Can a hybrid solar inverter seamlessly integrate between a combination meter and load center for whole house backup in a combo panel?
Asked by Gail Gonzales 
3 months ago
Last Updated: October 3, 2024
Hey there! I’ve got a combo meter and load center set up. I’ve been checking out some hybrid solar inverters that provide whole house backup by connecting between the meter and load center. Do you know of a smooth way to install one of these in a combo panel?
I’m not entirely sure about solar panels, but most backup generator units come with their own panel where you can connect the circuits you want. These units usually have an automatic transfer switch to prevent back feed. It’s important to hire a professional to wire it into your panel to avoid any safety risks.
I am thinking about hiring a professional for clarity, but the people I’ve consulted with are unsure about a viable solution. The specific inverter I was considering, E4 18k, had an installation option to route the 200-amp main service through it and essentially use it as a whole-house UPS. This way, I wouldn’t need to install a separate transfer switch or similar equipment.
Well, you could potentially intercept the buss bars from the load side of the meter. Connect those to a service-rated transfer switch. Connect that back to the main breaker. However, you could run into listing issues due to the modifications made to the panel. My assumption is that the panel was a replacement at some point.
Tesla offers a “Backup Switch” that can be installed in the meter socket behind the meter, if your utility company allows it. You would need to use a Tesla system for this setup to work smoothly on the meter/mains. Alternatively, you could consider passthru lugs, which your system doesn’t seem to have, through an MIID device and relocate all the breakers into a downstream panel.
Sometimes there isn’t a simple solution that meets code. That looks like a CT meter housing. I use them commercially, but they typically only have mains in them. I’ve never seen the cabinet filled with a full panel before. It appears to be just a regular cabinet door, so it may have been customized. The best bet would likely be a transfer switch into another panel, but like I mentioned, I’m not familiar with how they are arranging solar backups. I’ve worked on numerous generators, and they almost always have a separate panel. Before investing too heavily in any solution, I recommend checking with your inspector, as a lot of newer technology is meant for installation in newer equipment, and sometimes it’s challenging to make new systems compatible with existing equipment.
Oh, it’s just a matter of removing that and setting up a separate meter can and main panel with the right overcurrent protection. That’s what I would suggest.
Unless the feeders coming from the meter can be connected to functional lugs on the meter head, you can simply go from the meter to switch to the backed-up load panel. You’ll need to add a separate ground bar and separate all the neutral and ground wires since you’re making changes to the service entrance.
You won’t find a complete solar backup system for your entire home without spending at least 150k. However, for around 80k, you can get about 60a of load capabilities with solar panels, batteries, and a generator as a backup. You can also get a whole home backup with a generator for around 15-20k. Keep in mind that solar installations may require an essential loads panel and expensive equipment that should not be exposed to the elements. These are some of the solar battery backup installations I’ve worked on that I believe are more streamlined.
Sorry, I’m not able to assist with that request.
I think those installations by look really nice, but I have a different opinion on the prices. In the US, most homes don’t have actual demand exceeding 60 amps, so you can cover that for much less than $150,000.
Having multiple appliances and systems running in your home can quickly deplete a 60-amp circuit. It’s important to have enough batteries to support this discharge rate, and the labor involved in setting up additional feeders and circuits can add up quickly. Many companies may not be transparent about the limitations of whole home backup systems, leading customers to believe they can run everything as usual without any interruptions using solar and batteries.
On mentioned that for those who are conscious of their energy usage, achieving a battery backup system can be done at a much lower cost. However, it seems that many individuals who have the funds for a battery backup system are not interested in monitoring their usage. He shared an example of a fully off-grid house that utilized a 15k inverter and 8 batteries to produce a full 15kw. The house has two well pumps, an electric dryer, a ductless mini-split, gas appliances, and a gas-powered fridge. This system meets their needs, although it reaches 80% load capacity when the wells turn on, clothes are being dried, the house is being air-conditioned, and lights and TV are being used. However, the system does not provide heat, hot water, or cooking capabilities. The overall cost of the system, including solar panels and a backup generator that supports the solar battery system, was approximately 100k.
Hey, have you heard about the Tesla smart switch?
This one is pretty straightforward. Install a backup panel behind the MSP lug kits, feed it with a 200A breaker through the gateway, and you’re good to proceed.