Inspired by the growing demand for private solar, SDG&E invented the Renewable Meter Adapter, a device that helps make private solar safer, faster and more affordable for many SDG&E customers. The innovation, which was first introduced in August of 2015, has helped private solar customers collectively save more than $5 million on the costs to go solar.
The Renewable Meter Adapter was invented to overcome a growing obstacle on the pathway to private solar – electrical panel upgrades. Typically, homes built before 1995—or nearly three quarters of American homes—require electric panel upgrades before connecting private solar. These upgrades, which can cost up to $10,000, often include construction to walls, stucco and landscaping, introducing additional delays and permitting requirements.
Now, the Renewable Meter Adapter device can be purchased from SDG&E for $1,326 and installed within 30 minutes, completing work that would have previously taken days and required additional electrical inspections and additional trips to the home by SDG&E.
Check out Connect’s spotlight on some of Cleantech’s best and brightest innovations that are finalists in the Most Innovative New Product awards.