Laboratory Evaluation of Residential Smart Panels

This report presents findings from the laboratory evaluation of residential smart panels. This study, carried out by the California Lighting Technology Center (CLTC) in collaboration with Vermont Energy Investment Corporation (VEIC), aims to assess the capabilities, integration opportunities, and market potential of commercially available smart panels. VEIC conducted a market assessment in a previous effort, Market Study of Household Electric Infrastructure Upgrade Alternatives for Electrification, that provided the CLTC team with a foundational overview of products currently available in the market. CLTC conducted an independent market assessment through web-based searches, direct communication with product distributors, and extensive engagement with manufacturers. To support testing, the research team prepared a dedicated laboratory space at CLTC with adequate electrical infrastructure to sufficiently load the panels being evaluated. In parallel with laboratory testing, the project team conducted stakeholder engagement to assess market readiness, technical understanding, and adoption barriers for smart electrical panels. Collectively, this engagement effort informs key challenges and opportunities for smart panel adoption across utility, installation, and inspection stakeholders, and supports the evaluation of their potential to enable safe, cost-effective electrification.