Parallel Energy Source Disconnect for Load Center Amperage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrical distribution systems for multi-unit complexes with parallel energy sources, such as solar panels, are limited by amperage restrictions, preventing the use of larger parallel energy sources and resulting in reduced electricity credits for owners.
Innovation Solution
The system includes a main load center panel with a parallel energy source disconnect that can handle an amperage rating equal to the owner load center, allowing larger parallel energy sources to be used while providing full electrical credits, and features a modular design for compact and efficient installations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If parallel energy sources are connected to the sub-panel on the load side of the meter stack, then the system can accommodate parallel energy sources, but the amperage rating of the parallel energy source is limited by the sub-panel's bus bar rating
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the electrical distribution system into separate functional components: a main panel for utility power distribution and a dedicated parallel energy source panel for alternative power sources. This segmentation allows each panel to be independently rated and sized, enabling the parallel energy source panel to have an amperage rating that matches the owner load center without being constrained by sub-panel bus bar limitations in conventional systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a main panel as an intermediary component between the utility power source and the owner load center. The main panel receives utility power and distributes it to the owner load center, while the parallel energy source disconnect and panel operate independently. This intermediary structure allows the parallel energy source to be rated at the full amperage of the owner load center without being limited by intermediate sub-panel constraints.
2Power
If the parallel energy source disconnect has an amperage rating equal to the owner load center, then full electrical credits can be provided to owners, but the device complexity and wiring requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the main disconnect and parallel energy source disconnect functions into a single integrated main panel assembly. The main panel houses both the main disconnect for utility power and the parallel energy source disconnect for alternative power sources, allowing both disconnects to share common bus bars and wiring infrastructure. This merging reduces overall wiring complexity while maintaining the high amperage rating capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The main panel is designed with universal bus bars that can accommodate both utility power distribution and parallel energy source connections. The bus bars are rated to handle the full amperage of the owner load center and can serve multiple functions: receiving utility power, distributing to the owner load center, and accepting parallel energy source input. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated wiring paths for each function.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the use of larger parallel energy sources, providing full electrical credits to owners and minimizing wiring, resulting in a more efficient and compact electrical distribution system.
Implementation Method 1
The one or more parallel energy sources may be photo-voltaic cells (e.g., solar panels, or the like)
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical distribution system having a meter socket, load center combination apparatus is disclosed. The meter socket, load center combination apparatus has an enclosure having a meter socket section with a meter socket configured to receive an owner utility meter, an owner load center with a plurality of locations configured to receive circuit interface devices, and a combination cross bus connection section extending between sides of the enclosure, the cross bus connection section having one or more side openings configured to allow electrical connection to one or more main cross bus bars of a main panel, a parallel energy source disconnect, and a parallel energy source coupled to the parallel energy source disconnect. Methods of configuring electrical distribution systems are disclosed, as are other aspects.