Utility Disconnect Switch

Craig
Craig Registered Users Posts: 5 ✭
in Grid Tie and Grid Interactive Systems #1
Recently been seeing layouts with Utility Disconnect installed between utility and bi-directional utility meter. In the past only saw disconect between meter and main panel (and this is seen also with generator backup systems). Is this new? Code? Does it matter?

Note: It has been a decade since last considering solar electric.
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  • inetdog
    inetdog Solar Expert Posts: 3,123 ✭✭✭✭
    #2
    Re: Utility Disconnect Switch
    Craig wrote: »
    Recently been seeing layouts with Utility Disconnect installed between utility and bi-directional utility meter. In the past only saw disconect between meter and main panel (and this is seen also with generator backup systems). Is this new? Code? Does it matter?

    Note: It has been a decade since last considering solar electric.
    Whether there is or is not a disconnect between the service drop and the meter is the business of the utility only. If it is not a fused disconnect or a breaker, it is not the Service Disconnect under the NEC.
    Some POCOs require it, especially on larger services, to make it safer for them to change out the meter or work on the meter socket. Other POCOs prohibit it since it could be come an access point for a power stealing tap.

    Code (NEC) does not say one way or the other as long as it is NOT the service disconnect. If it is the service disconnect, the wiring from that point downstream is subject to different rules, especially about grounding and bonding, and the existing wiring might no longer be compliant once that additional disconnect is added.
    It needs to be looked at on a case by case basis.
    SMA SB 3000, old BP panels.
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