Stephan Scherer Urges State Legislators to Adopt Tiered Wattage and Export Limits for Plug-in Solar Systems
Stephan Scherer, CEO of CraftStrom, argues that the next wave of state legislation for plug-in solar systems should adopt a tiered wattage definition and clear export limits to ensure both household safety and grid reliability. While many states, including Utah, Colorado, and Maine, have already begun legalizing these systems, Scherer notes that simply copying Germany's model without adjustment is insufficient for American infrastructure. He suggests a tiered approach where systems up to 420 watts are considered a 'safe harbor' for non-dedicated circuits, while systems exceeding 420 watts require a Power Conversion System (PCS) to prevent home fire risks and circuit overloads. To address utility concerns, Scherer recommends limiting electricity export to the grid at 400 watts. This strategy aims to prevent a 'race to the bottom' for cheap hardware that could jeopardize safety. By establishing these clear regulatory lanes, state legislators can quickly provide cost-saving energy solutions for residents without requiring the complex interconnection agreements typically associated with large-scale solar installations.