Introducing IslandDER's Residential Energy Storage System for Home Use

In the rapidly evolving world of renewable energy, a new product is making waves in the industry. IslandDER, a creation by ConnectDER, is revolutionising the way homes can integrate solar panels, electric vehicle (EV) chargers, and residential storage batteries.

The IslandDER Meter Socket Adapter (MSA) is designed to connect these energy-saving devices without the need to touch the breaker panel, a significant advantage for older homes with 100 amp service that may struggle to handle modern conveniences. With the rise of rooftop solar, home EV chargers, and residential storage batteries, overloading circuit breaker panels in older homes has become a growing concern.

The IslandDER MSA is easily installed between the meter socket and utility meter, a process that can be carried out by a licensed electrician or participating utility meter technician. This installation eliminates the need for complex electrical work, integrating "islanding" functionality directly into the meter socket, a feature that allows homes with rooftop solar and/or a residential storage battery to keep the lights on during a grid outage.

The IslandDER product is compatible with a variety of battery systems, including lithium-ion, lead-acid, and flow battery systems. It is also compatible with multiple leading batteries, such as SolarEdge Nexis Solution, FranklinWH's aPower 2 and aPower S, Lunar Energy's Lunar System, and EcoFlow's OCEAN Pro. However, it's currently unclear if IslandDER's equipment is compatible with Tesla's Powerwall battery systems.

IslandDER's innovative approach to residential energy storage is not limited to the United States. In 2023, New Jersey passed legislation requiring public electric utilities to authorise the installation and operation of a "meter collar adapter" like IslandDER, as long as it meets certain safety and code requirements. California's PG&E and SDG&E are also promoting innovative vehicle-to-grid and Builder's Express programs to simplify interconnection processes.

The IslandDER unit costs $600 and can save installers hours to days on battery energy storage system installs. Its minimal installation compared to the cost of replacing the breaker panel makes it a cost-effective solution for homeowners. The MSA is UL listed and NEC certified, ensuring safety and compliance with industry standards.

For those interested in purchasing IslandDER, ConnectDER's website provides a link to check if its products have been approved for use in a specific area. The company is expected to expand its distribution nationwide in the next few years, making it easier for homeowners to take steps towards a more sustainable and resilient energy future.

By streamlining partial and whole-home backup systems, IslandDER can help homeowners avoid surprise costs that can make electrification financially unreachable. As we move towards a future where renewable energy becomes the norm, solutions like IslandDER are essential in making the transition smoother and more accessible for everyone.