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 approach to ensure both household safety and grid reliability. While many states, including Utah, Colorado, and Maine, have already begun passing laws to allow residents to plug solar-generating devices directly into home sockets, Scherer notes that current models often lack clear safety specifications. He suggests a 'safe harbor' for systems up to 420 watts that do not require a Power Conversion System (PCS), and requires a PCS for systems exceeding that limit. This tiered model, combined with an export limit of 400 watts to the grid, addresses common concerns from utility companies regarding aging infrastructure. By establishing these clear regulatory lanes, state legislators can quickly provide cost-saving energy solutions for households without requiring the complex construction and utility approval processes associated with larger residential solar installations.