Utility meter bypass systems, methods, and devices

Abstract

Bypass systems can be used to connect alternative energy sources to existing distribution panels without the need to replace or upgrade the distribution panel. Some such bypass systems may be integrated directly into an electric meter, while others can be connected to the meter but located laterally or otherwise away from the electric meter. The bypass busbars and breakers may in some devices be interchangeable, allowing for greater flexibility and capacity of the bypass systems.

1 . An electric meter bypass extension including at least one bypass breaker, the extension comprising:
 a housing including at least a first side, a portion of the first side of the housing being substantially planar;   a connection portion extending substantially parallel to the first side of the housing, the connection portion including a plurality of load-side conductive members configured to be placed in electrical contact with a portion of a circuit extending between the load side of an electric meter and a separate breaker panel; and   at least one bypass breaker disposed at least partially within the housing and in electrical communication with the plurality of load-side conductive members.   
     
     
         2 . The extension of  claim 1 , additionally comprising a plurality of line-side conductive members configured to transmit power from external power lines to a metering device, the plurality of line-side conductive members not connected within the extension to the plurality of load-side conductive members; 
     
     
         3 . An electrical system, comprising:
 a circuit breaker panel;   an electrical meter bypass extension including at least one bypass breaker, the extension comprising:
 a plurality of load-side conductive members configured to be placed in electrical contact with a portion of a circuit extending between the load side of an electric meter and a separate breaker panel; and 
 at least one bypass breaker disposed at least partially within the housing and in electrical communication with the plurality of load-side conductive members, the at least one bypass breaker configured to receive power from an alternative energy source; 
   a battery in electrical communication with the circuit breaker panel; and   an inverter in electrical communication with the circuit breaker panel and configured to convert DC power from the battery into AC power.