This mindset continues to guide SmartPlug’s product development. Today, the team evaluates each design decision against the original goal: reduce overheating and improve shore power safety. That focus has shaped nearly two decades of innovation.
Since 2007, SmartPlug has worked to address one of the leading causes of shore power failure and fire on boats and RVs: overheating. Our patented sleeve-in design eliminates 80-year-old twist-lock technology, providing over 27 times the metal-to-metal contact area. As a result, it creates a cooler, more reliable connection. This innovation represents a major advancement in power delivery since the 1930s.
Many people assume electrical shorts cause most shore power failures and fires. However, the greatest risk often comes from overheating caused by poor electrical conductivity at the connection point. Over time, loose or compromised connections generate excessive heat, creating a serious safety hazard before a breaker or GFCI can interrupt the power.
Shore power delivery systems remained virtually unchanged since their introduction in 1938. That changed when SmartPlug set out to improve the connection.
The patented sleeve-in design eliminates the need for twist-lock connections. Instead, the full sleeve makes contact across a much larger surface area, providing over 27 times the metal-to-metal contact of a standard connector. Consequently, the connection produces less resistance and less heat, helping address a major cause of shore power fires.
Although the design may appear simple, its impact is significant. SmartPlug connections are built to remain secure under sustained loads. Furthermore, they are designed for demanding conditions, including salt air, freezing rain, and the everyday movement of boats and RVs. This practical innovation helps deliver dependable power without compromising safety.
– John C. Greenwood, Chief Executive Officer
This mindset continues to guide SmartPlug’s product development. Today, the team evaluates each design decision against the original goal: reduce overheating and improve shore power safety. That focus has shaped nearly two decades of innovation.
SmartPlug Systems is a privately held manufacturing firm specializing in power delivery systems. Founded in 2007 and located in Lynnwood, Washington, the company develops innovative solutions for the marine industry. In particular, its patented sleeve-in design replaces conventional twist-lock shore power connectors with a safer, more reliable alternative. SmartPlug serves boat owners, RV users, boatbuilders, and specialty vehicle manufacturers.
We honor SmartPlug founder Ken Smith, whose vision helped shape a safer future for marine electrical connections. His more than 40 years in the marine industry inspired a better approach to shore power safety. In 2007, he turned an initial pencil sketch into a market-ready marine product by 2009.
Ken Smith’s legacy continues to guide SmartPlug Systems. Today, the company builds on his commitment to safety by developing technology for marine and RV industries. Through continued innovation and practical engineering, SmartPlug works to deliver secure, reliable connections for boat owners, RV users, and specialty vehicle applications around the world.
SmartPlug was founded after identifying a persistent problem: shore power fires often started at the same connection point. At the time, few manufacturers had redesigned the connector to address this risk.
The patented sleeve-in connector underwent years of engineering and field testing. During this process, SmartPlug focused on failure points that conventional twist-lock designs could not adequately address.
As awareness grew, adoption expanded from individual boat owners to OEM boatbuilders, dealers, and campground operators. Consequently, more customers gained access to an alternative designed around safer connections.
Today, SmartPlug provides shore power solutions for marine, RV, dockside, and commercial applications. The company continues to build on the same safety-focused approach that inspired its original design.