Home electric panels are in the spotlight these days. Installers are seeking ways to add solar + battery storage and/or EV charging for customers — as well as some level of load management — without requiring too much electrical work and/or costly upgrades.
We’ve detailed many such solutions the last few years. The latest comes via Schneider Electric, which announced modular Square D Control Relays and the Schneider Energy Monitor to add “smart panel functionality” to standard home electrical systems. This solution, offer homeowners app-based control with an easier installation and at a lower cost than a full smart panel replacement.
The relays provide circuit-level-control and system-wide energy monitoring. The Square D Control Relays are designed to snap directly onto the Square D QO Plug-on Neutral breakers, while the Schneider Energy Monitor can be added directly into the panel at the same time. Commissioning for both devices can be done quickly through the app.
“We are facing new and increasing challenges in powering our homes with resiliency issues from the electrical grid and the rising cost of utility power,” said Pape Ndaw, Senior Vice President, Home & Distribution Hub-North America, Schneider Electric. “We are excited to bring to market an easy-to-install solution that empowers homeowners nationwide to address these issues.”
Schneider Electric keeps tweaking its smart home product offering.
- In 2021, the Square D Energy Center was launched for new homes in California to combine residential distributed energy resources, including utility power, solar power, energy storage, and generators.
- In January, the company introduced Schneider Home, a complete energy management solution, including a home battery for clean energy storage, a high-power solar inverter, a smart electrical panel, an electric vehicle charger, and connected electric sockets and light switches – all controlled by the Schneider Home app.
This launch of the Square D Control Relays and Schneider Energy Monitor is the most affordable option in this line yet. Available at electrical distributors nationwide, these solutions can be installed by a licensed electrician.
— Solar Builder magazine
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