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1. A multi-functional retrofit cover plate and associated assembly components to adapt an electric water heater for interconnection with an alternative energy system to heat water in a water holding tank of said electric water heater, said retrofit cover plate being adapted for replacement connection over a bottom access opening formed in an outer casing of said electric water heater permitting access to a bottom resistive heating element and an associated thermostat and electrical connections, said retrofit cover plate having an outwardly projecting formation to define an internal dedicated compartment behind said retrofit cover plate, said retrofit cover plate being dimensioned for close retention fit against an outer surface of said outer casing to isolate said bottom access opening, said retrofit cover plate further having one or more access passages to provide access to said internal dedicated compartment from outside said retrofit cover plate, said associated assembly components further including a dual resistive heating element for replacement of said bottom resistive heating element, said dual resistive heating element having a replacement resistive heating element and a dedicated resistive heating element for receiving an alternative supply voltage from said alternative, energy system, said associated assembly components further including an electronic switch unit for connection to a controller of said alternative supply voltage, said electronic switch unit having a normally closed power cut-off switch for connection to said alternative supply voltage and said dedicated resistive heating element of said dual resistive heating element, said associated assembly components also including a temperature sensor for securement against an outer surface of said water holding tank in a lower region of said water holding tank, said temperature sensor feeding one or more temperature signals indicative of water temperature in said lower region of said water holding tank to a programmable electronic switching circuit of said electronic switch unit, said programmable electronic switching circuit operating said normally closed power cut-off switch to an open contact position to cut off said alternative supply voltage upon said water temperature attaining a set programed threshold water temperature.
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