Abstract: In one example, an active cover plate includes a faceplate, a load and a spring clip adjustable in at least one of a horizontal direction and a vertical direction with respect to the faceplate to electrically interface with a receptacle body and extract electrical power from the receptacle body to energize the load. A method for installing an active cover plate on an electrical receptacle is also provided.

Abstract: In one example, a modified electrical device includes a body and at least one connector on the body to make power and control connections with an active cover plate. A system includes an active cover plate comprising low voltage circuitry and a first interface and a modified electrical device. The modified electrical device includes high voltage circuitry and a second interface to connect to the first interface to supply low voltage to the active cover plate. A method for controlling a flow of power through a modified electrical device is also provided.

Abstract: In one example, an active cover plate includes a faceplate, a load and a spring clip adjustable in at least one of a horizontal direction and a vertical direction with respect to the faceplate to electrically interface with a receptacle body and extract electrical power from the receptacle body to energize the load. A method for installing an active cover plate on an electrical receptacle is also provided.

Abstract: One example embodiment includes a cover plate for an electrical receptacle. The cover plate includes a first conducting strip. The first conducting strip protrudes rearward from the cover plate and is configured to contact a first terminal of a receptacle, where the first terminal connects the receptacle to a power source. The cover plate also includes a first insulating means, where the first insulating means prevents the first conducting strip from contacting other conducting materials. The cover plate further includes a second conducting strip. The second conducting strip protrudes rearward from the cover plate and is configured to contact a second terminal of the receptacle, where the second terminal completes the connection of the receptacle to the power source. The cover plate additionally includes a second insulating means, where the second insulating means prevents the second conducting strip from contacting other conducting materials. The cover plate also includes a load.