Pepco Approves ConnectDER Meter Socket Adapters for EV Charging

ConnectDER has announced that Pepco, the electric utility serving the Washington, D.C. region, has approved its line of meter socket adapters (MSAs) for residential installations. These devices, commonly called meter collars, attach directly between the utility meter and the existing meter socket, creating a direct connection for electric vehicle charging equipment, solar panels, and battery storage systems.

By bypassing the main distribution board, meter socket adapters can significantly reduce installation complexity and labor. According to the company, installing an EV MSA allows homeowners with 100-amp service panels to support dedicated Level 2 EV charging without undergoing a full service capacity increase or main panel swap. ConnectDER's adapters are UL-listed and compliant with the National Electrical Code, with approvals across 54 U.S. utility service territories.

What Meter Collars and Panel Solutions Mean for San Diego Drivers

For homeowners in San Diego County, managing electrical capacity is often one of the biggest considerations when preparing for home EV charging. Older properties across communities like San Diego and El Cajon frequently feature 100-amp main service panels that fill up quickly once air conditioning, major appliances, and a 240-volt charging circuit are connected.

While utility-approved meter collar adapters offer a compelling option in some jurisdictions, local installation depends strictly on utility rules and municipal building codes. When standard meter collar options are not permitted or practical, homeowners can explore smart load management systems to safely add a Level 2 charger to an existing 100-amp board. These devices continuously monitor home energy consumption and adjust charging power to prevent circuit overloads.

In cases where energy demands exceed existing capacity—or when adding multiple vehicles—a traditional electrical panel upgrade provides a permanent, long-term solution. Every 240V circuit installation in San Diego County requires a standard electrical permit and city inspection to ensure safety, proper wiring, and code compliance regardless of the specific equipment used.