Electrical energy control system

Abstract

An apparatus for the control of electrical energy use by an end-user includes a control panel that is disposed in an electrical distribution panel. The control panel includes a microprocessor and control lines that are adapted to set a main circuit breaker in an on or an off position as well as a plurality of the individual branch circuits. The control panel can be programmed by the end-user to comply with mandatory power outages to shut off the main circuit breaker when desired and to maintain it off for a predetermined period of time. Upon resumption of power, the control panel turns on the individual branch circuit breakers one at a time, pauses, and then turns on the next, and so on until all of the branch circuit breakers have been turned back on. According to an enhancement, the utility company can program the control panel via a telephone line and verify compliance with any required power outage.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.