessible to users, and includes several key components that work together to efficiently transfer heat to the water. The system includes a compressor 4220 that circulates refrigerant through the closed refrigerant loop, a condenser coil 4208 located within the storage tank that releases heat into the water, and an evaporator coil 4222 that absorbs heat from the surrounding air. One or more fans or blowers 4226 are used to move air across the evaporator coil and power system components, enhancing heat absorption from the ambient environment. This process allows the heat pump to heat water using less electricity compared to traditional resistance heating elements, making it an energyefficient option for households.[000414] In some cases, the system may include one or more immersion resistance heaters4212a-b within the storage tank. These heaters can supplement the heat pump, providing additional heating power when water demand is high or when rapid recovery is needed to maintain the desired water temperature. This dual-heating approach enables the system to meet peak hot water demands while still benefiting from the efficiency of the heat pump under normal operating conditions.[000415] The tank also features various sensors and components to enable safe and effective operation. Temperature sensors are strategically placed, typically at the upper 4210b and lower sections 4210a of the tank, to monitor water temperature accurately. These sensors allow the system's control software to manage the heating process efficiently, ensuring that water is heated to the desired temperature while avoiding overheating.[000416] The cold-water inlet 4216a is located at the lower section of the tank and is connected to the domestic water supply, allowing for the continuous replenishment of water as it is used. The hot water outlet 4216a is located at the upper section of the tank. The tank also includes a drain valve 4214a at the bottom, which facilitates maintenance tasks such as flushing the tank to remove sediment buildup.[000417] Additionally, the system is equipped with a temperature and pressure relief valve 4216a at the upper section of the tank. This safety feature prevents over-pressurization and potential failure of the tank, as it automatically releases water and pressure if thetemperature or pressure within the tank exceeds safe limits. This valve enables the system to operate safely under all conditions, protecting both the appliance and the household.[000418] The nanogrid’s onboard power system 2800-2806, 2900-2902, 4000 containing the battery energy storage module(s), power electronics, MID and supporting electrical components are designed as an integrated section 4224 of the appliance system. This module, connected to the premises electrical distribution system via an AC wiring supply cordset or conductor set 4228, also hosts a user-accessible control and interface panel 4230 with user interfaces 4236, AC receptacles 4232 for connecting AC loads 4246a via a plug-in power cord 4246b, and DC receptacles 4234 for connecting DC loads 4244a via a plug-in power cord 4244b. In some embodiments, the system is designed for modular connection of additional battery storage modules 4238 such as via a blind-mate electrical connector system 4240, as well as connection of solar PV panel(s) 4242a via wired connection 4242b to the system. These design elements enable seamless integration of the nanogrid's power system with existing electrical infrastructure while providing flexible connectivity for both AC and DC loads. The modularity allows for easy expansion of battery storage and the incorporation of solar PV panels, enhancing the system's resilience and energy efficiency.[000419] In some embodiments, integrated thermal strategies between the water and heat pump system provide efficient temperature management of the battery and power electronics system, leveraging one or more strategies including indirect thermal coupling to the evaporator coil 3602, 3700 for cooling, direct coupling via an auxiliary refrigeration loop 3702, 3708, and / or heat exchange with the open-loop water flow system 3712.[000420] By offering these various configurations, the nanogrid system provides flexible and resilient water heating solutions tailored to different household needs and energy efficiency goals.[000421] In embodiments designed for space conditioning (HVAC), the integrated nanogrid system offers substantial benefits over traditional heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, especially during power emergencies. As shown in FIGs. 43 and 44 the system seamlessly integrates with the home or business's existing infrastructure, allowing for precise temperature and humidity control even during outages. The HVAC system, being one of the largest energy consumers in a building, presents significant opportunities for energy optimization and management. By intelligently managing this load, the nanogrid system not only enhances resilience and reduces energy consumption within the premises but also contributes to grid-scale value by participating in demand response programs and other grid services. This integration enables the system to maintain critical HVAC functions, such asheating and cooling, even when grid power is unavailable, while also playing a pivotal role in a coordinated energy strategy within a broader ecosystem of interconnected nanogrid systems. [000422] In some embodiments, the nanogrid system is designed as a window unit air conditioner or heat pump 4300-4302, integrated into a single mechanical package 4304 that is designed to be easily mounted in-wall or in a window using mechanical connection flanges 4336, and designed to provide space conditioning when grid connected or in power outages by intaking ambient air 4320 and blowing conditioned air 4318 to an indoor space, with an internal partition barrier 4312 to separate the internal and external facing sections of the device. This design allows for easy installation and operation, making it an ideal retrofit solution for homes or businesses seeking to enhance energy resilience and efficiency without requiring significant alterations to existing infrastructure. In other embodiments, such as shown in FIG. 44, the system is designed as a mini-split HVAC system 4400, including a separate indoor unit 4402 and outdoor unit 4406 connected with field-installed send 4412 and return 4414 refrigerant lines, and electrical power cable assembly containing AC and DC power and communication wiring 4416, thereby designed to provide space conditioning when grid connected or in power outages by intaking ambient air and blowing conditioned air 4422 to an indoor space 4404. This configuration offers greater flexibility in installation, allowing for more precise placement of the cooling and heating elements to optimize performance and energy usage. Both designs enable the nanogrid system to manage space conditioning loads effectively, providing reliable temperature control and energy savings even during grid outages.[000423] In some embodiments, the thermal system includes a closed-loop refrigeration cycle that comprises components such as a compressor 4306, evaporator coil 4310, condenser coil 4308, evaporator fan 4316, condenser fan 4314, and expansion valve. This system is primarily designed to provide cooling to an interior space, efficiently maintaining desired temperatures within the conditioned environment. In these embodiments, integrated thermal strategies with the heat pump system provide efficient temperature management of the battery and power electronics system, leveraging one or more strategies including indirect thermal coupling to the evaporator coil 3602, 3700 for cooling the power system elements, and / or direct coupling via an auxiliary refrigeration loop 3702, 3708.[000424] In other embodiments, the nanogrid system is configured as a heat pump, capable of delivering both heating and cooling to the conditioned area. This can be achieved by incorporating additional components into the refrigeration loop system as illustrated in FIG. 37f. In a heat pump system, this basic refrigeration cycle is enhanced to allow for reversible operation, enabling both heating and cooling modes. To achieve this, additional componentssuch as a reversing valve are included. The reversing valve alters the direction of the refrigerant flow, allowing the condenser coil and evaporator coil to switch roles depending on whether heating or cooling is required. In heating mode, the evaporator coil absorbs heat from the outside environment (even in cold weather), and the condenser coil releases this heat into the indoor space. This ability to reverse the cycle makes heat pumps versatile, providing efficient space heating in addition to cooling. This versatile design enables the nanogrid system to adapt to varying climate control needs, ensuring comfort and energy efficiency in different environmental conditions. In such embodiments, integrated thermal strategies with the heat pump system and the battery and power electronics system are designed to leverage one or more thermal strategies including indirect thermal coupling to the evaporator coil 3602, 3700 for cooling the power system elements, and / or direct coupling via an auxiliary refrigeration loop 3710.[000425] In some embodiments, the system includes air filtration features with a user- replaceable filter. This filtration system is designed to enhance indoor air quality by capturing dust, pollen, and other airborne particles. The user-replaceable filter enables easy maintenance and allows users to regularly replace the filter as needed, promoting high system performance and ensuring a healthier living environment.[000426] In these embodiments, the nanogrid system is electrically connected with the AC premises distribution system via a power cord and plug assembly 4324 or set of electrical conductors 3324 run during installation to an interconnection module 3310 on the system.[000427] The nanogrid’s onboard power system 2800-2806, 2900-2902, 4000, 4006 containing the battery energy storage module(s), power electronics, MID and supporting electrical components are designed as an integrated section 4322, 3308 of the appliance system. The system hosts user interfaces including a display(s) 4332-4334, 3320, AC receptacles 4326, 3318 for connecting AC loads 4342a via a plug-in power cord 4342b, and DC receptacles 4330 for connecting DC loads 4340a via a plug-in power cord 4340b. In some embodiments, the system is designed for modular connection of solar PV panel(s) 4338a, 3306a via wired connection 4338b, 3306b to dedicated connector receptacles 4328 on the system. These design elements provide seamless integration of the nanogrid's power system with existing electrical infrastructure while providing flexible connectivity for both AC and DC loads. The modularity allows for easy expansion of battery storage and the incorporation of solar PV panels, enhancing the system's resilience and energy efficiency.[000428] In some embodiments, the system is designed with a modular, user-replaceable auxiliary battery to supplement the integrated battery. This auxiliary battery can be easilyinstalled or swapped by the user, providing additional energy storage capacity when needed, such as during extended power outages or periods of high energy demand. This modular approach not only enhances the system's resilience and flexibility but also allows users to tailor the energy storage capacity to their specific needs, ensuring uninterrupted operation of critical systems and appliances.[000429] In embodiments designed for clothes washing and / or drying, the integrated nanogrid system provides enhanced resiliency and energy management, offering significant benefits during power outages and daily operations. As illustrated in FIG. 45, the system integrates seamlessly with traditional laundry appliances, allowing users to continue washing and drying clothes even when grid power is unavailable. This is particularly important for maintaining hygiene and convenience during extended outages. Additionally, because laundry appliances are substantial energy consumers, the nanogrid system optimizes their operation for energy efficiency. By managing the power consumption of washing machines and dryers, the system not only reduces energy usage within the premises but also contributes to broader energy management goals, such as load shifting and participation in grid services. This enables critical laundry functions to be maintained with minimal energy expenditure, providing a resilient and convenient solution that enhances both household efficiency and grid stability.[000430] The mechanical design of the integrated nanogrid system for clothes washing and / or drying 4500-4504 is structured as an integrated enclosure 4506 and system of power modules 4516, prioritizing both functionality and ease of service. In some embodiments, the system is designed to accommodate various types of laundry appliances, such as top-loading or front-loading washing machines, and vented or ventless dryers. In each of these embodiments, the design includes a drum 4508 for agitating during washing and / or drying with latching access door (s), a heating element for air and / or water to enable efficient cleaning and drying cycles, as well as additional components typical of washer-dryer systems such as water inlets, pumps for draining, lint filters, and user-friendly control panels for selecting various wash and dry settings. These elements are integrated with the nanogrid system to optimize energy use and provide reliable performance even during power outages. The design also considers aesthetics, featuring intuitive user interfaces 4526-4528 and sleek covers for serviceable areas and module connections ensuring that the system blends seamlessly with modern home interiors while providing easy access for maintenance and upgrades.[000431] The nanogrid’s onboard power system 2800-2806, 2900-2902, 4000 containing the battery energy storage module(s), power electronics, MID and supporting electrical components are designed as an integrated section 4510 of the appliance system. This powersystem is designed to be connected to the premises electrical distribution system 4514 via an AC wiring supply cordset or conductor set 4512. The system hosts AC receptacles 4520 for connecting AC loads 4536a via a plug-in power cord 4536b, and DC receptacles 4522 for connecting DC loads 4534a via a plug-in power cord 4534b. In some embodiments, the system is designed for modular connection 4524 of solar PV panel(s) 4532a via wired connection 4532b to the system. These design elements provide seamless integration of the nanogrid's power system with existing electrical infrastructure while providing flexible connectivity for both AC and DC loads. In addition to the integrated power conversion and battery energy storage system, some embodiments of the system support user-installation of various power modules 4516, such as battery packs 4084a-d and / or solar photovoltaic (PV) maximum power point tracking (MPPT) modules. These modules are engineered to seamlessly integrate with the appliance system through carefully designed mechanical interaction points 4518, 4040a-d and integrated electrical connectors 4042a-d ensuring secure and reliable interface between the mechanical components and electrical contacts and facilitating straightforward installation. The design prioritizes both functionality and aesthetics, providing options for modules to be installed in an elegant and unobtrusive manner. In some embodiments, an aesthetic cover 4530 may be employed to further enhance the appearance of the installed modules, ensuring that they blend seamlessly with the overall design of the appliance while maintaining ease of access and functionality.[000432] In some embodiments, the nanogrid’s thermal system is designed to provide heating to the internal drum and / or air and water intakes to enable effective washing and drying cycles. This heating can be achieved using a one or a combination of electric resistance heaters and a heat pump condensing coil controlled by the AMS and TMS, allowing for efficient and adaptable temperature control. The integration of these heating elements helps optimize performance and energy usage, ensuring that both washing and drying functions are maintained at desired levels, even during power interruptions. In embodiments employing a heat pump system integrated thermal strategies with the nanogrid’s power system (i.e. battery and / or power electronics modules) is designed to leverage one or more efficient heat transfer strategies including indirect thermal coupling to the evaporator coil 3602, 3700 for cooling, direct coupling via an auxiliary refrigeration loop 3702, 3708, and / or heat exchange with the open-loop water flow system 3712.[000433] Hence, the detailed description above describes, among other things, a self- contained nanogrid system comprising: o A connection to a power source within the premises, the primary power sourceo An MID configured to selectively disconnect from the primary power source o An AC electrical bus o One or more DC electrical busses o A bidirectional, multimode inverter (DCAC) o Battery energy storage modules with an associated battery management system o At least one integrated electrical load o at least one power management component configured to provide backup power to one or more loads within a portion of the nanogrid system o A processor, memory equipment, and programmable software system [000434] The nanogrid system may include one or more solar photovoltaic ( V) inputs which are: o performance optimized using maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms and one or more controllable DCDC converters, and / or o Designed with user accessible electrical connectors for connecting a single or a string of PV panels[000435] The nanogrid system may include a modular power system: o Which supports attachment of one or more user-replaceable battery modules to increase battery storage capacity o For attachment of one or more PV MPPT converter module o Designed for simple service and repair of internal power components and load components[000436] The nanogrid system may include one or a plurality of internal DC loads: o Such as motor and compressor loads o Which are designed to be powered from the shared DC bus with battery energy storage and / or solar PV o Which may be enabled with variable speed control for improved power control, improved energy efficiency, and improved user experience such as reduced noise during operation[000437] The nanogrid system may include an integrated thermal strategy: o Between one or more integrated loads, o Between the power system (such as the battery and power conversion system), o And ambient air, and / or a domestic water supplyo Which may be designed as one or combination of active (for example a blower fan and / or a refrigeration loop) or passive (for example conductive or convective) thermal management strategies[000438] The nanogrid system may host user-accessible AC and DC power receptacles: o Which are designed to provide power in an outage (i.e. on loss of the primary power source), or when grid-connected o For powering one or more adjacent user-connected AC loads o For powering one or more adjacent user-connected DC loads o For connecting one or more user-connected solar PV panel or strings of panels, or battery modules o Which are designed for easy user access during operation o Which may include energy meter...

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A backup power system comprising: a power supply input configured to receive AC power distributed via an electrical system of a building; a battery; a plurality of power outputs; a processing unit including at least one programmable processor and memory, configured to cause power to be provided to the plurality of power outputs from the battery or the power supply input selectively based on a status of the received AC power; and an enclosure including the battery and the processing unit and at least partially including the power supply input and the plurality of power outputs.

2. The backup power system of claim 1, wherein the processing unit is configured to perform software-controlled selective electrical disconnection from, and reconnection to, a source of the AC power distributed via the electrical system of a building.

3. The backup power system of claim 1, further comprising a display device, wherein the processing unit is configured to cause the display device to display system status and to receive user inputs from a user.

4. The backup power system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of power outputs comprise at least one AC power output, the backup power system further comprising a power converter to convert DC power from the battery into AC power for the at least one AC power output.

5. The backup power system of claim 4, further comprising a shared DC bus located within the enclosure, to connect the battery and a plurality of other DC power sources to the power converter, to enable the power converter to convert DC power from any of the other DC power sources into AC power for the at least one AC power output.

6. The backup power system of claim 4, wherein the processing unit is configured to cause the AC power from the at least one AC power output to be disconnected from the at least oneAC power output when the status of the received AC power indicates that the received AC power is less than a threshold value.

7. The backup power system of claim 4, wherein the at least one AC power output is configured to receive AC power from the electrical system of the building, the power converter via the onboard battery, or a combination thereof, in response to a software-controlled selection.

8. The backup power system of claim 4, wherein the power converter comprises a bidirectional power converter operable to convert AC power to DC power and to convert DC power to AC power.

9. The backup power system of claim 4, wherein the processing unit is further configured to cause the bidirectional power converter to operate in a hybrid grid-following mode when a first condition occurs and to operate in a grid following mode when a second condition occurs, according to one or more software-defined settings.

10. The backup power system of claim 1, wherein the enclosure comprises a main unit, the backup power system further comprising a remote unit external to the enclosure, wherein the remote unit includes a second plurality of power outputs and a user interface.

11. The backup power system of claim 10, wherein remote unit includes an attachment component for fixedly attaching the remote unit to a home appliance.

12. The backup power system of claim 11, wherein the attachment component comprises one or more magnets.

13. The backup power system of claim 1, further comprising a microgrid outlet configured to connect to a second backup power system including at least one of an additional battery energy storage system or a solar photovoltaic system, wherein the processing unit is configured to form a microgrid with the second backup power system when the backup power system is connected to the second backup power system.

14. The backup power system of claim 1, further comprising one or more sensors configured to measure the received AC power, and wherein the status of the received AC power is determined based on an output of the one or more sensors.

15. The backup power system of claim 1, further comprising at least one additional sensor, the at least one additional sensor comprising at least one of: temperature sensor, a light sensor, an appliance state sensor, or an air quality sensor.

16. The backup power system of claim 1, further comprising a DC power input within the enclosure, wherein the DC power input is configured to receive DC power from a solar panel or an expansion battery.

17. The backup power system of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of input / output ports and at least one external sensor attached to the input / output ports, wherein the processing unit is further configured to selectively cause the AC power to be provided based on an output from the at least one external sensor.

18. The backup power system of claim 1, further comprising a wireless communication interface located within the enclosure.

19. The backup power system of claim 18, wherein the processing unit is configured to cause information about the selectively providing the power to be transmitted to a user device via the wireless communication interface.

20. The backup power system of claim 18, wherein the processing unit is configured to receive information about a connected appliance via the wireless communication interface and to modify the selectively providing the power based on the received information.

21. The backup power system of claim 18, wherein the processing unit is configured to cause commands to be transmitted to a connected appliance via the wireless communication interface.

22. The backup power system of claim 18, wherein the power is selectively provided based on Energy Management System requirements.

23. The backup power system of claim 1, wherein the processing unit is configured to disconnect the AC power from the at least one AC power output when the status of the received AC power indicates that the AC power is greater than a threshold value.

24. The backup power system of claim 1, further comprising a disconnect circuitry coupled to the power supply input, wherein the processing unit is further configured to cause the disconnect circuitry to disconnect one or more of the plurality of power outputs from the received AC power based on the status of the AC power.

25. The backup power system of claim 24, wherein the disconnect circuitry comprises one or more relays.

26. The backup power system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of power outputs are touchsafe power outputs.

27. The backup power system of claim 1, further comprising a mechanical mounting system to attach the backup power control system to an appliance.

28. The backup power control system of claim 27, wherein attachment of the backup power control system to the appliance is based on preexisting locations of attachment components on the appliance, and wherein the enclosure and the mounting system are arranged to integrate with the preexisting locations of attachment components.

29. The backup power control system of claim 27, wherein attachment of the backup power control system to the appliance is based on the mounting system attaching to one or more preexisting attachment components of the appliance, wherein the mounting system comprises an additional attachment component to attach to the enclosure, and wherein the enclosure attaches to the mounting system.

30. The backup power control system of claim 27, wherein the enclosure comprises an integrated location for attachment of the enclosure to the appliance via the mounting system.

31. The backup power system of claim 30, wherein the integrated location comprises a slot or a recess.

32. The backup power control system of claim 27, further comprising one or more signal connectors through which to exchange signals with the appliance.

33. The backup power control system of claim 32, further comprising one or more power connectors through which to provide power to the appliance.

34. The backup power system of claim 1, wherein the processing unit is configured to: receive over-the-air software updates, and updated settings via a smartphone application and web application; and transmit information about the backup power system and connected devices to additional backup power systems via a wireless communication interface.

35. A backup power system comprising: a power supply input configured to receive AC power distributed via an electrical system of a building; a battery; a plurality of touch-safe power outputs, including at least one AC power output; a bidirectional power converter to convert a DC output from the battery into AC power for the at least one AC power output when operating in a first mode, and to convert the received AC power to DC power to charge the battery when operating in a second mode; a first power relay coupled between the power supply input and the bidirectional power converter, to switchably connect or disconnect the at least one AC power output to a source of the AC power distributed via an electrical system of a building; a second power relay coupled between the first power relay and the bidirectional power converter and between the bidirectional power converter and the at least one AC power output, to switchably connect or disconnect the bidirectional power converter to the at least one AC power output; a shared DC bus to connect the battery and a plurality of other DC power sources to the bidirectional power converter, to enable the bidirectional power converter to convert a DC output from any of the other DC power sources into AC power for the at least one AC power output when operating in the first mode;a processing unit configured to control the first power relay and the second power relay to control a direction of power conversion to be performed by the bidirectional power converter based on a sensed condition, selectively cause power to be provided to the plurality of power outputs from the battery or the power supply input based on a status of the received AC power, and selectively cause electrical disconnection from, and reconnection to, a source of the AC power distributed via the electrical system of a building; a display device to display status information of the backup power system in response to signals from the processing unit and to receive user inputs from a user; and an enclosure including the battery, the bidirectional power converter, the processing unit and the shared DC bus, and at least partially including the power supply input.

36. A method of operating a self-contained backup power system, the method comprising: receiving AC grid power, distributed via an electrical system of a building, at an AC power input of the self-contained backup power system; outputting AC power to a locally connected appliance via at least one AC power output of a plurality of power outputs of the self-contained backup power system; locally sensing, within the self-contained backup power system, a state of the AC grid power; determining, within the self-contained backup power system, whether the state of the AC grid power satisfies a specified condition; based on an outcome of the determining, maintaining an electrical connection between the at least one AC power output and the AC power input when the state of the AC grid power satisfies the specified condition; and when the state of the AC grid power does not satisfy the specified condition, electrically disconnecting the at least one AC power output from the AC power input, converting DC power from an internal battery of the self-contained backup power system into battery-derived AC power, and providing the battery-derived AC power to the at least one AC power output.

37. The method of claim 36, further comprising:converting the AC grid power received at the AC power input to DC power; and routing the DC power to the internal battery of the self-contained backup power system to cause charging of the internal battery.

38. The method of claim 36, further comprising: gathering data from the appliance, at the self-contained backup power system; and tailoring distribution of AC power to the appliance, at the self-contained backup power system, based on the data gathered from the appliance.

39. The method of claim 36, further comprising: displaying status information of the backup power system at a user interface; and receiving, via the user interface, user inputs from a user, for use in controlling operation of the system.

40. The backup power system of claim 18, wherein the processing unit is configured to receive information about on-premises distributed energy resources, including solar photovoltaic systems and battery storage system, via the wireless communication interface and to modify the selectively providing the power based on the received information.

41. The backup power system of claim 18, wherein the processing unit is configured to receive information about on-premises distributed energy resources, including solar photovoltaic systems and battery storage systems, via the wireless communication interface and to modify a charge and discharge power of the battery.

42. The backup power system of claim 18, wherein the processing unit is configured to cause commands to be transmitted to connected on-premises distributed energy resources, including solar photovoltaic systems and battery storage systems, via the wireless communication interface.

42. The method of operating the self-contained backup power system of claim 36, wherein the method includes developing and repeatedly updating a statistical software model of connected appliances based on collected historical usage data, real-time load demand, and appliance operating parameters, and repeatedly using the statistical software model.

43. The method of claim 36, further comprising: wirelessly transmitting data about the backup system via application programming interfaces (APIs) intended for third party access; and tailoring distribution of AC power and DC power at the self-contained backup power system, based on data exchanged over API communication44. A first nanogrid node configured to operate as one of a plurality of peer nanogrid nodes in a nanogrid system within a premises, the first nanogrid node comprising: a power supply input to receive power from a power source that is external to the first nanogrid node and within the premises; a switch coupled to connect or disconnect the first nanogrid node from the power source; a rechargeable battery; a power output to provide power to a load within the premises; a communication interface configured to implement a peer-to-peer wireless connection with at least a second nanogrid node of the plurality of peer nanogrid nodes within the premises; and a processing unit, including at least one programmable processor and memory, configured to control the nanogrid node to manage power flow within the premises cooperatively with the second nanogrid node, including to control operation of the switch to cause power to be provided to the power output selectively from the power supply input or from the battery.

45. The first nanogrid node of claim 44, wherein the peer-to-peer wireless connection comprises a wireless mesh network connection.

46. The first nanogrid node of claim 44, wherein the first nanogrid node further communicates with a third nanogrid node, of the plurality of nanogrid nodes, via the communication interface, such that the first nanogrid node, the second nanogrid node and the third nanogrid node form at least a portion of a wireless mesh network of nanogrid nodes.

47. The first nanogrid node of claim 44, wherein the processing unit is configured to manage the peer-to-peer wireless connection by continuously monitoring network conditions and adjusting one or more communication parameters based on the network conditions to achieve a specified quality of data exchange with the second nanogrid node.

48. The first nanogrid node of claim 44, wherein the processing unit is configured to control the peer-to-peer wireless connection to cause one or more power management commands for real-time management of power flow within the premises to be communicated between the first nanogrid node and the second nanogrid node.

49. The first nanogrid node of claim 48, wherein the one or more power management commands include: first a command to charge or discharge a battery within one of the plurality of nanogrid nodes; a second command to curtail use of solar power within the premises; and a third command to manage power to a connected load within the premises.

50. The first nanogrid node of claim 44, wherein the processing unit is configured to repeatedly receive and apply new software via an over-the-air (OTA) software update process.

51. The first nanogrid node of claim 44, wherein the processing unit is configured to repeatedly update a data model of a power system of the premises.

52. The first nanogrid node of claim 51, wherein the processing unit is configured to control the peer-to-peer wireless connection to cause the data model of the power system of the premises to be shared between the first nanogrid node and the second nanogrid node.

53. The first nanogrid node of claim 44, wherein the processing unit is configured to cause the first nanogrid node to control power flow within the premises to provide power from the first nanogrid node to a load within the premises in response to a detected failure of the second nanogrid node.

54. The first nanogrid node of claim 44, wherein the processing unit is configured to control the first nanogrid node to provide a single point of communication, for the plurality of nanogrid nodes, to a third-party energy system, via an Internet Protocol (IP) network.

55. The first nanogrid node of claim 44, wherein the processing unit is configured to monitor power, energy and / or data collection at an aggregate level for the premises.

56. The first nanogrid node of claim 44, wherein the peer-to-peer wireless connection comprises a wireless mesh network connection, and wherein the first nanogrid node further communicates with a third nanogrid node, of the plurality of nanogrid nodes, in a mesh wireless mesh network.

57. The first nanogrid node of claim 44, wherein the first nanogrid node is configured to monitor statuses of each of a plurality of other peer nanogrid nodes in the nanogrid system and to dynamically adjust message routing based on the monitored statuses.

58. The first nanogrid node of claim 44, wherein the first nanogrid node is configured to: monitor statuses of each of a plurality of other peer nanogrid nodes in the nanogrid system; determine collective information for the nanogrid system based on the monitored statuses; and generate and dynamically update a graphical user interface including display data indicative of a representation of a distributed energy resource (DER), based on the collective information.

59. The first nanogrid node of claim 44, wherein the first nanogrid node is configured to be dynamically added to and / or removed from the nanogrid system.

60. A nanogrid system for managing power within a premises, the nanogrid system comprising: a plurality of nanogrid nodes configured in a nanogrid system, wherein each nanogrid node includes: a connection to a power source within the premises; a microgrid interconnection device (MID) configured to selectively disconnect from the power source; at least one power management component configured to provide backup power to one or more loads within a portion of the nanogrid system; and a peer-to-peer wireless connection with at least another nanogrid node of the plurality of nanogrid nodes, wherein the nanogrid node is configured to modify the operation of the MID and the power management component based on information exchanged via the peer-to-peer wireless connection.

61. The nanogrid system of claim 60, further comprising a nanogrid control system implemented on one or more of the nanogrid nodes of the plurality of nanogrid nodes and configured to monitor power, energy and / or data collection at an aggregate level for the premises.

62. The nanogrid system of claim 61, wherein the nanogrid control system is implemented in two or more separate computing devices.

63. The nanogrid system of claim 60, wherein the peer-to-peer wireless connection comprises a wireless mesh network connection.

64. The nanogrid system of claim 60, wherein a first nanogrid node of the plurality of nanogrid nodes is connected to an internet protocol (IP) network., and wherein a second nanogrid node of the plurality of nanogrid nodes is configured to connect to the IP network when the first nanogrid node loses the connection to the IP network.

65. The nanogrid system of claim 60, wherein each nanogrid node of the plurality of nanogrid nodes is configured to monitor status of its peer-to-peer connection(s) and to dynamically adjust message routing based on the monitoring.

66. The nanogrid system of claim 60, wherein each nanogrid node of the plurality of nanogrid nodes is configured to be dynamically added to and / or removed from the nanogrid system or a portion thereof.

67. A computer readable medium having instructions thereon, execution of which within a nanogrid system causes the nanogrid system to perform operations comprising: communicating with each of a plurality of nanogrid nodes in the nanogrid system within a premises, wherein at least some of the communication is through multiple nanogrid nodes communicating other each other peer-to-peer; and performing nanogrid system level analysis and / or updates based on the communicating.

68. The computer readable medium of claim 67, wherein analysis and / or updates comprise one of optimizing building-level energy and power, determining aggregate available energystorage capacity, determining net energy accumulation, providing instant charge / discharge power to a premises wiring system, determining available net power to be imported from the premises wiring system to nanogrid nodes, determining available net power to be exported to the premises wiring system from nanogrid systems, determining a status of connected loads, or determining system status and availability.

69. The computer readable medium of claim 67, wherein the analysis and / or updates comprise maintaining up-to-date aggregated views of multiple nanogrids within a common premises, wherein each of the nanogrids of the multiple nanogrids comprises a unique subset of the plurality of nanogrid nodes.

70. The computer readable medium of claim 67, wherein the analysis and / or updates comprise a model to identify electrical anomalies, thermal anomalies, or safety risks across a premises electrical distribution system.

71. The computer readable medium of claim 67, wherein the analysis and / or updates comprise reconciling requests and setpoints across the plurality of nanogrid nodes.

72. The computer readable medium of claim 71, wherein the reconciling requests and setpoints comprises prioritization based on user inputs or physical constraints of the electrical distribution system.

73. The computer readable medium of claim 72, wherein the physical constraints of the electrical distribution system comprise current ratings of conductors.

74. A method for providing a unified representation of a nanogrid system including a plurality of nanogrid nodes, the method comprising: receiving, at a computing device via a communication network formed with the plurality of nanogrid nodes, data regarding the operation of each nanogrid node of the plurality of nanogrid nodes; and determining aggregated information for the nanogrid system based on the received data; providing, to a computing or graphical interface, a representation of a distributed energy resource (“DER”) based on the aggregated information.I . The method of claim 74, further comprising at least one of: managing energy within a premises electrical wiring system based on the DER; or performing power control within a premises electrical wiring system based on the DER.

76. A self-contained nanogrid system comprising: a power supply input to receive power from a primary power source that is within a premises and external to the self-contained nanogrid system; a switch coupled to selectively connect or disconnect the self-contained nanogrid system from the primary power source; a battery to provide backup power when power from the primary power source is not available; a direct current (DC) power bus coupled to the battery; an alternating current (AC) power bus coupled to the power supply input via the switch; a bidirectional inverter coupled between the AC power bus and the DC power bus; an integrated load coupled to receive power from one of the AC power bus or the DC power bus; a power output to provide power from one of the AC power bus or the DC power bus to an external load external to the nanogrid system within the premises; a processing unit, including at least one programmable processor and memory, configured to control operations of the self-contained nanogrid system, including operation of the switch; and a housing containing the switch, the battery, the DC power bus, the AC power bus, the bidirectional inverter, the integrated load and the processing unit, and at least partially containing the power supply input and the power output.

77. The self-contained nanogrid system of claim 76, further comprising an appliance designed for use in a residential premises, wherein the housing further contains the appliance.

78. The self-contained nanogrid system of claim 77, wherein the appliance comprises at least one of: a refrigerator, a freezer, an air conditioner or a water heater.

79. The self-contained nanogrid system of claim 77, further comprising: a thermal management system, implemented at least in part by the processing unit, to provide collective thermal management of the appliance and one or more other components ofthe self-contained nanogrid system, such that a heat dissipative property of the appliance is used to dissipate heat produced by the one or more other components.

80. The self-contained nanogrid system of claim 76, wherein the bidirectional inverter is controllable to operate in a plurality of modes, including a grid-forming mode and a gridfollowing mode.

81. The self-contained nanogrid system of claim 76, wherein the integrated load is coupled to receive power from the AC power bus, the nanogrid system further comprising a second integrated load coupled to receive power from the DC power bus.

82. The self-contained nanogrid system of claim 76, wherein the integrated load is coupled to receive power from the DC power bus, the nanogrid system further comprising a second integrated load coupled to receive power from the AC power bus.

83. The self-contained nanogrid system of claim 76, further comprising a solar photovoltaic input, coupled to the DC power bus, to receive power from a photovoltaic array external to the nanogrid system and coupled to provide the power from the photovoltaic array to the DC power bus.

84. The self-contained nanogrid system of claim 76, wherein the nanogrid system is configured to receive modular physical attachment of at least one of: a user-replaceable battery module; or a photovoltaic maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) converter module.

85. The self-contained nanogrid system of claim 76, wherein the integrated load comprises a motor or compressor.

86. The self-contained nanogrid system of claim 76, wherein the processing unit is configured to control thermal management of at least the battery and the integrated load collectively.

87. The self-contained nanogrid system of claim 76, further comprising: a refrigeration or cooling appliance; anda heat transfer mechanism designed to transfer heat between the battery and the refrigeration or cooling appliance.

88. The self-contained nanogrid system of claim 76, wherein the heat transfer mechanism comprises an active heat transfer element.

89. The self-contained nanogrid system of claim 76, further comprising: a first user-accessible power receptable coupled to the AC power bus, to provide AC power to a first user-connected load connected externally to the nanogrid system; and a second user-accessible power receptable coupled to the DC power bus to provide DC power to a second user-connected load connected externally to the nanogrid system.

90. The self-contained nanogrid system of claim 76, further comprising: a communication interface configured to implement a wireless connection between the nanogrid system and a second nanogrid system within the premises.

91. The self-contained nanogrid system of claim 90, wherein the nanogrid system is configured to communicate with the second nanogrid system via the communication interface to perform or cause at least one of: communicating with a microgrid within the premises to coordinate energy and power management of one or more batteries and one or more connected loads; maintaining internet connectivity; or communicating with remote sensors or actuators located within the premises.

92. The self-contained nanogrid system of claim 76, wherein the processing unit is configured to: monitor AC power received at the power supply input; and control the switch to automatically disconnect the nanogrid system from the primary power source in event of a power anomaly of the AC power received at the power supply input.

93. The self-contained nanogrid system of claim 76, wherein the processing unit is configured to: receive information from a connected load; andselectively modify power provided by the battery or another backup power source connected to the nanogrid system, based on the information received from the connected load.

94. The self-contained nanogrid system of claim 76, wherein the processing unit is configured to: monitor appliance performance information of an appliance connected as an external load to the nanogrid system; dynamically determine, based on the appliance performance information, a power and energy management strategy while a nanogrid of the nanogrid system is intentionally islanded; and execute the power and energy management strategy to improve a duration of backup power availability and maintain stability of the nanogrid.

95. A self-contained nanogrid system comprising: an enclosure; a power supply input, at least partially contained within the enclosure, to receive power from a primary power source that is within a premises and external to the self- contained nanogrid system; a relay contained within the enclosure and coupled to selectively connect or disconnect the self-contained nanogrid system from the primary power source; a direct current (DC) power bus contained within the enclosure; an alternating current (AC) power bus contained within the enclosure coupled to the power supply input via the relay ; a bidirectional inverter contained within the enclosure and coupled between the AC power bus and the DC power bus; a battery, contained within the enclosure and coupled to the DC power bus, to provide backup power when power from the primary power source is not available; a solar photovoltaic input, at least partially contained within the enclosure and coupled to the DC power bus, to receive power from a photovoltaic array external to the nanogrid system; an AC load contained within the enclosure and coupled to receive power from the AC power bus;a DC load contained within the enclosure and coupled to receive power from the DC power bus; an AC power output, at least partially contained within the enclosure, to provide power from the AC power bus to an external AC load external to the nanogrid system within the premises; a DC power output, at least partially contained within the enclosure, to provide power from the DC power bus to an external DC load external to the nanogrid system within the premises; and a processing unit, contained within the enclosure and including at least one programmable processor and memory, configured to control operations of the self-contained nanogrid system, including to control operation of the relay in response to a detected anomaly of the primary power source.

96. A self-contained nanogrid system comprising: an enclosure; a power supply input, at least partially contained within the enclosure, arranged to receive power from a primary power source that is within a premises and external to the self- contained nanogrid system; a switch contained within the enclosure and coupled to selectively connect or disconnect the self-contained nanogrid system from the primary power source; a direct current (DC) power bus contained within the enclosure; an alternating current (AC) power bus contained within the enclosure coupled to the power supply input via the switch ; a bidirectional inverter contained within the enclosure and coupled between the AC power bus and the DC power bus; a battery, contained within the enclosure and coupled to the DC power bus; an integrated load contained within the enclosure and coupled to receive power from one of the AC power bus or the DC power bus; a power output, at least partially contained within the enclosure, arranged to provide power from at least one of the AC power bus or the DC power bus to a load external to the nanogrid system within the premises; and a processing unit, contained within the enclosure and including at least one programmable processor and memory, configured todetect an anomaly of the primary power source and control operation of the switch in response to detection of the anomaly, manage charging and discharging of the battery, and coordinate power usage by a plurality of loads housed within and / or connected externally to the nanogrid system, by selectively changing a power state of at least one of the plurality of loads.

97. The self-contained nanogrid system of claim 21, further comprising an appliance that provides a cooling function, wherein the processing unit is further configured to control thermal management of the appliance and one or more other components of the self-contained nanogrid system.

98. The self-contained nanogrid system of claim 22, wherein the processing unit is further configured to control the thermal management by causing a heat dissipative property of the appliance to be used to dissipate heat produced by the one or more other components.

99. The self-contained nanogrid system of claim 21, a solar photovoltaic input, at least partially contained within the enclosure and coupled to the DC power bus, to receive power from a photovoltaic array external to the nanogrid system.

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