ESIM Summary Rev 3 Electric Service Installation Manual

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Electric Service
Installation Manual
A guide for successful installation of residential,
commercial and industrial electrical services.

FIFTH EDITION

Hawaiian Electric Company
Hawaii Electric Light Company
Maui Electric Company

Electric Service
Installation Manual

Hawaiian Electric Company
Hawaii Electric Light Company
Maui Electric Company

Fifth Edition

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Fifth edition
First printing: August 2006

ESIM Summary
The purpose of the latest revision to the ESIM is to eliminate the number of repetitive and
redundant information, correct discrepancies and to condense and reduce the size of the
manual to make it more user friendly.
The following is a brief overview of the changes that were made to the ESIM.
Section 1 General Requirements
•
•
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•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Combined Sections 1, 2, 3, 4 and renamed General Requirements.
Removed Service Request form.
Removed Definitions.
Removed EUSERC notes.
Removed Service Connection notes.
Removed Transformer Installation notes.
Removed Meter & Misc. Service Equip. on Customer Property notes.
Removed Ownership and Maintenance of Facilities notes.
Removed Loss or Damage notes.
Removed Customer Equipment Responsibility notes.
Removed Right of Access notes.
Removed Aluminum Service Entrance Conductor notes.
Removed Operating and Instrument Transformer notes.
Removed Metering notes.
Removed Two Services notes.
Removed Locked Area notes.
Removed Protective and Controlling Equipment notes.
Added One Call System Information.
Added Easement Area Notes.
Added Two or more building on one lot notes.
Added Net Metering contact information.

Section 2 Overhead Service
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Combined Sections 5, 6 and renamed Overhead Service.
Removed redundant diagrams and details.
Replaced 2-1/2” Galvanized Mast with 3”.
Revised #4 mast guy wire to 3/16” wire rope.
Revised Swimming Pool clearances.
Revised Overhead service drop height clearance diagram.
Revised temporary meter pole diagram.

Created on 3/27/2006 9:22:00 AM

Section 3 Underground Service
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Combined Sections 7, 8 and renamed Underground Service.
Removed redundant diagrams and details.
Revised Underground Service diagrams.
Revised Duct Details.
Included Marker Tape in Duct Details.
Added additional Temporary service stand details.
Added Transformer Pad details.
Revised Transformer pad clearance details
Updated handhole and manhole standards.
Added retaining wall requirements.
Removed handhole grouping detail.

Section 4 Metering
•
•
•

Renumbered from Section 9.
Divided into two sections, Self-contained and Transformer-rated metering.
5 subsections.

1. General
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Added plan and elevation drawing clearances from equipment or structures.
Added meter relocation note when enclosing garage or carports.
Added photographs of meter working space clearance.
Consolidated the requirements for Electrical Room, Meter Closet, or Enclosed
Area.
Added photos showing clearances for Freestanding Meter Enclosure.
Added viewing window requirement for Freestanding Meter Enclosure.
Added Diagram of Freestanding Steel-pole Structure .
Added NEC Tap rule.

2. Self-contained Metering
•
•
•
•

Removed the 175 Amps requirement for transformer-rated metering and went
to rating of meter socket. Added note to alert customer.
Added table for number of jaws for self-contained metering only.
Added switchboard enclosure door notes.
Added table of meter mounting heights for different conditions.

3. Instrument Transformer-rated Metering
•
•
•

Added table for number of jaws for transformer-rated metering only.
Added that maximum sets of cable for CT can installation.
Added photos for installing CT mounting brackets in can.

Created on 3/27/2006 9:22:00 AM

•
•

Added switchboard blank and meter socket panel notes.
High-voltage switchgear customer notes.

4. Specialized Metering
•
•
•

Added pulse metering requirements.
Added requirements for telephone connection to a CT can.
Added contact numbers for different types of customer generation for the 3
companies. Also, added reference for net metering.

5. Grounding
•

Updated all grounding drawings in conjunction with City consensusy filling
out a Request for service form.

Section 5 Other Requirements
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Section 10 Removed.
Section 11 Renumbered to Section 5.
Moved street lighting section to back of section.
Removed Transformer Pad details. (relocated to section 3)
Removed Operating clearance details.
(relocated to section 3)
Removed handhole and manhole standards. (relocated to section 3)
Revised vertical clearance on pole details.
Clarified Switching and Protection.
Added Residential Customer Emergency Generator notes.

Created on 3/27/2006 9:22:00 AM

Contents

Chapter 1: General Requirements ...........................................................................................1
About this book ...........................................................................................................2
General .........................................................................................................................2
One-Call System ..........................................................................................................3
Tampering ....................................................................................................................4
Locked Areas ................................................................................................................4
Easement Areas ............................................................................................................4
Two or More Buildings on One Lot ...........................................................................5
General Service Requirements, 2 kV to 15 kV Service..............................................5
Equipment Furnished by Customer.....................................................................5
Drawings................................................................................................................5
Switchgear Bus.......................................................................................................5
Instrument Transformers .....................................................................................6
Closed Transition Switching.................................................................................6
Parallel Operation .................................................................................................6
Net Metering..........................................................................................................6

Chapter 2: Overhead Service....................................................................................................7
General .........................................................................................................................8
Service Drop ................................................................................................................8
Service Drop Attachment ...........................................................................................8
Location of Overhead Services .................................................................................10
Methods of Attaching Service Drops .......................................................................10
Service Entrance Conductors .............................................................................12
Swimming Pool Clearances for Utility Service Drop ..............................................13
Temporary Service ....................................................................................................15

Chapter 3: Underground Service ...........................................................................................19
General .......................................................................................................................20
Underground Service from Overhead......................................................................21
Underground Service from Underground ...............................................................22
Trenching and Backfilling .........................................................................................23
Marker Tape.........................................................................................................23
Underground Utility Duct Separation .....................................................................24
Concurrently Installed ........................................................................................24
iii

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Independently Installed ......................................................................................24
Recessed Conduit in Walls ........................................................................................24
Splice Can...................................................................................................................25
Temporary Service.....................................................................................................25
Transformer Pads.......................................................................................................29
Location ...............................................................................................................29
Customer Responsibilities ..................................................................................29
Clearances Around Padmounts Transformers ..................................................34
Underground Construction......................................................................................36
Handholes and Manholes ...................................................................................36
Retaining Walls....................................................................................................37

Chapter 4: Metering .................................................................................................................41
Introduction...............................................................................................................42
General Information .................................................................................................42
Power Company Responsibilities .......................................................................42
Customer Responsibilities ..................................................................................42
Conditions for Energizing ..................................................................................43
Meter Location ....................................................................................................43
Clearances Around Meters ................................................................................46
Electrical Rooms, Meter Closets, and Other Enclosed Areas ...........................47
Freestanding Meter Enclosure, Pedestal, and Steel-Post Structure ..................52
Freestanding Meter Enclosure ............................................................................53
Free-Standing Meter Pedestal.............................................................................56
Free-Standing Steel-Post Structure ....................................................................58
Meter and Main Service Disconnect Configuration .........................................59
Conductors ..........................................................................................................61
Meter Sockets ......................................................................................................61
Switchboard and Switchgear General Requirements ..............................................62
Bollards ...............................................................................................................63
Replacing an Existing Meter ...............................................................................63
Keep Unmetered Conductors Separate..............................................................64
Sealing of Meters, Metering Equipment ............................................................64
Sub-Metering.......................................................................................................64
Self-Contained Metering (0 to 600 Volts)................................................................64
Residential Service...............................................................................................65
Commercial Service ............................................................................................65
Manual Circuit Closing (MCC) Bypass and HQ Sockets.................................67
Grouped Meter Installations .............................................................................67
Meter Centers ......................................................................................................70
Meter Mounting Heights ....................................................................................74

Metering With Instrument Transformers ................................................................74
Current Transformer-Rated Metering (0 to 600 Volts) ....................................75
Meter Mounting Heights (Up to 600 Volts) ......................................................80
High Voltage Metering (Over 600 Volts) ...........................................................80
Primary Metering on a Power Company Pole...................................................83
Specialized Metering .................................................................................................83
Pulse Metering Output (KYZ Output) ..............................................................83
Remote Interrogation Via Telephone.................................................................84
Totalized Metering – Commercial and Industrial, Primary Voltage ...............85
Customer Generation .........................................................................................86
Service Entrance Grounding and Bonding ..............................................................89

Chapter 5: Other Requirements ..............................................................................................95
Switching and Protection ..........................................................................................97
Service Connection Configurations...................................................................97
Protective and Controlling Equipment – Commercial Service 2 kV to 15 kV....102
Service Connection Configurations – Commercial Service 2 kV to 15 kV .........105
Utility-Owned Switchgear.......................................................................................109
Design and Operating Guidelines....................................................................110
Residential Customer Emergency Generators .......................................................111
Street Lighting .........................................................................................................112
Street Lighting From an Overhead Electrical Source .....................................112
Street Lighting From an Underground Electrical Source ..............................115

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

OTHER

METERING

UNDERGROUND

General Requirements
OVERHEAD

CHAPTER

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

About this book
Electric Service Installation Manual describes requirements for new electric services and
metering. It is published jointly by Hawaiian Electric Company, Maui Electric Company,
and Hawaii Electric Light Company for use by engineers, contractors, home owners,
developers, and architects.

OVERHEAD

The installation of a new electric service is a cooperative effort between the customer
and the power company. The purpose of this manual is to identify the responsibilities of
each party.

General
In this manual, the terms "power company," "electric utility," and "utility" refer to the
same thing – your local electric power company.

UNDERGROUND

Service installations must meet the latest requirements of the power company, the
National Electrical Code (NEC), Electric Utility Service Equipment Requirements
Committee (EUSERC), applicable ordinances of the respective counties, federal and state
laws including those of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the
Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH), and the Public Utilities
Commission General Orders.
Contact the power company early, when requesting electric service.
To request electrical service, contact the applicable company. See Figure 1-1 for contact
information. Be prepared to provide this information:

METERING
OTHER
2

•

Name(s) of the applicant, owners, architect, electrician, and consultant.

•

Mailing address of the applicant.

•

Business address, occupation, and social security number of the applicant.

•

Whether the applicant is the owner, agent, tenant, etc. of premises.

•

Location of the premises. For example: address, tax map key, district,
subdivision, lot number.

•

The date the applicant will be ready for service. For commercial developments,
also dates for construction power, testing, and permanent service.

•

The purpose for the service. Include a description of the equipment, desired
voltage, and load.

•

Rate schedule desired, if an optional rate schedule is available.

•

Required product references:
-

Meter elevation diagram

Single-line diagram

Plot plan, to scale

- Load calculations

GENERAL

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

- Civil and mechanical drawings, if required

•

Required for commercial services:
-

Four copies of the meter equipment drawing showing switchboard, meter
pedestal, switchgear, and the manufacturers’ design drawings of the
switchboard/switchgear in reference to EUSERC drawings.

Meter room location layout.

Building elevations showing power company facilities.

Layout and positioning of meter enclosure (front and rear views),
pedestal or steel post structure.

OVERHEAD

•

Other information as the power company might reasonably require.

One-Call System
Before digging near any utility facilities, call Hawaii’s One-Call Center at 1-866-4237287. For information on Hawaii’s One-Call System, visit www.callbeforeyoudig.org.
Power company representatives are available to provide additional information, interpretation of requirements, or advice with regard to specific projects requiring electric service.

UNDERGROUND

In addition, for large residential customers, subdivision and commercial projects,
complete and submit a Request For Electric Service.

Hawaiian Electric Company
Customer Installations Division
820 Ward Avenue
P.O. Box 2750
Honolulu, Hawaii 96840
Phone: (808)543-7070
Oahu

Hawaii Electric Light Company
Customer Engineering - Kona
74-5519 Kaiwi Street
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
Phone: (808)327-0510

Maui

Hawaii Electric Light Company
Customer Engineering - Hilo
1200 Kilauea Avenue
P.O. Box 1027
Hilo, Hawaii 96720
Phone: (808) 969-0311

Hawaii

OTHER

Maui Electric Company
Lanai
Engineering Department
210 W. Kamehameha Avenue
P.O. Box 398
Kahului, Hawaii 96732
Phone: (808)871-2390

METERING

Molokai

Figure 1-1. Power company service areas.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Tampering
Tampering with power company property is a criminal offense prosecuted under Hawaii
Revised Statutes 269-71, 708-825, 708-826, or 708-827. The judgment may require
payment of triple damages.

Locked Areas
OVERHEAD

Readily accessible, unlocked spaces are strongly preferred, for metering facilities and
other equipment owned by the power company. When metering facilities or other
equipment owned by the power company must be located in vaults, rooms, or other
enclosed areas which are locked by the customer, the requirements described below must
be met:
Areas locked by the customer must be protected by doors or covers, fitted with a
hasp which will accommodate a padlock or cylinder lock which will
accommodate a Best Universal Lock Company cylinder. The power company will
supply and install the padlock or core. If the room containing metering and
related equipment is accessible to both the utility workers and the customer, the
utility will also supply a core or padlock which will accommodate a utility master
key and a customer-owned key, similar to the arrangement for access doors. The
customer-owned key will operate only that lock and will not open other locks
operable by the utility's master key. Doors leading into such areas must be
arranged so as to be readily opened from the inside by any person who may be
inside the area, in accordance with the egress requirements of the latest edition
of the National Fire Protection Association Life Safety Code.

•

In situations similar to the paragraph above, but where two or more
customer/utility master locks may be required, the customer instead supplies an
accessible location for a utility key-box (Supra-S Key Box or equivalent), and a
master key to all access doors along the route to rooms that contain power
company equipment and to doors to rooms containing both customer and utility
equipment. The customer furnishes the key-box, unless otherwise specified by
the power company.

•

If the customer plans to make modifications or additions which would render
the metering facilities or other equipment inaccessible, the customer must
consult with the power company before making such modifications or additions,
and make arrangements satisfactory to the utility for continued access by its
workers.

UNDERGROUND

•

METERING

Easement Areas
OTHER

Construction is not permitted on an easement or access “granted” to the power
company. Because easement dimensions vary, consult with the utility early, if construction is planned near easements.

Two or More Buildings on One Lot

GENERAL

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

If more than two dwellings or buildings are located on the same lot, consult with the
power company to determine acceptable locations for service attachment and metering.
Do this before proceeding with the electrical wiring of the buildings.

General Service Requirements, 2 kV to 15 kV Service
OVERHEAD

This section covers permanent electric service of 5,000 kVA or less, delivered at a
nominal voltage of 2,400 volts or more, but not more than 15,000 volts. See Chapter 5,
Other Requirements, for service connection configurations. Additional requirements for
temporary service are contained in the utility’s tariff. For services greater than 5,000
kVA, consult with your power company for the requirements.

The customer furnishes, installs, and maintains all protective and controlling equipment,
and all necessary transforming equipment, except for instrument transformers used by
the power company for revenue metering. See Closed Transition Switching (see below)
for metering information. The controlling equipment must be readily accessible to and
operable by power company workers at all times. When controlling equipment is in a
locked area, the lock shall conform to requirements indicated under Locked Areas or
Equipment. Customer equipment must not be connected ahead of the utility’s meter.

Drawings

UNDERGROUND

Equipment Furnished by Customer

•

For protective and controlling equipment: the type, size, and ratings for normal
current, load break, interrupting and fault-close, and latch

•

For relays: the style, type, and proposed settings

•

Location and ratio of customer's instrument transformers, potential
transformers

•

Fuse sizes and locations

•

Meter panel layout

METERING

The customer submits four copies of the drawings. Include drawings for protective and
controlling equipment, and the revenue metering compartment and equipment. Include
one-line and schematic diagrams showing:

Incorporate the power company’s comments from the review process before the
drawings are used to manufacture the equipment.

Switchgear Bus
OTHER

When the power company’s service terminates in the customer's switchgear, the bus
between the utility's service termination and the customer's protective equipment must
be fully insulated for 15 kV. The minimum spacing, as measured from the outside

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

surfaces of the cables or bare bus, is not less than 7-1/2 inches between phases, and not
less than 6 inches from phase to ground or to the nearest un-energized surface. The
length of bus between the service termination and the protective equipment must not
exceed 6 feet. The requirement for insulated bus will be waived for services of 100 amps
or less, when it is connected to the utility’s system and fused by the utility.

Instrument Transformers
OVERHEAD

Instrument transformers which are used by the utility for revenue metering, are not
available for use by the customer.

Closed Transition Switching
For customers with two services and circuit breaker protective equipment, the preferred
configuration allows the utility to transfer the customer's load from one service to the
other by closed transition switching, not open transition switching. This prevents the
inconvenience of momentary service interruptions during planned switching by the
utility for maintenance or other purposes. See Chapter 5, Other Requirements, Switching
and Protection, for additional information.

UNDERGROUND

Parallel Operation
When the customer plans to operate generators in parallel with the utility's system, the
customer must apply to the utility for permission, and discuss the requirements for
parallel operation.

Net Metering
If net metering is being considered, contact your local power company to discuss the
requirements.

METERING

HECO contact: Ronald Richmond
Energy Services Department
Customer Efficiency Programs
Hawaiian Electric Company
Telephone: (808)543-4784
MECO contact: Ray Okazaki
Engineering Department
Maui Electric Company
Telephone: (808)871-2340

OTHER

HELCO contact: Laura Rogers
HELCO Engineering Department
Hawaii Electric Light Company
Telephone: (808)327-0519

OTHER

METERING

UNDERGROUND

Overhead Service

OVERHEAD

CHAPTER

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

General
Overhead services will not be supplied to any building or premise in an area where city
and/or county regulations require that services be underground. The customer or
contractor must obtain approvals from the city and/or county prior to energizing
service.

Service Drop
OVERHEAD

The power company will, at its expense, furnish and install a single span of service
conductors from its pole or other aerial support, to the customer’s approved point of
attachment. The utility will connect to the service entrance conductors, provided such
support is of a type acceptable to the utility and complies with all applicable ordinances
and requirements.

Service Drop Attachment

UNDERGROUND

For the location of the service drop attachment, see Figures 2-1, 2-2 and 2-3. Service
drops must be installed at heights and locations such that the service drop conductors
are:
•

Running free of obstruction from trees, structures, poles, masts, antennas, vents,
flood lights, etc.

•

Readily accessible for installation, inspection and maintenance.

•

Installed where the weatherhead and point of attachment are safely accessible.

•

Attached at only one point on the building.

•

Substantially supported at the building.

METERING

For supply conductors of 0 to 750 volts, a lateral and horizontal clearance of at least
3'-0" is required between the supply conductors and nearby buildings, bridges, or other
structures to which the supply conductor is not attached, and on which people might
work (except generating stations and substations). See GO 6.
Supply conductors of 0 to 750 volts must have a vertical clearance of at least 8'-0" above
buildings and bridges (or other structures, which do not ordinarily support conductors
and on which men can walk) whether attached or unattached.

OTHER
8

Service drops must be installed so that they clear fire escapes, exits, windows, doors and
other points at which human contact might be expected, a horizontal distance of at least
3 feet as shown below. See also: General Order 54.8 part 84b.

No service drop
in this space

GENERAL

OVERHEAD SERVICE

3'-0"
min.

OVERHEAD

3'-0"
min.

Outside of building

UNDERGROUND

Figure 2-1. Service drop clearances from windows.
No service drop in this space

8'-0"
minimum

3'-0"
min.

METERING

3'-0"
min.
Outside of
building

OTHER

Figure 2-2. Service drop clearances from doors, balconies, stairways, walkways, etc.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Location of Overhead Services
The preferred service attachment is on the corner of the residence, not more than four
feet in either direction from the corner. The side from which the meter is to be served
shall be designated by the power company.

OVERHEAD

If overhead lines are along the rear property line, the point of attachment for the service
may be located near, or at the rear corner of the residence. The conduit and wiring
necessary to connect the point of attachment to the meter must be provided by the
customer, and installed within four feet from the front corner of the residence.
All service locations are subject to the power company’s approval.
Street, alley, easement, etc.

Pole line

Driveway

UNDERGROUND

Acceptable service attachment
locations. See also minimum
height requirements.

4'-0"
Garage

Preferred service
attachment location

4'-0"
Property line

Property line
Residence

Figure 2-3. Location of overhead residential services.

METERING

Methods of Attaching Service Drops
The power company:
•

Designates the location of the service mast, and the minimum height above
ground for the point of attachment of the service drop.

•

Supplies the insulator and hardware for attaching the service drop at the
customer’s mast.

•

Makes the tap at the service drop conductors.

All conduit, masts, and hardware must be rigid galvanized conduit.
OTHER

Masts, conduit, and other equipment must be grounded and bonded as required by the
latest edition of the NEC.

All structures must be able to safely support workers and equipment required to make
the connections.

GENERAL

OVERHEAD SERVICE

OVERHEAD

6" min. Centerline
of load

22" spacing between
heavy duty pipe straps

6" min.

UNDERGROUND

Exterior installation

Centerline
of load

8" minimum
9 1/2"

Studwall A
CMU wall B

Acceptable encasement for
CMU wall. See detail B

2"x10"
stud

CMU
wall

Concrete
encasement
Mast

2" min.
2" min.

Detail A

Eq.
Eq.

METERING

2" min. concrete encasement all
around each studwall. See detail A

Detail B

Enclosed installation

OTHER

Figure 2-4. External/internal mast attachment. See Figure 2-5 for mast height requirements.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

60° - 90°
Mast

OVERHEAD

Guy attachment, top view
Weatherhead
Pipe clamp with thimble
eye for each guy

18" s
lead
min.

Service drop tap

Guy to be 1/4" stainless steel or galvanized
iron wire. Maximum slope is 1 to 1.
Install guy when mast size and height
are greater than the chart below.

6"
Service drop
Service drop support by utility

UNDERGROUND

Minimum 2" rigid galvanized conduit
without splice above roofing
4'-0" max.

"H"

Waterproofing
1

2" x 4" blocking
between rafters

Flashing and collar

18" min.

One 3/8" eye bolt through blocking for each
guy with thimble eye, nut and washer

Conduit strap as required
Watertight fitting

Note: Other utilities are not permitted to
attach to the service mast.

Meter
Mast Sizes
Meter socket

METERING

Wall

Height "H"
Trade Size

18" - 24"
2" dia.

25" - 48"
3" dia.

Figure 2-5. Alternate methods for attaching service drops using guyed mast installed through
roof.

Service Entrance Conductors
The customer’s service entrance conductors must be long enough to reach the service
drop tap, plus an additional 18 inches for forming a drip loop.

OTHER
12

Swimming Pool Clearances for Utility Service Drop

GENERAL

OVERHEAD SERVICE

Where possible, avoid installing utility service drops above public and private swimming
pools.
The drawings below illustrate the minimum clearances, when utility service drops are
installed above swimming pools. Refer to the latest edition of the NEC for minimum
height requirements.

17' radius

Pool deck

OVERHEAD

Mininimum height clearance

17' radius

25'

UNDERGROUND

Highest water level

Edge of pool
Diving board or platform

25' minimum
height clearance

17' minimum
height clearance

METERING

Pool deck

Highest water level

OTHER

Figure 2-6. Swimming pool clearances for utility service drops.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Pole

Customer's service
entrance conductors

OVERHEAD

Residential
premise

Clearance above other
structure on premise.
See Note 3.
Property line.

10' min.

Attachment at building
See Note 1.
Private driveways or
areas accessible to
vehicles. See Note 2.

12' min.

drop
service
ly
p
p
u
s
t
l
0 - 300 vo

16' min.

18' min.

12' min.

Edge of curb or
proposed curb.
See Note 4.

Center line of public
road or highway

UNDERGROUND

Notes:
1. The point of attachment of service drop conductors to a building, above areas or sidewalks accessible
only to pedestrians, shall not be less than 10 feet. Refer to General Order (GO) 6, Rule 54.8B(2) and
National Electric Code (NEC) 230-24(b), for further clarification.
2. The minimum vertical clearance above private driveways or areas accessible to vehicles, for residential
purposes only, shall not be less than 12 feet. Refer to GO 6, Rule 54.8b(2) and NEC 230-24(b), for further
clarification.
3. The minimum vertical clearance above structures, which do not ordinarily support conductors and on
which men can walk whether attached or unattached, shall be 8 feet. Refer to GO 6, Rule 54.8 Service
Drops, 0-750 Volts, for specific conditions under which minimum clearances may be modified.
4. Service drop conductors shall have a vertical clearance of not less than 18 feet above public thoroughfares, except that this clearance may grade (slope) from 18 feet, at a position not more than 12 feet
horizontally from the curb line, to a clearance of not less than 16 feet at the curb line. Refer to GO 6,
Rule 54.8B(1), for futher clarification.
5. The radial clearance between supply service drop conductors and communication service drop conductors
shall not be less than 24 inches. Where within 15 feet of the point of attachment of either service drop,
this clearance may be reduced to 12 inches. Refer to GO 6, Rule 54.8C(4), Clearance Between Supply
Service Drops and Other Conductors.

METERING

Figure 2-7. Service drop clearances, residential premises.

OTHER
14

Pole

ice dro
ply serv
p
u
s
t
l
o
v
0 - 750

16' min.
12' min.

18' min.

16' min.

Area accessible to
pedestrian only

OVERHEAD

Commercial
industrial
premises

Property line

12' min.

Edge of curb or
proposed curb

Private driveways or
areas open to vehicular traffic

Center line of public
road or highway

Notes:
1. The radial clearance between supply service drop conductors and communication service drop conductors
shall be not less than 24 inches. Where within 15 feet of the point of attachment of either service drop,
this clearance may be reduced to 12 inches.
2. The minimum vertical clearance above bridges, fences, walls or other structures upon which people can
walk, is 8 feet. For vertical clearance above buildings, See Rule 54.8B3 GO 6.

Figure 2-8. Service drop clearances, commercial premises.

Temporary Service

UNDERGROUND

Customer's service
entrance conductors

GENERAL

OVERHEAD SERVICE

All timbers may be rough. Attach braces to the stand, and secure the stand with bolts or
nails. Attach the wood brace at a point two-thirds of the height of the stand, above
ground. All materials must be for outdoor use. Buried portions of stand and stake(s)
must be treated and tamped. All facilities must meet NEC requirements.

OTHER

For pole heights over 15 feet, consult with the utility’s engineering department.

METERING

The customer furnishes a sturdy stand per power company standards, and locates it
where specified by the power company. If the stand is to be in service for longer than
one year, consult with the utility for additional requirements.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

1/ " x 6" eye bolt with
2
round washer and nut.
Eye to point in direction
of service drop.

Service weatherhead

4" x 4" x 16' min. treated timber

OVERHEAD

Customer's service entrance
conductors. 18" min. length
and neutral identified.
Service entrance cable

2" x 4" x 16' min. timber brace
attach 2/3 distance up temp. pole

Staple supports
Approved meter socket
(weatherproof type)
3/ " plywood
4
mounting board

Ground wire
#6 SDBC

Ground
clamp

Weatherproof GFCI
outlet(s) with cover(s)

2" x 4" x 12' timber
back support brace

18"
min.

UNDERGROUND

2" x 4" timber
cross member brace

5/ " x 8' ground rod
8

Note: All members must be one piece.
No splicing of timbers.

METERING

Soil areas: 2" x 4" wooden stake (driven into ground 2 ft. min.)
Rocky areas: Metal concrete form pegs
Note: Customer's connection to ground must be 25 ohms or less. If the
ground connection is greater than 25 ohms, the customer is required
to install a second ground rod in accordance with NEC 250.56.

Figure 2-9a. Temporary overhead service stand, isometric view.

OTHER
16

2" x 4" cross brace
Service drop conductor

GENERAL

OVERHEAD SERVICE

2" x 4" back support brace

Direction of pulling load

2" x 4" brace

Metal concrete
form pegs (typical)

OVERHEAD

Meter socket
Top View

Eye bolt
Service drop conductor
4" min.

Residential and commercial
minimum height 12'-0";
maximum height 14'-0"

2" x 4" brace attached
2/3 distance up temp. pole

Meter socket
45°

2" x 4"
cross brace

Metal concrete
form pegs (typical)
Back support
brace

Ground
clamp

Ground line

METERING

18"
min.

5'-0" min.
6'-0" max.
5'-6" preferred

UNDERGROUND

2'-0" max., 6" min. from eyebolt
to top of weatherhead.

5/8" x 8' ground rod

Side View

OTHER

Figure 2-9b. Temporary overhead service stand, top and side views.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

OVERHEAD

UNDERGROUND

METERING

OTHER

GENERAL

UNDERGROUND SERVICE

CHAPTER

OVERHEAD

OTHER

METERING

UNDERGROUND

Underground Service

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

General
The customer (or the customer’s contractor) is responsible for contacting the power
company prior to commencement of construction. The utility will determine the
appropriate design for the underground service. The company also inspects all trenching
prior to the burial/covering of conduits.

OVERHEAD

If the customer requests underground service, or if the city or county requires
underground service by ordinance, service may be provided by the installation of an
underground riser to an existing pole or from an existing underground distribution
system. The customer is required to provide and install all conduits, handholes, or
pullboxes, trenching, and backfill. Consult the power company prior to construction, for
a cost estimate and other requirements.
City and county inspection and approval will be required, prior to the installation of the
underground service by the power company.

UNDERGROUND

For long service runs, or runs with many bends, the customer may be required to install
a pull box or handhole. A maximum of two 90 degree bends is allowed on conduits,
between the property line and the meter socket. For conduit runs involving two 90
degree bends or more, contact the power company for specifications.
Conduits for service conductors must be Schedule 40 PVC, direct-buried at a depth of at
least 18 inches. Conduits under driveways must be Schedule 40 PVC encased in concrete
and buried at a depth of at least 18 inches, or Schedule 80 PVC direct-buried at a depth
of at least 24 inches. Conduits in easements must be Schedule 40 PVC concrete encased.
The minimum radius bend for 2-inch conduits is 18 inches. The minimum radius bend
for 3-inch conduits is 24 inches.
All ducts in a single uninterrupted run shall be of the same schedule PVC –
transitioning of different schedules is not allowed.
The trench must be at least 8 inches wide for 2-inch conduit, and at least 9 inches wide
for 3-inch conduit.

METERING

Use care when excavating near the service stub – the service line is energized. Contact
the power company if you are unable to locate the conductor stubs.
The customer may be required to install a pad for a padmount transformer within his
property, if the service run is too long to be served by the secondary system, or if
required due to load.

OTHER
20

Underground Service from Overhead

GENERAL

UNDERGROUND SERVICE

Customer's termination facilities
Meter socket by customer
The customer installs, and leaves
in place, a pulling line in each
conduit.
Customer to stub-up one length of conduit up the pole

Point of service
entrance connection

Pole

Property line

18" min. radius bend for 2" PVC
24" min. radius bend for 3" PVC

6" min.

Splice can by customer
(if required)

OVERHEAD

Customer's conductors
(if required)

Street

Conduit by customer

18" min.
cover (top of

UNDERGROUND

Pullbox
(when required)

Concrete encasement required 3'
in each direction from pullbox

OTHER

METERING

Figure 3-1. Underground service from overhead distribution.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Underground Service from Underground
Property line

Transformer pad

Street

OVERHEAD

Handhole

Figure 3-2. Underground service from underground distribution.

Type A backfill is beach sand, earth, or earth and gravel. If earth and gravel, the
maximum rock size is 1 inch, and the mixture contain not more than 50% rock particles
by volume.
UNDERGROUND

Type B backfill is beach sand, earth, or earth and gravel. If the earth and gravel, the
mixture must pass through a one-half inch mesh screen and contain not more than 20%
by volume of rock particles.
If the normal material in the bottom of the trench is not Type B, an additional 3 inches
must be excavated and Type B backfill added.

METERING
OTHER
22

Trenching and Backfilling
Final grade or top of driveway

Final grade

18" min.

GENERAL

UNDERGROUND SERVICE

Marker tape

18" min.
12"

OVERHEAD

Pulling line

3"
Concrete encasement

Duct is Schedule 40 PVC. The duct is encased in a
3-inch minimum concrete envelope.
(Driveways, commercial, easements)
Residential Driveways, Commercial, Easements

Type B backfill
3"
3"
Duct is Schedule 40 PVC.
Residential driveways Schedule 80 PVC
Residential, Residential Driveways

Final grade

Marker tape
12"

Final grade

Marker tape

18" min.
24" min.

12"
Concrete encasement

3"
8"
3"

Pulling line
Type B backfill

Duct is Schedule 80 PVC, with Type B backfill. If the material
in the trench has rock 1-inch or greater and more than 20%
rock by volume of rocks, excavate an additional 3-inches,
and backfill with Type B backfill.
Public Rights of Way

UNDERGROUND

Pulling line

3"
3"

11/2" 3"

Commercial installation. Ducts are Schedule 40 PVC
and encased in concrete as shown. Check with utility
for state requirements.
Easements, Commercial

METERING

Figure 3-3. Trenching and backfilling.

Marker Tape

OTHER

Electrical warning marker tape is required above all direct-buried conduits, and for
concrete-encased conduits in the state highway right-of-way. Place market tape 12 inches
above backfill or encasements. Market tape must conform to HECO specification
M0302.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Underground Utility Duct Separation
Concurrently Installed
When concurrently installed, ducts installed parallel to gas, water, oil, other pipe systems,
or other foreign substructures, must be separated by at least 12 inches from any of those
items. Ducts installed crossing, must be separated by at least 6 inches.

OVERHEAD

Independently Installed
When independently installed, ducts for supply conductors must be separated from
communication ducts and buried cables or conductors by at least of 3 inches of
concrete, or at least 4 inches of brick masonry, or at least 12 inches of earth.

Recessed Conduit in Walls
Consult with the power company, before installing conduit in walls.

UNDERGROUND

Conduit for conductors is Schedule 40 PVC, encased in concrete, and installed from the
meter socket or pullbox, down the wall and into trench with a bend. The minimum
radius bend is 18 inches.
The conduit must be 2-inch Schedule 40 PVC when the service conductors are no larger
than #2 AL. See Figure 3-4 for details.
When the size of the service conductors is 3/0 or 350 MCM, the conduit size must be 3
inches, unless otherwise specified by the utility. The requirement for 2 inches concrete
encasement is maintained.
2"

Mudsill

Exterior surfacing

Floor

METERING

Final grade
Footing
See Figure 3-3

Bottom of trench

OTHER

Figure 3-4. Recessed conduit in a wall.

3" Base

Size of Conduit
(min.)

Size of Service Cable
(min.)

Size of Service Cable
(max.)

Size of Splice Can

#2 AL

#1/0

10"W × 12"H × 6"D

#3/0 AL

#4/0

12"W × 18"H × 8"D

#350 MCM AL

#350 MCM CU

18"W × 24"H × 10"D

#3/0 Quad

#350 Quad

24"W × 30"H × 12"D

#500 MCM AL

#500 MCM CU

24"W × 30"H × 12"D

UNDERGROUND

If the size of the service is greater than 100 amps, a splice can, as specified by the power
company, must be installed ahead of the meter socket. The conductors must terminate
in the splice can, with 18 inches extra for splicing. Mount splice cans not less than 6
inches, nor more than 3 feet from the finished grade to the bottom of the splice can. The
splice can must have provisions for seals which will be installed by the power company.
If more than one conductor per phase is required, contact the power company for splice
can sizes.

GENERAL

Splice Can

OVERHEAD

UNDERGROUND SERVICE

Table 3-1. Splice can size requirements.

Connect a duct to the meter socket or splice can (if required) using a Schedule 40 PVC
conduit bend and Schedule 40 PVC conduit.

Temporary Service

OTHER

METERING

The customer furnishes a sturdy stand, per power company standards, and locates it
where specified by the power company. If the stand is to be in service for longer than
one year, consult with the utility for additional requirements.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

24" W x 30" H (min.)
3/4" plyboard
Meter socket should not be
attached (screwed) to the
stand from within the interior
of the enclosure.

Future wall

OVERHEAD

Waterproof GFCI
outlet(s) with
cover(s)

Meter can

45°

Splice can
if required

UNDERGROUND

Preferred meter height is 5-6"
5' min.
6' max.

Conduit

Existing building footing
Ground line

METERING

Figure 3-5. Temporary / permanent service stand, isometric view.

OTHER
26

GENERAL

UNDERGROUND SERVICE

Road right-of-way
2" x 4" timbers (min)
5'-0" max
Conduit

5'-0" max
3'-6"

Property line

OVERHEAD

Company service tails or
stubouts (consult company)

Top View
Underground meter socket, rain tight outlets,
and circuit breakers by customer
Meter socket

5'- 0" min.
6'- 0" max.
5'-6" preferred

Single 4" x 4" timber (min)
(one piece, no splice)
Attach braces to pole and
stakes to assure stability at
a point two-thirds the height
of the pole.

5'-0" max
Property line

Weatherproof
GFCI outlet(s)
with cover(s)

18" min.

Soil areas:
2" x 4" wooden stake
or forming stake
(driven into ground 2 ft. min.)
Rocky areas:
Metal concrete form pegs
Side View

To power company
point of connection
18" min.
Ground rod
by customer

Notes:
1. Consult with the utility’s customer engineering division when connecting to service box.
2. Customer shall furnish a sturdy pole and locate it as specified by company. Pole to be in service for one
year or less. Customer shall consult the utility if the pole is to be in service over one year. All timbers
may be rough.
3. Braces shall be attached to pole stakes with bolts or nails in such a way as to assure stability. Attach
wood brace at a point 2/3 the height of the pole above ground. Buried portions of pole stake(s) shall be
treated and tamped.
4. Customer does all necessary trenching and backfilling.
5. Customer locates and exposes (18" min.) company's service tails. Due caution should be taken while
excavating, as company's cables are energized.
6. Customer to install a 13” x 24” (minimum) pullbox for the company to splice in.
7. No splicing of timber.
8. In rocky areas, iron form pins may be used in lieu of 18" minimum bury.
9. Electrical facilities shall be installed per NEC.
10. All materials for outdoor application.
11. Meter must face road or driveway.

Figure 3-6. Temporary service stand.
27

METERING

Tamp pole
in solidly

Ground per NEC
article 250

45°

OTHER

Ground
line

UNDERGROUND

Conduit

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Pool deck

Highest water level
Conduit

OVERHEAD

Inside face
of pool

5'-0"

Figure 3-7. Underground service clearances for swimming pools.

UNDERGROUND

3'- 0" min.
Meter socket enclosure

Electric and gas meters
must not be installed
in the same enclosure

Building corner
Centerline of gas pipe at
wall penetration
Gas meter

5'- 0" min.
6'- 0" max.

METERING

Sidewalk
Finish grade

Provide 6" min. clear separation
in all directions between gas and
electric lines (typical)

Requirements per GO 10 must be met.

Figure 3-8. Clearances between residential electric and gas meters.

OTHER
28

12" min.
(lateral)

Transformer Pads

GENERAL

UNDERGROUND SERVICE

Location
No permanent or temporary structure or object may be erected or placed within
2’-0" for single-phase, and 4’-0” for three-phase, of the edge of the concrete pad,
or within 8’-0" in front (10’-0” for 25 kV equipment).

•

When the concrete pad is located in the vicinity of existing or future combustible
material or combustible buildings, the customer must provide safeguards as
outlined in the NEC, subject to the approval of the city and building inspector.

•

The front side of the concrete pad must face vehicular access, and be free of
obstruction at all times.

•

When parts of building structures are located directly over the concrete pad, a
minimum clearance of 9’-0" from the surface of the pad is required.

•

The customer must provide and install adequate protection for transformers.
Consult with power company for type and location.
UNDERGROUND

•

OVERHEAD

Requirements for the location of pads for transformers and other equipment include:

Customer Responsibilities
The customer is responsible to:
Furnish materials and construct the facilities for the padmount transformer
including the concrete pad, primary and secondary ducts, and anchor bolts.
When required, the concrete curb and rock fill around the pad must be
furnished and installed by the customer.

•

Install the duct from the pad to the riser pole or handhole as designated on the
plan. The duct is PVC Schedule 40 pipe. Bends due to changes of grade, must
have a minimum radius of 20’-0". After the conduits are installed, the customer
must pass a smooth bullet-shaped wooden test mandrel through the entire
length of each conduit to test for freedom from burrs and obstructions. All ducts
must contain a muletape pull line, Wesco catalog #0728-9200 or equivalent. Use
select backfill.

•

Grade sufficiently around the pad site to prevent future filling in of the pad. When
required, construct a retaining wall of suitable material to prevent future filling of pad.

•

Compact by rolling the site in accordance with city and county specifications for
compacting sidewalk areas.

METERING

•

Allow 5 working days advance notice, for inspections by the power company.
•

24-hour access to the transformer without passing through locked areas.

•

A minimum of 10’-0" wide vehicular access to the transformer.

OTHER

The power company must have:

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

6'-0"
2'-6"

3'-6"

10"

1'-4"

3'-4"

11/2"
11/2"

1'-10"

5" 71/2" 1'-0"

71/2" 5"

2'-0" minimum clear
space in back and sides

11/2"

#3 bars, all reinforcement

10"

OVERHEAD

2-#3 x 1'-9" diagonal

10"
7'-0"

5/8" x 8'-0" copper ground rod

4'-2"

10"
1'-0"

5"
11/2"
1'-6"

UNDERGROUND

Secondary
ducts

6"
11"

1'-6"

2-#3 x 1'-4" diagonal

11"

Front

Property line

Primary ducts

Centerline
Sidewalk area
Top View
Ground rod

5/8" galvanized anchor bolt

13/4"
6"

METERING

21/4"
Rock sand
(screen #4 crushed rock)
by customer
Secondary duct
2" - 4"

3/8" radius all around

11/2"

Tamped soil

Final grade

1'-6" min.

Primary duct
Side View

OTHER

Notes:
1. Grade and compact the pad site so that the higher front corner matches the concrete sidewalk grade.
The lot shall have a slope not greater than 1/2" per foot toward the sidewalk.
2. Grade sufficiently around the lot site to prevent future filling in of the lot. When required, the customer
shall construct a retaining wall of suitable material to prevent future filling in of the lot.
3. Compact by rolling the lot site in accordance with C&C of Honolulu standard specifications for
compacting sidewalk areas.
4. Excavate a trench 4'-0" wide and 2'-0" deep from main trench to pad site. Trench shall be backfilled by
customer after HECO installs cables.
5. Excavate an area 3'-8" x 2" deep after lot is compacted. This area shall be filled with #4 lava rock.
6. Furnish and install precast concrete pad after HECO installs cable.
7. Refer to HECO material drawing 011249 for details of concrete pad.
8. Sloping terrain from back and sides of pad may begin from easement.

Figure 3-9. Concrete pad for a single-phase padmount residential transformer.
30

7'-4"
2'-6"

3'-6"

2'-0"

11/2"
11/2"

2'-0"

5" 71/2" 1'-0"

71/2" 5"

2'-0" minimum clear
space in back and sides

11/2"

#3 bars, all reinforcement

10"

Easement

2-#3 x 1'-9" diagonal

10"

5/8" x 8'-0" copper ground rod

4'-2"

10"
1'-0"

5"
11/2"
1'-6"
8'-0"

Secondary
ducts

6"
11"

1'-6"

2-#3 x 1'-4" diagonal

11"

Property line

Primary ducts

Front

Centerline
8'-0" minimum clear space in front of concrete pad
Sidewalk area
Top View

11/2"
6"

3/8" radius all around

Ground rod
13/4"

21/4"

Rock sand
(screen #4 crushed rock)
by customer
Secondary duct

Tamped soil

Final grade

1'-6" min.

METERING

5/8" galvanized anchor bolt

OVERHEAD

2'-0"

3'-4"

UNDERGROUND

2'-0" minimum clear
space in back and sides

GENERAL

UNDERGROUND SERVICE

Primary duct

OTHER

Notes:
1. Compressive strength of concrete shall be 3,000 PSI at 28 days.
2. Top of pad shall be smooth, true, level and other exposed surfaces shall be smooth and free from
defects.
3. Concrete shall be cured by approved method (ASTM A15).
4. Reinforcing bars shall be clean deformed bars.
5. All items shall be furnished in place complete by customer.
6. HECO easement as marked for each transformer.
7. Typical installation. Refer to plot plan, primary and secondary one line diagram, and duct encasement
details for duct requirements.

Figure 3-10. Concrete pad for a single-phase padmount commercial transformer.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Edge of required clearance.
See Note 7.

8'-0"
2-4" conduits
(3'-0" radius bends)

OVERHEAD

7'-6"

Customer to
terminate
secondary
ducts in this area

1'-6"
1'-3"

1'-0"

2'-3"

1'-71/2"

2'-6"

1'-9"
1'-9"

1'-6"

UNDERGROUND

71/2"

5/8" x 10'-0"ground

rod furnished by
and installed
by contractor
(see Note 3)

Front Plan
Cut down PVC prior
to concrete placement
#4@8" O/C
Final grade

2'-6"

11/2" CL.

71/2" 1'-71/2"
1'-6"

1'-9"
6"

1'-6"

#4@8" O/C
2"CL.
2"

10"
Two 4" primary
conduits encased in
3" concrete jacket

4"
4"

See Note 4
#4 cont.

#4@9"
O/C

#4@9" O/C
Section A-A

Secondary conduits as per
specific project requirement

METERING

Notes:
1. Refer to std. 30-5000 for locations and clearances.
2. Refer to std. 22-2005 for 3 phase padmounted transformer requirements.
3. 5/8" diameter x 10'-0" ground rod (stock code 193457) furnished by utility and installed by customer. If
ground resistance is more than 25 ohms, install additional 5/8" diameter x 8'-0" ground rod (stock code
101527) and connect 4/0 bare copper ground wire between ground rods. A minimum of 6'-0" shall be
maintained between the driven ground rods. A second ground rod will probably be required when soil
resistivity is greater than 67 ohm-meters.
4. Concrete: 3000 PSI compressive strength in 28 days. Moisture cure concrete pad a minimum of 7 days. Do
not install transformer until concrete compressive strength reaches 1,500 PSI minimum or after 14 days.
5. Reinforcing: ASTM A615, Grade 40 minimum.
6. Locate, secure, and cap all conduits before pouring pad. Top of concrete to be smooth and true, wood-float
finish, free of defects, as per city and county specifications. Round all exposed edges to 3/4" chamfer.
7. Maintain a relatively level, minimum clearance of 2'-6" from the sides of the pad, 2'-0 from the back of
pad, and 8'-0" in front of pad. Extend concrete pad an additional 8'-0" in front if located in planting area.

OTHER

Figure 3-11. Concrete pad for a 75-300 kVA three-phase padmount transformer.
32

8'-6"

Primary conduits
(2-4), encased in 3"
concrete jacket
8'-6"

Customer to terminate secondary
conduits in this area. Secondary
conduits per specific project
requirements.

Concrete pad
(refer to notes)

1'-3"
max.

1'-0"

OVERHEAD

Additional 5/8" x 8'-0"
ground rod top of rod
12" below final grade
(see note 3)

GENERAL

UNDERGROUND SERVICE

1'-6"
2'-0"

2'-0"

5/8" x 10'-0" grd. rod furnished by HECO

Maintain an 8'-0" clearance
from front. (see note 7)

and installed by contractor (see note 3)

Final
Grade

1'-9"

maximum
1'-6"

11/2" CL.
10"

71/2" 1'-91/2"

1'-7"
#4@9"
O/C EW

2"CL.

3/4" Chamfer

6"
#4@9"
O/C EW

2"
#4 cont.

Secondary conduits as per
specific project requirement

2-4" Primary conduits encased
in 3" concrete jacket

Section "A-A"

Figure 3-12. Concrete pad for a 500-750 kVA three-phase padmount transformer.
33

METERING

2'-9"

OTHER

Cut down PVC prior
to concrete placement

UNDERGROUND

Plan View

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Clearances Around Padmount Transformers
Consult with the power company’s engineering department prior to installation of
transformer pad. Required minimum clearances include:

OVERHEAD

•

8’-0" front clearance, for hot stick operation. Power company handholes and
manholes may be installed within this 8’-0" clearance.

•

The slope of a grade in front of the pad must not exceed 1/4" rise to 1’-0" run.
Keep the slope at a flat grade.

•

Sloping terrain may begin no closer than 2’-0" from the end of the transformer
pad, and from the same elevation as the flat grades.

•

Sloping terrain is restricted to a 1’-0" rise per 2’-0" run, or flatter.

•

The maximum height of sloping terrain is 7’-6".
Padmounted
transformer

8'
(10"-0" for 25 kV equip.)

UNDERGROUND

Sidewalk

Padmounted
transformer

Street

8'
(10"-0" for 25 kV equip.)

Sidewalk

Street

METERING
Padmounted
transformer

8'
(10"-0" for 25 kV equip.)

Sidewalk

OTHER

Figure 3-13a. Clearances around padmount equipment.

Street

Padmounted
transformer
2'

GENERAL

UNDERGROUND SERVICE

8'
(see note 3)

OVERHEAD

Note 1

Padmounted
transformer
2'-0"

Padmounted
transformer

1'
2'

Note 1

8'
(see note 3)

2'-0"
Note 2

UNDERGROUND

8'
(see note 3)

1/4"

Street slope may vary

Notes:
1. Sloping terrain may begin 2'-0" from the end of the transformer pad and from the same
elevation and is restricted to a 1'-0" rise to a 2'-0" run. Maximum of height of sloping terrain
shall be 7'-6".
2. In front of transformer pad, the slope may not exceed a 1'-0" horizontal run to 1/4" vertical rise.
3. 10'-0" for 25 kV equipment.

OTHER

METERING

Figure 3-13b. Clearances around padmounted equipment.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Underground Construction
Handholes and Manholes
Size, Type

Drawing
Number

Description

OVERHEAD
UNDERGROUND
METERING

13” x 24” handhole

30-2006

Non-concrete service box

17” x 30” handhole

30-2006

Non-concrete service box

24” x 36” handhole

30-2006

Non-concrete service box

2’ x 4’ handhole

30-2005

Precast concrete handhole

3' x 5' handhole

16949

Non-vehicular rated extension for Type 35 handhole

3' x 5' handhole, precast

15501

Non-vehicular rated and areas where normal water level is more
than 2'-6" below surface grade

3' x 5' handhole, type 35V

18841

Non-vehicular rated and areas where normal water level is less
than 2'-6" below surface grade

3' x 5" handhole

HE Spec. M7901

Non-vehicular rated and areas where normal water level is less
than 2'-6" below surface grade

4' x 6' handhole, type 46M,
5' x 7' handhole , type 57M

16687

Non-standard, traffic rated

4' x 6' handhole

18842

Non-vehicular rated

4' x 6' handhole, type 46V

18847

Light vehicular rated

4' x 6' manhole, precast

26919

Traffic rated

4' x 6' handhole, 5' x 8'
manhole, 6' x 11' manhole

26922

Non-vehicular rated handhole, pre-cast top slab

4' x 6' handhole, 5' x 8'
manhole, 6' x 11' manhole

26923

Light traffic rated, handhole and manhole pre-cast components

5' x 7' handhole, type 57

18843

Non-vehicular rated

5' x 7' handhole, type 57V

18848

Light vehicular rated

5' x 8' manhole, precast

26920

Traffic rated, 6' x 9' outside dimensions

6' x 11' handhole, type 611

18844

Non-vehicular rated

6' x 11' handhole, type 611V

18849

Light vehicular rated

6' x 11' manhole, precast

26921

Traffic rated, 6" wall

6' x 14' manhole

71133

Structural plans, traffic rated

6' x 14' manhole, type 614

71467

Structural plans, traffic rated, 25 kV, 46 kV, 69 kV applications

6' x 11' manhole, type 614V

71468

Traffic rated

7' x 9' manhole, type No. 2

18776

Traffic rated

7' x 16' manhole, type No. 4

15588

Traffic rated

Miscellaneous details

16688

Handholes, manholes, non-vehicular rated and traffic rated.
Pulling irons, duct entry covers and neck.

OTHER

Table 3-2. Handhole and manhole equipment.

Retaining Walls

GENERAL

UNDERGROUND SERVICE

The concrete area must be at least 3-1/2" thick. For drainage, slope the concrete
toward the front or sidewalk. Gravel may be used instead of concrete.

•

Retaining walls, fences, and foundations are installed by the customer, and are
outside the easement area.

•

Retaining walls must be of sufficient height to protect the equipment from
erosion and run-off of dirt and water. A drainage swale behind the wall must be
installed to divert water around the equipment.

•

Retaining walls must meet state and city codes and requirements for retaining
walls. (Must be submitted for utility company review.)

•

For walls taller than 24" high, acceptable protection such as a fence must be
installed at the top of the wall to prevent falls. Alternatively, the wall can be
extended to a sufficient height to prevent falls.

•

Weep holes, if required, must not drain in the area occupied by power company
equipment.

Concrete or
gravel area

x
Easement line
7'-0"

1'-4"

Single phase
transformer pad
9'-0.9"

x
10"

1'-6"

7'-3.12"
13'-0.816"

Easement line
For illustration purposes only.
Actual retaining wall designed
and built by customer.

METERING

UNDERGROUND

•

OVERHEAD

When pads cut into hillsides, these requirements apply:

1'-10"

Property line

OTHER

Figure 3-14. Retaining walls near electrical equipment.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Fencing material

OVERHEAD
S
W
A
L
E

UNDERGROUND

Figure 3-15. Retaining wall with fencing material.

METERING
OTHER
38

For illustration purposes only.
Actual retaining wall designed
and built by customer.

GENERAL

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Perforated PVC pipe
1'-4"

Easement line

OVERHEAD

Concrete or
gravel area

Single-phase
transformer pad

7'-0"
Easement
line

8'-4"

1'-6"

10"

For illustration purposes
only. Actual retaining wall
designed and built by
customer.

6'-8"
12'-0"

1'-10"

UNDERGROUND

Property line

For illustration purposes only.
Actual retaining wall designed
and built by customer.
2' square #3 fine gravel
wrapped with geotextile fabric
(Amoco 4545 or equal)

METERING

4" perforated PVC drain
pipe slope to daylight
above sidewalk

Figure 3-16. Retaining wall with drainage protection when weep holes are required.

OTHER

Figures 3-14, 3-15, and 3-16 show a single-phase padmount transformer. The same slope
and wall requirements apply to other equipment such as three-phase padmount
transformers and switchgear. For all applications, the slopes and walls are outside the
designated clear zones for the equipment installed.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

OVERHEAD

UNDERGROUND

METERING

OTHER

METERING

UNDERGROUND

Metering

OVERHEAD

CHAPTER

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Introduction
This chapter describes the installation of the meter itself. In addition to these requirements, meter installations must conform to NEC requirements, and to local regulations.
This chapter has the following subsections:

OVERHEAD

•

General information which applies to all meter installations.

•

Self-contained metering for single-phase residential services of 320 continuous amps
and less, and all three-phase and commercial services of 200 amps or less.

•

Instrument transformer metering for residential single-phase services over 320
continuous amperes, three-phase and commercial services over 200 amps, and
for all services over 600 volts.

General Information
Power Company Responsibilities
UNDERGROUND

The power company provides, installs, owns, and maintains its meters, instrument
transformers, test switches, and other metering accessories.

Customer Responsibilities
The customer provides, installs, and maintains the following for company meters:
•

Meter sockets, including plastic covers for open sockets

•

Conduits and raceways, connectors and lugs, and wiring (except wiring for
instrument transformer metering which is supplied by the power company)

•

Splice cans

•

Protective equipment, including main breakers and switches

And where applicable:
METERING
OTHER
42

•

Meter enclosures

•

Instrument transformer enclosures with transformer mounting brackets

•

Meter centers

•

Switchboards/switchgears

•

Submit four sets of the manufacturer’s switchgear drawings to the power
company for approval before equipment fabrication or construction. Include the
electrical service one-line diagram, elevation of metering equipment, plot plan of
location of metering equipment, and manufacturer’s design drawings of
switchgear in reference with applicable EUSERC drawings. One set of drawings
will be returned to the sender with approval or required corrections. Submit the
drawings well in advance. The power company requires 3 months to review,
plan, and order metering equipment for primary service.

Labels

GENERAL

METERING

The customer provides a permanent label at each meter socket, and at the main service
disconnect, to identify the space served. For example: Identify the number of the
apartment, suite, or unit. The name of the customer may be on the label, but is not
required. In addition, the street address is required if the meter installation serves more
than one street address.
OVERHEAD

Acceptable labels include engraved laminated phenolic (or equivalent) nameplates, or
adhesive-type labels with 3/8-inch minimum block lettering. Felt-tip pens and labelmaker tapes are not permanent markings. Labels must be installed before service is
connected. Thereafter, keep labels current, legible, and accurate.

Conditions for Energizing
•

The customer’s metering equipment is installed and approved by the power
company.

•

The customer’s main service breaker or switch is installed.

•

The local inspection authority has approved the installation. Typically, the local
authority is the city or county building department.

•

For certain situations, the company may require that the customer’s contractor
be present at the time of energization.

UNDERGROUND

A meter will be installed and the service energized when:

Meter Location

The metering location must be free from obstructions, abnormal temperatures, corrosive
atmospheres, and vibrations.
All meters, metering equipment and enclosures must be readily accessible at all times
(24 hours) by power company personnel for emergencies, meter reading, inspection,
testing, and maintenance in accordance with the tariff.

METERING

Metering equipment is installed at a convenient location on the customer’s premises
which is approved by the power company. If multiple meters are installed, all meters are
installed at one central location.

Locating Residential Meters

OTHER

Meter sockets for residential services are located within 4 feet of a corner of the
residence or building nearest the street. The preferred corner is at the front of the
residence, outside the garage, on the side wall.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Residence
Property line

OVERHEAD

Preferred meter location

Property line

Acceptable meter
locations.

Garage

Driveway

Street, alley, easement, etc.

Figure 4-1. Locations for residential meters.

UNDERGROUND

Meter Locations for Commercial and Industrial Services
Locate metering on ground level unless approved by the utility. Because of the variations
in commercial and industrial facilities, the power company must approve the meter
location for these services. Submit a one-line diagram, plan view, and meter elevation
drawings for approval. On the plan view and elevation drawings, indicate all equipment
or structures near the metering equipment.

Unacceptable Meter Locations

METERING
OTHER
44

•

Locations not readily accessible such as inside garage walls, carports, breezeways,
or areas that may be enclosed. If renovations are made to a carport, garage, patio,
or a similar structure that will enclose metering equipment, the customer must
relocate the metering equipment to an accessible location.

•

On doors, windows, or around doors or window openings. Allow a clearance of
not less than 6 inches between the meter can and any door, doorway, or window
opening, or the width of a swinging door or window.

•

In an elevator shaft or hatchway.

•

In a stairwell.

•

In an attic or area not in general use.

•

In a restroom, bath, shower, powder, or toilet room.

•

Near moving or rotating machinery.

•

Near any high-voltage compartment, switchboard or other bare or exposed live
parts, unless the meter is at least 5 feet from such parts and is effectively screened
or separated by a barrier from those parts.

•

Enclosed areas used for trash chutes, storage, or janitorial rooms.

•

Where the meter protrusion could obstruct and create a hazard to pedestrian
and/or vehicular traffic.

•

GENERAL

METERING

Where noise levels exceed 85 decibels. See Hawaii OSHA regulation 12-200-9,

Where excessive moisture, abnormal temperature, vibration, fumes, dust, salt
spray, corrosive atmosphere or similar deteriorating agents are present.

•

Near gas lines/equipment, maintain required clearances.

•

In an area protected by alarm systems, security gates or doors, guard dogs, etc.,
unless approved by the power company.

•

On any portion of a building where future landscaping, fencing, or other
building construction will make the meter inaccessible.

•

Fenced-in areas, such as along freeways.

•

On power company poles unless approved by the power company.

•

On piers, docks, or berths. Install metering equipment for piers, docks or berths
at a minimum of 10 feet from the edge of the water, or in compliance with the
requirements set forth by the authority having jurisdiction.

UNDERGROUND

•

METERING

Do not install metering equipment in a generator room.

OTHER

•

OVERHEAD

Protection Against Noise Exposure.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Clearances Around Meters
Allow the following clearances around metering equipment:
•

Clearance around the meter: 6 inches above, and to the side of the meter socket
enclosure or instrument transformer enclosure, to any obstruction.

•

A clearance in front of metering equipment of 4 feet by 4 feet by 7 feet with no
obstructions such as walls, fences, trees, hedges, or other structures or
equipment.

OVERHEAD

6" min. on all sides of the meter socket.
Meter socket enclosure
Finish wall for meter mounting
Nearest corner or other obstruction
on either side of meter socket

Ceiling or other obstruction
above meter enclosure

UNDERGROUND

6" minimum

Surface of meter
socket enclosure
7'-0" minimum
working space height

4'-0" minimum
front clearance from
surface of meter socket

METERING

4'-0" min
.

Clear and level working space with no shrubs

Figure 4-2. Clearances around meters.

OTHER
46

5'-0" min.,
6'-0" max.
5'-6" preferred to center
of meter socket

GENERAL
OVERHEAD

METERING

Figure 4-3. Meter electricians performing meter test. Notice the need for workspace
clearance between the meter socket panel, and the pole on the floor.

Electrical Rooms, Meter Closets, and Other Enclosed Areas
If the meter or metering equipment will be installed in a electrical room, meter closet, or
enclosed area, submit drawings of these installations to the power company prior to
construction, for review and approval.

UNDERGROUND

4 feet

OTHER

If the customer locks the doorway to the facility, the lock will be keyed to the power
company’s Best (brand) key core. Alternatively, contact the power company’s Customer
Installations Department for other locking means, such as the use of a key box or Supra
lock box near the doorway.

METERING

Access

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Core furnished and installed by company

OVERHEAD

Throw plug core insert

Lockset (door knob) to be furnished
and installed by customer

Typical lockset installation

UNDERGROUND

Notes:
1. The lockset is furnished and installed by the customer.
2. Core and individual keys are furnished and installed by the power company.
3. All locksets must accommodate the power company’s Best (brand) core insert.
4. Consult with the power company prior to installation.

Figure 4-4. Door locksets.

Doors

METERING

Entry into an electrical room, meter closet, or enclosed area must be through a vertical
doorway that can be opened from the exterior of the building, or an entryway acceptable
to the power company. The door must be at least 3 feet wide and 6 feet 6 inches high.
Neither the ceiling, nor door, nor doorframe shall interfere with the clearances necessary
for the installation or maintenance of service and metering equipment. Center doubledoor frames or similar framing must not obstruct the required workspace clearance in
front of metering equipment.

Communication Equipment

OTHER

Telephone, CATV, data processing equipment, etc. are permitted in an electrical room,
meter closet, or enclosed area under the condition that the installed equipment does not
obstruct or violate the required working space clearances. Communication equipment
must not be installed such that it can contact or open into metering equipment.
Grounding of communication equipment must not alter or reduce the integrity of the
electrical service grounding system.

Foreign Equipment

GENERAL

METERING

•

Gas equipment, including piping systems.

•

Mechanical equipment.

•

Storage of miscellaneous equipment, materials, liquids, etc.

•

Wet filled batteries, battery charging equipment, generators.

•

Irrigation and outdoor garden/landscaping sprinkler controllers.

•

Water heaters or boilers including any piping systems under pressure

OVERHEAD

Equipment not permitted in electrical meter rooms, meter closets, or enclosed metering
areas includes:

UNDERGROUND

Exception: Sprinkler piping systems and sprinkler heads are allowed in these installations if required by the local fire or building codes. The appropriate inspection authority
shall determine placements and shielding of sprinkler heads. When placing sprinklers,
maintain all required metering and workspace clearances.

Illumination and Electrical Outlets

OTHER

METERING

The electrical room, meter closet, or enclosed area must be well lit in accordance with
local building and NEC requirements. Provide a minimum illumination of 50
foot-candles. Install electrical outlets in accordance with local building codes.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Meter bank
or CT cabinet

Meter
cabinet

OVERHEAD

4'-0"

11""

4'-0"

UNDERGROUND

4'-0"
Top View

Notes:
1. Provide at least 11 inches clearance between the face of the meter socket panel and the closet door.
2. The height of the meter closet must be at least 7 feet.

Figure 4-5. Meter closet working space.

METERING
OTHER
50

Meter

Meter or CT cabinet

6" min. clearance at sides
of the meter socket

OVERHEAD

4'-0"
-0" min.
n. in front
ron
of each
eac meter
me

6" min. clearance at sides
of the meter socket

GENERAL

METERING

4'-0" minimum in front
off eachh meter

Provide 6" minimum height clearance above all meter sockets.

Future metering equipment

6"
Meter

Meter
6" min. clearance at sides
of the meter socket

METERING

4'-0"

CT cabinet

1'-0"

UNDERGROUND

Top View

6"
4'-0" minimum

Top View

OTHER

Figure 4-6. Meter room working space.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Meter
x
x

12" min. clearance
from front of adjacent
metering panels

OVERHEAD

4'-0" min.

Chainlink fence or other
permanent barrier to
prevent public access

x
Provide 6" minimum height clearance
above all meter sockets

6" min. clearance
at sides of the
meter socket

4'-0" min.

6" min. clearance
at sides of the
meter socket

Top View

12"

Meter

4'-0" min.

Meter

UNDERGROUND

4'-0" min.

12"

4'-0" min.

Top View

METERING

Figure 4-7. Enclosed area working space.

Freestanding Meter Enclosure, Pedestal, and Steel-Post Structure
Freestanding meter enclosures, pedestals, and steel-post structures are permanent, selfsupporting enclosures or structures constructed for installing or housing electric service
and metering equipment. They are acceptable for installing service and metering
equipment when:

OTHER
52

•

Equipment cannot be installed on an exterior wall, and

•

Adequate wall space in an approved location is not available, or

•

There is no facility or building near the area of service for this equipment.
Examples: Traffic signal service, irrigation service.

Enclosures, cabinets, or equipment installed outdoors must be rain-tight and have a 3R
rating or higher, by NEMA. Enclosures, cabinets, or equipment subjected to corrosive
environments (for example, near coastal areas) should have a NEMA 3R Stainless Steel
rating. The customer may elect to use stainless steel equipment.

GENERAL

METERING

Freestanding Meter Enclosure

OVERHEAD

A freestanding meter enclosure is an enclosure that houses or provides physical
protection for service and metering equipment.
3"

4" × 6" opening for meter reading clear
plexiglass covering. (for each meter).
See Note 1, next page.

4" × 4" butt hinges

Double locking bar with padlock
See Note 2.
3/8" rounded edges
all around

6'-0" max.
3"

Earth to be tamped
around pad after installation

A
Front View
(See next page)

11"
Meter enclosure
NEMA 3R

METERING

Mounting
provisions
See Note 3.

UNDERGROUND

Finish grade

Ground rod
by customer
per NEC

Side View
Section A

OTHER

Figure 4-8a. Free-standing meter enclosure.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

See Detail 1
3' min. height from
finish grade to center of
commercial by-pass device

Meter enclosure

Meter socket
Commercial
by-pass area

Enclosed breaker

Splice can, sealable

6'-0" max.

Concrete slab
4"

OVERHEAD

Finish grade
See utility for conduit size

4" min.
Grounding by customer
per NEC

Meter enclosure
by customer
Meter socket
provided by customer

UNDERGROUND

6" min. between
meter socket
enclosure and
cabinet lip

6" min. between
meter socket enclosure
and cabinet lip
Detail

Section B

Figure 4-8b. Free-standing meter enclosure.

METERING

Notes:
1. The 4" x 6" meter viewing window is aligned over the meter so the meter can be easily read. The meter
is placed so the window will face the public access way. This applies to only rate schedule G and R. A
viewing window is not required for rate schedule J or demand accounts.
2. The customer and the power company to provide one padlock each.
3. Metering equipment is mounted within the enclosure by metal brackets, metal struts, or plywood.
Plywood backboards have a minimum thickness of three-quarters inch and are pressure- and termitetreated (example: Wolmanized).
4. All enclosure sections needing power company access have at least 4 feet workspace clearance in front
of the section doors. Any enclosure sides that are not accessible must have a minimum clearance of 2
feet to allow maintenance.
5. Provide a minimum clearance of 6 inches from the top and sides of the meter socket panel to the
enclosure lip (if applicable). Provide a minimum clearance of 11 inches from the face of the meter socket
panel to the enclosure’s door.
6. For commercial installations, the meter socket is mounted so the center of the commercial by-pass is not
lower than 3 feet from the finish grade. The maximum height of the center of the meter socket is not
greater than 6 feet from the finish grade.
7. Secure the enclosure to a concrete pad with 4-5/8 inch diameter anchor bolts. Reinforce the concrete
pad with #4 bars at 12 inches on-center. The concrete pad has a minimum thickness of 6 inches, and
cured at 3000 PSI strength for 28 days.
8. The finished ground surrounding the enclosure must be level and clear to allow for the use of a ladder.
9. Paint the enclosure with one coat of shop primer followed by two coats of epoxy enamel finish.

OTHER
54

GENERAL

METERING

4'-0"
4'-0"

Finish grade

2'-0"

OVERHEAD

Concrete pad

2'-0"

Free-standing
meter enclosure

UNDERGROUND

4'-0"
4'-0"

Top View

METERING

Figure 4-9. Free-standing meter enclosure working space.

OTHER

Figure 4-10. A free-standing meter enclosure must allow a 6-inch clearance at top and left
side of meter socket to the enclosure rim, to allow the meter electrician to see and align the
meter blades to the meter socket jaws.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Free-Standing Meter Pedestal
A free-standing meter pedestal is an enclosure prefabricated at the factory for use for
service and metering equipment.
Submit manufacturer’s drawings of the meter pedestal to the power company before
purchasing. The power company will need to physically inspect and accept the meter
pedestal before installation.

See Note 3

Enclosing cover
See Notes 3 and 9

UNDERGROUND

Customer
section
See Note 11

90° max
Test bypass
support
Landing lugs and
factory conductors.
See Note 2.

Barrier between
test block and
wireway pull section

Wireway pull section
and cover. See Figure C
and Note 1.
17" min.

Protective metallic
barrier. See Note 7.
Load line

See note 6
Finished
ground line

Finished
ground line

Figure A
Front View

METERING

1.5" typical

See Note 6

Figure B
Side View

.75" min.
Minimum dimensions, single-phase service

3" min.

17" min.

10.5"

20"

11"

See also notes on the next page.

2" min.
5" max.
W
Figure C
Wireway Pull Section

OTHER

Figure 4-11. Free-standing meter pedestal.

Enclosure
cover in open
position

Meter section barrier
to extend to edge of
test block barrier

Test bypass cover and
facilities. See Note 8.

4'-6" min.
6'-0" max.

Meter enclosure
See Note 3 and
table below

6"
max

3"
min

OVERHEAD

Piano-hinge
required

Demand reset cover.
See Notes 3, 9
and Figure D.

All dimensions are minimums
4"

Viewing
window
Figure D
Demand Reset Cover

GENERAL
OVERHEAD
OTHER

METERING

Figure 4-11 Notes:
1. Wireways have the minimum dimensions shown in the table in Figure 4-11. The bottom of the wireway
must accept a 3-inch (minimum) conduit.
2. Service conductors are terminated on landing lugs. The service termination lugs must be #6 through 250
kcmil pressure-type CU-AL listed. Insulated cables or bus shall be installed between the landing lugs and
the commercial by-pass facility.
3. The meter is enclosed. The enclosure cover is hinged and weighs not more than 25 pounds. Allow a
minimum clearance of 11 inches from the face of the meter socket to the enclosure cover. The enclosure
cover has a demand reset cover constructed of steel. The reset cover has a hinged polycarbonateviewing window with the minimum dimensions as shown in Figure D.
4. Do not install ringless sockets.
5. Internal equipment is secured without screws or nuts on the outer surface of the enclosure that may be
loosened from the outside.
6. Consult the power company for the structural mounting and support of the pedestal.
7. Provide a protective metallic barrier (16-gauge minimum) between the power company wireway and
customer distribution section. The protective barrier shall not have a clearance more than 1/4-inch
between the power company wireway and customer section to prevent screws and bolts from protruding
into the termination section. All unmetered (line side of meter) bus or cable shall be separated by
suitable barriers from metered (load side of meter) bus or cable.
8. The pedestal is supplied with commercial by-pass blocks with rigid insulating barriers wired or bussed to
the meter socket by the manufacturer. Connection sequence is Line to Load from left to right. Identify
each Line and Load position with 3/4-inch (minimum) block letter labeling. Seal commercial by-pass
cover panels, and fit them with a lifting handle. For panels exceeding 16 inches wide, install two lifting
handles.
9. All power company compartments (meter cover, demand reset cover, and pull section) shall have
provisions for the power company’s seal or padlock.
10. Install warning labels indicating high voltage and instructing personnel to stay clear of the enclosure, on
the wireway pull section cover and in front of the meter section hinged cover.
11. Enclosure similar to Pacific Utility Products USP-M015 series, or Tescoflex 26-000 models.

UNDERGROUND

METERING

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Free-Standing Steel-Post Structure
A free-standing steel-post structure is a structure made from metal pipes and brackets or
supports to mount service and metering equipment.
Cap 3" pipe

OVERHEAD

3" round pipe galvanized steel
See Note 4
Rain tight meter
socket/main breaker

Steel support frame
Rain tight splice can

2-1/2" x 2-1/4" angle
iron welded to pipe

Customer
Power Company

Customer to provide
provisions for seal by utility
200# pulling line JRP or
equivalent)
Concrete
footing

6" min.

UNDERGROUND

5'-0" min., 6'-0" max.
(5'-6" preferred)

Customer's conductors
(18" min. coil)

Grade

24" min.

Rain tight
splice can

24" min.

Ground per NEC
6"

Grade

6"
Line
(utility)

Load
(customer)

METERING

Front View

Side View

Notes:
1. Do not use plywood backboards for mounting service and metering equipment – weathering can cause
the board to warp or bend.
2. Mount the center of meter socket between 5 feet and 6 feet above the finished grade.
3. The finished ground surrounding the structure must be level and clear to allow for the proper use of a
ladder.
4. If the structure will contain any instrument transformers, the support pipes must be 4-inch round pipe
galvanized steel, installed to a minimum depth of 30 inches.
5. The power company is not responsible for insufficient structural design to support service and metering
equipment. Have all meter support structures reviewed by a qualified professional.

Figure 4-12. Free standing, steel post structure.

OTHER
58

Meter and Main Service Disconnect Configuration

GENERAL

METERING

The customer must furnish and install a fusible switch, circuit breaker, or other
approved disconnecting means to control the service and energy registered by a meter,
before service is energized.

For a single set of service entrance conductors supplying a multi-meter installation of 2 to 6 meters with individual disconnecting means, a main service
disconnecting means on the supply side or before the meters may be installed
when it is determined that future growth will require more than 6 meters. Meter
sockets or equipment for future growth shall be furnished and installed at this
time.

•

In accordance with NEC tap rules, Article 240 Overcurrent Protection, Code
240.21, Location in Circuit.

UNDERGROUND

•

METERING

For a single set of service entrance conductors supplying a multi-meter installation of 7 or more meters with individual disconnecting means, the electrical
code requires a main service disconnecting means on the supply side or before
the meters.

OTHER

•

OVERHEAD

Typically, the disconnecting means or main service disconnect is on the load side, or
after the power company’s meters or metering equipment. These are exceptions:

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Line

Meter

Limit of six service breakers or
switches with fuses permitted

OVERHEAD

Load

Load
Multiple meter installation without main disconnecting switch
A. Six or fewer meters

UNDERGROUND

Service entrance conductor
Main disconnecting switch or circuit breaker
Possible future meter

Meter

METERING

Service switches or
circuit breakers

Load
Multiple meter installation with main disconnecting switch
B. Seven or more meters

Figure 4-13. Meter and main service disconnect configuration.

OTHER
60

Conductors

GENERAL

METERING

The customer must label the conductors and identify conductors by phase, neutral,
ground or high leg where applicable. For example: 1-2-3-N-G, or black-red-blue-whitegreen. Use the colors indicated in Table 4-1 for marking three-phase commercial and
industrial installations.
Service Voltage
Secondary
Primary

Service Type

Phase A-B-C

Neutral

Ground

120/208

Black-Red-Blue

White

Green

240, 4-Wire

Black-Orange-Blue

White

Green

277/480

Brown-Orange-Yellow

White

Green

Primary voltage

1-2-3

White

Green

OVERHEAD

The customer is responsible for sizing and installing the service entrance and load
conductors in accordance with NEC requirements. Service entrance conductors shall not
be sized smaller than the rating of the meter socket.

Table 4-1. Color marking service conductors.

UNDERGROUND

Meter Sockets
Only ring-type meter sockets are acceptable.

•

Only UL (Underwriters Laboratory) and NEMA (National Electrical
Manufacturers Association) rated meter sockets and enclosures designed to meet
ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standards are acceptable.

•

Metering equipment installed outdoors or exposed to the weather must be rain
tight and have a NEMA 3R rating. Metering equipment installed in corrosive
environments where enclosures will be subjected to salt spray, industrial
discharge, etc., should be stainless steel with NEMA 3R rating.

•

Conductor size and type (aluminum or copper) shall be in accordance with
rating of meter socket. When the service requires parallel or multiple conductors,
terminal lugs shall be rated and designed to accept parallel or multiple
conductors. Do not use single terminal lugs to terminate multiple conductors.

•

Cap or plug unused openings of meter sockets or metering enclosures. Use
rain-tight plugs outdoors.

•

Install sockets level, plumb, and secured to a permanent or acceptable structure.

•

Bond meter socket enclosures to the grounding system in accordance with NEC.

•

Do not recess meter sockets or metering equipment within exterior walls,
without approval from the power company.
OTHER

•

METERING

The following are general requirements for meter sockets:

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Switchboard and Switchgear General Requirements
Switchboards and switchgear used for service entrance equipment and for power
company metering must be constructed in compliance with latest revision of EUSERC
(Electric Utility Service Equipment Requirements Committee) specifications. The
customer has these responsibilities:

OVERHEAD
UNDERGROUND
METERING
OTHER
62

•

Submit four sets of manufacturer’s design drawing of switchboard to power
company for approval, before equipment fabrication or construction. Design
drawings of switchboard must reference applicable EUSERC drawings. One set
of drawings will be returned to the sender with approval or required corrections.

•

Metering compartments and unmetered sections must not be used for splicing
or making taps. Separate unmetered buses or cables with barriers from metered
buses or cables. Metered buses or cables must not enter or pass through
unmetered bus or cable compartments or sections.

•

All removable panels and compartment covers or doors that enclose unmetered
buses or cables must have provision for sealing or locking by the power
company.

•

Metering compartments or sections must be exclusively for the power company’s
metering equipment. Do not mount customer equipment such as ammeters,
voltmeters, relays, instrument transformers, fuses, storage batteries, battery
chargers, etc., in compartments designated for the power company, or on
metering panels or metering compartment doors.

•

Connect power for compartment heaters on the load side of metering. Install
heaters so they do not interfere with the installation or removal of the power
company’s metering equipment.

•

Ground and bond switchboard or switchgear in compliance with NEC requirements.

•

See Meter and Main Service Disconnect Configuration section of this manual,
and Figure 4-13 for installations of seven or more meters, if applicable.

•

For remote meter installation for CT metering, the conduit (1-1/4 inch) run
from the CT compartment to the meter socket must not be more than 50 feet
total.

•

Provide an acceptable concrete pad (4-inch minimum).

•

If outdoors, the enclosure for switchboard or switchgear must comply with
EUSERC specifications. Enclosure door(s) must be capable of being opened at
least 90 degrees, and have a latch or locking system to hold the door(s) open. The
enclosure must be weatherproof or NEMA 3R rated. An enclosure subject to
corrosive environment should be stainless steel with NEMA 3R rating. Provide a
minimum clearance of 11 inches from the face of the meter socket panel, to the
enclosure door.

•

If there is risk of vehicular contact, install post barriers to protect the
switchboard or switchgear. See Figure 4-14 for post barriers.

•

Refer to Table 4-3 for switchboard meter mounting heights.

GENERAL

METERING

Bollards
Meters

3'0"

4'-0"
min.

3'0"

3'6"
min.

3'0"

Parking spaces
or
vehicular traffic
Concrete encasement
6" to 12"

3'0"

UNDERGROUND

Meters

3"
3'0"

OVERHEAD

4'0"
min.

Non-removeable
bollard detail
Top view

Figure 4-14. Bollards.

Protect metering equipment located in areas near vehicular traffic with permanent (not
removable) barrier posts. Space the posts to prevent vehicular contact of service and
metering equipment. Install the posts to allow at least 4 feet clearance in front of all
metering equipment, and to allow metering panel doors to open a minimum of 90
degrees.
METERING

Use steel piping with a diameter of 4 inches and a minimum wall thickness of 0.188
inches, filled with concrete. Paint bollards yellow per ANSI spec. Z535.1 to comply with
OSHA 1910.144 for color coding. A 2” wide strip of reflective tape must be placed 6”
below the top of the post.
The concrete encasement surrounding the post must be at least 6 inches thick in stable
soil, or 12 inches thick in sandy or unstable soil.
Before excavating, be sure to determine the location of all existing underground services.

Replacing an Existing Meter
OTHER

Comply with the latest requirements of the power company, city, county, NEC, and
EUSERC when replacing or upgrading service-entrance conductors and service and
metering equipment. The power company will perform all work such as cutting seal(s)
and temporarily removing meter(s) or metering equipment.
63

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Keep Unmetered Conductors Separate
Service entrance conductors that are unmetered must be completely isolated from
metered or load conductors. Unmetered line and metered load conductors must not be
located in the same enclosed space, compartment, or wireway. Separate line and load
conductors by barriers to easily distinguish them from each other. Line conductor
wireways or compartments shall have provisions for sealing by the power company.

OVERHEAD

Sealing of Meters, Metering Equipment
The power company seals all meters, metering enclosures, metering equipment, and
service entrance equipment on the line side of the meter. The power company must
perform all work such as cutting seals or entering sealed enclosures or compartments.

Sub-Metering
Sub-metering or installing a meter after the power company’s meter is not allowed for
residential services.

UNDERGROUND

Self-Contained Metering (0 to 600 Volts)
Self-contained meters carry total load current at the supplied service voltage. The
customer furnishes, owns, installs, and maintains all self-contained equipment except for
the meter itself. The power company provides, owns, installs, and maintains the meter
for self-contained metering.
Self-contained metering is used for service loads of:
•

320 continuous amps or less for single-phase residential service

•

200 continuous amps or less for three-phase residential service and all
commercial services

METERING

Note: Consider transformer-rated metering when future load plans are likely to exceed
the rating for self-contained metering. See Current Transformer-Rated Metering, page
73. The customer must indicate future loads when submitting plans for transformerrated metering.
Classification of Service

Self-Contained Meter Socket

Voltage

Phases

No. of Wires

Number of Jaws

120/240

120/208

240

120/208 Y

277/480 Y

OTHER

Table 4-2. Number of meter socket jaws for self-contained meters.

•

A maximum ampacity rating not less than the ampacity rating of its associated
main service breaker or disconnect, and not less than 100 amps.

•

Install the fifth terminal for 120/208 volt, single-phase, three-wire (network)
services in the 9 o’clock position. See Figure 4-16.

•

Only plug-in-type jaws or terminals with stainless steel spring mounted retaining
clips are acceptable.

•

Before service is provided, the customer shall provide and install meter socket
covers (plastic or glass) and meter bands for all blank meter sockets. Mark or
identify the covers, so they can be returned to the customer after meters are
installed. Cardboard inserts in place of plastic or glass covers are not acceptable.
Also, do not use bladed plastic covers.

OVERHEAD

The requirements for self-contained meter sockets are:

GENERAL

METERING

Self-contained meter sockets for single-phase residential service must not contain a
commercial test by-pass/disconnect facility. Three-phase meter sockets for residential
services must be equipped with a commercial test by-pass/disconnect facility.

320 Amp Self-Contained Metering

•

Use 320-amp self-contained metering for 120/240 volt, 4-jaw, single-phase
residential services.

•

The maximum load is 320 continuous amps. Use transformer-rated metering
when present or projected loads exceed 320 continuous amps.

•

Use a self-contained meter socket rated for 400 maximum amps. The socket
must not contain a Manual Circuit Closing (MCC) by-pass, or a lever by-pass.
Use a meter socket similar to Circle AW catalog numbers U404MC or U4042MC.

METERING

Class 320 metering is recommended for service demand loads from 42 kW to 72 kW. For
this type metering:

UNDERGROUND

Residential Service

Commercial Service
Self-contained meter sockets for commercial installations shall be equipped with a
commercial test by-pass/disconnect facility. The commercial test by-pass/disconnect
(safety socket) facility makes it safe for power company personnel to work on a
de-energized meter socket without interrupting service to the customer.
The maximum main circuit breaker rating shall not exceed the meter socket continuous
amp rating.

OTHER

Label the line and load terminals on by-pass terminals.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

OVERHEAD

line load

Ground per NEC

Figure 4-15. Meter socket wiring, 4-jaw, single-phase, 3-wire, 120/240 volts.

UNDERGROUND

5th jaw
9 o'clock position

METERING

line load line load line load

Ground per NEC

Figure 4-16. Meter socket wiring, 5-jaw, single-phase, 3-wire, 120/208 volts. .

OTHER
66

OVERHEAD

High leg, 208 volts to ground.
See note below

GENERAL

METERING

Ground per NEC

7-Jaw
3 phase, 4-wire Y 120/208
or 277/480 volts

line load line load line load

Ground per NEC

7-Jaw
3 phase, 4-wire delta, 240 volts

Note: For three-phase, 4-wire delta services, install the high leg (208 volts) at the upper-right meter jaw and
mark it appropriately. To insure proper connections, the customer marks the high leg plainly at the
weatherhead.

UNDERGROUND

line load line load line load

Figure 4-17. Meter socket wiring, 7-jaw socket.

Manual Circuit Closing (MCC) Bypass and HQ Sockets
METERING

Only meter sockets with safety test bypass blocks, or meter sockets that can be
completely de-energized without affecting the customer, are acceptable. Meter sockets
containing manual circuit closing bypasses, and HQ-type (lever bypass) meter sockets
are not acceptable.

Grouped Meter Installations

Additional meter sockets or service equipment installed after the initial installation to
be grouped or located at the same location of electric meters serving the premises, unless
otherwise approved by the power company.

OTHER

A grouped meter installation is an arrangement of two or more individually mounted
meter sockets installed at a single location. Grouped meters are usually supplied from a
single electrical service. Submit the plan drawings showing the grouped meter installation to the power company for approval before purchasing metering equipment. Also,
consult with the power company to determine an acceptable meter location.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Grouped meters have the following mounting height requirements:
For grouped meters at locations accessible to pedestrian traffic or public contact: the
meter mounting heights shall be between 5 feet and 6 feet, measured from the finish
floor to the center of the meter socket.
Ceiling
6" min.

OVERHEAD

Sealable line gutter
Meter
sockets

Load gutter

6'-0" max.
5'-0" min.
5'-6" preferred
mounting height

Finished ground line
Front View

UNDERGROUND

Ceiling
4'-0" min. clearance
from meter
socket surface

6" min. clearance
at sides of meter socket
4'-0" min.
clearance

6'-0" max.
5'-0" min.
5'-6" preferred
mounting height
Finished
ground line
Side View

6" min.
Top View

METERING

Figure 4-18. Grouped meters installed outdoors, and accessible to pedestrian traffic.
Notes:
1. Acceptable for residential single-phase service, and for commercial single-phase and three-phase
services.
2. See Meter and Main Service Disconnect and Sequence section and Figure 4-13 for group meter installations of seven or more meters. Do not install the main service disconnect ahead (or line side) of meters
for six or less grouped meters.
3. Provide provisions for sealing the line gutter. Load conductors shall not enter or run through a line gutter.
Contact and coordinate with the power company for work that requires entering a sealed line gutter.
4. Mount the line gutter as close as reasonable to the meter sockets (within approximately 4”) for ease of
inspection and sealing.

OTHER
68

For grouped meters at locations not accessible to pedestrian traffic or public contact
such as in a meter room, meter closet, or an enclosed area that can be locked: the meter
mounting heights shall be between 4 feet 6 inches and 6 feet 6 inches, measured from
the finish floor or grade, to the center of the meter socket.

GENERAL

METERING

Ceiling
6" min.
Sealable line gutter

Load gutter

OVERHEAD

Meter
sockets
6'-6" max.
4'-6" min.
5'-6" preferred
mounting height

Finished ground line
Front View

4'-0" min. clearance
from meter
socket surface
6'-6" max.
4'-6" min.
5'-6" preferred
mounting height
Finished
ground line
Side View

3'-0" max.

Post-type
barriers

3'-0" max.

4'-0" min.
clearance

3'-0" max.
3'-0" max.

UNDERGROUND

Ceiling

Post-type
barriers
6" min.
Top View

OTHER

Notes:
1. Acceptable for residential single-phase services and commercial single-phase and three-phase services.
2. Meter closets located in parking lots require post barriers. Maintain 4 feet workspace clearance. Spacing
between posts shall be 3 feet.
3. See Meter and Main Service Disconnect and Sequence section and Figure 4-13 for grouped meter
installations of seven or more meters. Main service disconnect shall not be installed ahead (or line side)
of meters for six or less grouped meters.
4. Provide provisions for sealing the line gutter. Load conductors shall not enter or run through line gutter.
Contact and coordinate with the power company for work that requires entering a sealed line gutter.
4. Mount the line gutter as close as reasonable to the meter sockets (within approximately 4”) for ease of
inspection and sealing.

METERING

Figure 4-19. Grouped meters in a meter closet, and not accessible to pedestrian traffic.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Meter Centers
Meter centers or meter banks are prefabricated service entrance equipment that
combines the service termination section, metering section(s), and distribution section.
A meter center is installed where an individually metered distribution center is required.
Meter centers are primarily used for multi-family dwelling units, commercial units, and
light industrial applications. The following are requirements for meter center installations:

OVERHEAD

•

Submit manufacturer’s drawings showing dimensions of meter center for
approval prior to ordering.

•

Suitable barriers must separate the line (unmetered) bus and conductors from
the load (metered) bus and conductors.

Equip house meter sockets with a commercial test by-pass facility.
Meter centers shall have the following meter mounting height requirements:

UNDERGROUND

1. For meter centers in locations not accessible to pedestrian traffic or public
contact such as in a meter room, meter closet, or an enclosed area that can be
locked: Meter mounting heights are between 3 feet and 6 feet 6 inches, measured
from the finish floor or grade to the center of the meter.
2. For meter centers in locations accessible to pedestrian traffic or public contact:
Meter mounting heights, measured at the center of the meter, are between 4 feet
6 inches and 6 feet, measured from the finish floor or grade to the center of the
meter.
•

METERING
OTHER
70

Submit the manufacturer’s catalog dimensional diagram and specification sheet for approval.

Customer's
service entrance
conductors

GENERAL

METERING

OVERHEAD

Sealable wiring gutter. May be
located at bottom of panels.

Circuit breaker. May be located
at top or side of meter panels.

Six meters or less without main switch
Customer's
service entrance
conductors

Main
switch

UNDERGROUND

Typical house meter
socket. Commercial
by-pass is required
for commercial account.

Commercial
by-pass area

Circuit breaker
Seven meters or more with required main switch

METERING

Figure 4-20. Quick-stack meter centers with meter socket breaker provisions. For
single-phase service cubicles.

OTHER

With spacer kit and stack units

Figure 4-21. Manufactured combination multi-meter service equipment.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Solid floor required
if meter is located at
6'-6" maximum height

Pad

Switchboard

4'-0" min.
clearance

OVERHEAD

6" max. in front
Top View
4'-0" min.
clearance

UNDERGROUND

6'-0" max.

6'-0" max.
6" max. in front

4'-6" min.

4'-6" min.
Pad

Side View

Finished
ground line

Pad
Front View

Figure 4-22. Meter heights and workspace clearance for outdoor switchboard accessible to
public contact.

METERING
OTHER
72

Pad

GENERAL

METERING

OVERHEAD

Switchboard

4'-0" min.
clearance

6" max. in front
Top View

6'-6" max.

UNDERGROUND

4'-0" min.
clearance

6'-6" max.
6" max. in front

3'-0" min.

3'-0" min.
Pad

Side View

Finished
ground line

Pad
Front View

Figure 4-23. Meter heights and workspace clearance for indoor switchboard in meter room
not accessible to public contact.

OTHER

METERING

Notes:
1. For commercial installation, the minimum height is 3 feet from finish floor to the center of the
commercial test by-pass area.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Meter Mounting Heights
Location and Description
of Meter Installation
Individual Meters
Accessible to public contact

Service

Minimum Preferred Maximum

See
Figure

OVERHEAD

Residential, Commercial

5’-0"

5’-6"

6’-0"

In a meter room, meter closet, or
Residential, Commercial
enclosed area not accessible to the public

4’-6"

5’-6"

6’-0"

Residential, Commercial

5’-0"

5’-6"

6’-0"

4-18

In a meter room, meter closet, or
Residential, Commercial
enclosed area not accessible to the public

4’-6"

5’-6"

6’-6"

4-19

Residential,
Commercial

3’-0"*

5’-6"

6’-0"

4-8b

Residential, Commercial

4’-6"

5’-6"

6’-0"

4-22

In a meter room, meter closet, or
Residential, Commercial
enclosed area not accessible to the public

3’-0"*

5’-6"

6’-6"

4-23

Grouped Meters
Accessible to public contact

Free-Standing Meters
Outdoors, free-standing meter enclosure
Switchboard Meters and Meter Centers

UNDERGROUND

Accessible to public contact

Notes:
Meter heights are measured from finish grade or floor, to the center of the meter socket(s).
* Minimum height of 3 feet is measured from finish grade to center of the commercial test by-pass area.

Table 4-3. Meter heights.

Metering With Instrument Transformers
METERING

Instrument transformers (current transformers or CTs, and voltage/potential
transformers or VTs) are used for metering when the electrical service exceeds the
voltage and/or current ratings of self-contained meters.
The customer furnishes, installs, and maintains all equipment, conduits or raceways, and
materials needed for instrument transformer metering. The metering equipment must
be installed in a readily accessible location acceptable to the power company, and
meeting the installation requirements described below.
The power company owns, provides, installs, wires, and maintains the meter, instrument
transformers, test switch, and the wiring between these items.

OTHER

Consult with the power company before purchasing, manufacturing, or installing
instrument transformer metering equipment. Submit plans of the installation, and
receive approval from the power company before purchasing or installing this
equipment.

Current Transformer-Rated Metering (0 to 600 Volts)

GENERAL

METERING

•

320 continuous amps for single-phase residential service, or

•

200 amps for three-phase residential service, or

•

200 amps for single-phase or three-phase commercial service.

Classification of Service

Transformer-Rated
Meter Socket

Voltage

Phases

How Many Wires

How Many Jaws

120/240

120/208

2400

7200

120/208Y

240 Delta

277/480Y

2400/4160Y

7200/12470Y

14400/25000Y

UNDERGROUND

Note: If the customer requests CT metering when load currents are below these requirements but not less than 100 amps, the customer will be charged for the equipment and
labor to install CTs.

OVERHEAD

Current transformers are used for metering when the load exceeds, or will exceed any of
these load currents:

Table 4-4. Number of meter socket jaws for transformer-rated meters.

METERING

Current Transformer Cabinet Installation

•

Provides and installs the CT cabinet ahead of the main breaker or disconnect.
Install the CT cabinet on the line-side of the main disconnect unless otherwise
required by NEC and/or approved by the power company.

•

Provide and install the meter socket, with the number of jaws to match the service
type. See Table 4-4. The meter socket shall have provisions to install a test switch.
Allow at least 6 inches clearance between the meter socket enclosure and the CT
cabinet, when the meter socket and CT cabinet are mounted next to each other.

•

Provide and install a 1-1/4" conduit between the meter socket and the CT
cabinet. The conduit run must not exceed 50 feet in length or have more than
two 90-degree bends.

OTHER

Current transformers are mounted in cabinets or enclosures for safety and protection.
The customer:

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

•

The minimum size of the CT cabinet is shown in Table 4-5. Use the next larger
cabinet size if the conductor size is not listed, or consult with the power
company.
Cabinet Size
W” × H” × D”

Maximum Number and Size of Conductors

OVERHEAD

30 × 30 × 11

One #3/0 per phase or smaller

36 × 36 × 11

One 500 kcmil per phase or smaller

42 × 42 × 11

Three 500 kcmil per phase or smaller

36 × 48 × 11

Three 500 kcmil per phase or smaller with side entrance cables only

48 × 48 × 11

Consult the power company

Table 4-5. Minimum sizes for instrument transformer cabinets.

UNDERGROUND
METERING
OTHER
76

•

Consult with the power company when installing more than four sets of 500
kcmil conductors per phase. CT cabinets are limited to no more than four sets of
500 kcmil conductors per phase, unless permitted by the power company. Use a
switchboard when there are more than 4 sets of 500 kcmil conductors per phase.

•

Inside the CT cabinet, install mounting brackets types C and Z, to mount
transformers. Coordinate this with the power company. See Figures 4-24, 4-25
and 4-26.

Vertical Z bracket

GENERAL

METERING

CT cabinet
Horizontal C bracket

CTs or VTs furnished
by power company

OVERHEAD

Cover

CT cabinet

Horizontal C brackets (flat)
Vertical Z bracket
located at the end of
the C bracket

UNDERGROUND

Vertical Z bracket
located at the end of
the C bracket

Connect the horizontal C brackets to the vertical Z brackets as shown. Do not tighten
C brackets for field adjustments. See Figure 4-24, inset.

OTHER

HECO only: Center the brackets within the CT cabinet and secure the Z brackets to the
CT cabinet with 3 self-tapping screws spaced evenly apart.

METERING

Figure 4-24. Instrument transformer cabinet with C and Z bracket mounting.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Do not
tighten

OVERHEAD
Self-tapping
screw

UNDERGROUND

Z bracket
“C” bracket

Figure 4-25. C and Z bracket installations.

METERING

Bond the CT cabinet and meter socket enclosure per the NEC. The grounding electrode
conductor shall not pass through CT cabinet or power company-sealed enclosures unless
authorized by the power company.
The top of the CT cabinet must not exceed 6 feet above the finish floor or grade, unless
approved by the power company. The bottom of the CT cabinet must not be lower than
12 inches above the finish floor or grade.
The CT Cabinet must have two fixed solid handles for lifting. CT cabinets 42 inches
wide or more, must have two-piece covers.
CT cabinets and meter sockets installed outdoors must be UL listed and weatherproof
with a NEMA 3R rating. Enclosures subjected to corrosive environments, excessive
moisture or salt spray should be Stainless Steel (SS) with a class rating of NEMA 3R.

OTHER

Only conductors associated with metering shall be permitted in the CT cabinet. No
splices or feeder taps.
78

The cabinet shall have provisions for sealing by the power company.

GENERAL

METERING

Provide sufficient conductor lengths within the CT cabinet for the installation of CTs
and the termination of conductors.

Mount the CT cabinet level and secure to a permanent or acceptable structure. Plywood
backboard is not an acceptable support for CT cabinets mounted outdoors.
Vertical Z
mounting bracket
(typical)
Horizontal C
mounting bracket
(typical)

OVERHEAD

HECO only: Provide a minimum of 2 full coil loops in the cabinet, or sufficient
conductor lengths to terminate at both the splice can and main breaker or disconnect
switch.

50' max.
Bonding lug
min. #8 bonding wire

Load
1-1/4"
conduit

UNDERGROUND

Test switch
mounting bracket
Watthour meter

Line
6'-0" max.
Neutral, when required

6'-0" max.
5'-0" min.
5'-6" preferred

Instrument transformer cabinet

METERING

1'-0" min.
Finish grade

OTHER

Figure 4-26. Instrument transformer cabinet installation (with rigid conduits).
Notes:
1. Consult with the power company prior to installation.
2. HECO only: Customer to supply sleeves for splicing all conductors other then 350 and 500 kcmil.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Switchboard Installation with Instrument Transformers
The following are customer responsibilities:

OVERHEAD

•

The metering compartment or CT compartment must be on the supply side
(line side) of the main breaker or disconnect.

•

For CT compartment door with a meter socket panel and a blank panel (see
EUSERC drawings 325, 326 & 332), place the meter socket panel at the lower
section of the compartment door with the blank panel placed above. Secure both
the meter socket panel and the blank panel together, to operate as a single door.

•

Install the meter socket panel door so the test switch opening is located on the
hinge side of the door.

•

Locate the ground conductor connection to the ground rod (or grounding
electrode system) in the main breaker compartment, or outside of the power
company’s sealable compartments.

Meter Mounting Heights (Up to 600 Volts)
UNDERGROUND

Location, Description of Meter Installation

Service

Minimum Preferrred Maximum

CT Can
Accessible to public contact

Residential,
Commercial

5’-0"

5’-6"

6’-0"

Within a meter room, meter closet, or enclosed
area not accessible to public contact

Residential,
Commercial

4’-6"

5’-6"

6’-0"

Accessible to public contact

Commercial

5’-0"

5’-6"

6’-0"

Within a meter room, meter closet, or enclosed
area not accessible to public contact

Commercial

4’-6"

5’-6"

6’-0"

Switchboard

Note: Heights are measured from finish grade or floor, to the center of the meter socket.

METERING

Table 4-6. Mounting heights for transformer-rated meter installations for secondary services
up to 600 volts.

High Voltage Metering (Over 600 Volts)
The voltage and service type supplied to a customer depends on the load, rate schedule,
and type of electric service available in the locality.
HECO only: The power company supplies and installs the primary voltage, current
transformers and potential transformers for metering. HECO also furnishes and installs
the meter(s), test switch(s) and associated wiring.

OTHER

Switchgear used for service entrance equipment and power company metering must
comply with EUSERC specifications. The customer has these responsibilities:

•

Furnish switchgear with insulating boots or covers, or an insulated bus at CT
termination points. Provide grounding knobs on line and load side of bus at
each current transformer location for safety grounds.

•

Furnish switchgear with 1-inch conduit for secondary wiring of instrument
transformers. See Figure 4-27.

•

Provide self-shorting and non-shorting terminal blocks (6-point terminals) for
instrument transformer secondary wiring. Consult the power company for
specifications and requirements.

•

Switchgear must have mounting racks or supports for potential transformers.

•

Permanently label switchgear metering compartments with machine engraved
laminated phenolic (or equal) tags. Use quarter-inch white letters and numbers on
red-colored material that is readily visible and attached to metering compartments.
See EUSERC drawing 400.

•

Switchgear must have adequate space between panels and facilities to install
meter(s), test switch(s), and auxiliary devices furnished by the power company.
Consult with the power company for wiring space requirements behind the
meter.

•

Do not mount equipment on the floor or ceiling within 6 inches of the
switchgear.

GENERAL

Switchgear VT fuse mounting clips must be constructed to accommodate current
limiting fuses. The customer is responsible for supplying primary fuses for
potential transformers. Also, the customer supplies the primary leads from the
fuse holders to VT terminals.

UNDERGROUND

•

METERING

Switchgear must be designed so the power company’s voltage/potential
transformers are tapped before or on the line-side of the power company current
transformers. Also, switchgear must have a VT disconnect with an interlock
system and viewing window of disconnect blades. See EUSERC drawing 400.

OTHER

•

OVERHEAD

METERING

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

4" min.

Wiring space
11"
90° min
opening

OVERHEAD

90° min
opening

Outdoor NEMA 3R
door shown

Top View

Pulling eye
18"

18"
4"
No-load voltage
transformer
disconnect

36"

A
See drawing 402
No-load voltage
transformer
disconnect

36"

UNDERGROUND

1-inch conduit
for VT and CT
secondaries

See Note 6

H
1-inch VT and CT
conduits located
on hinged meter
panel

See Note 4

30"
N

See
Note 7

30"

N
See EUSERC
drawing 402

6"
E
Front View

See EUSERC
drawing 408
for CT info

N
D

6"
11

Side View

METERING

Notes:
1. See Table 4-1 for clearances, dimensions.
2. For rear access door details, see EUSERC drawing 400, Sheet 2, Note 8.
3. Consult power company for wiring space requirements behind panel. Flush-mounted meters require a
minimum of 10 inches wiring space.
4. Consult power company for neutral bushing details, shown here as a thru-wall insulator mounted on
either side of the VT compartment.
5. Primary taps for VTs must be connected to the line-side of metering CTs.
6. Customer to supply HV leads with lugs from fuse holder to VT terminals.
7. Customer to supply and stock VT fuses similar to Cuttler Hammer 15 CLPT-5E, Cat #677C452G03.

Figure 4-27. Metering enclosure for high voltage (2,400 to 25,000 volts). Reference: EUSERC
drawing 402, sheet 2, revision 4, 2004.

OTHER
82

2400V

4160/4800V

Minimum bare bus clearance,
phase to ground

3-1/2"

7-1/2"

Minimum bare bus clearance,
phase to phase

7-1/2"

Dimension A

5" min
10" max

8" min
10" max

9" min
15" max

Dimension B

24"

36"

Dimension C

24"

36"

Dimension D

12" min

Dimension E

36" min

48" min

60" min

Dimension F

42" min
48" max

56" min
60" max

Dimension G

36" min

48" min

Dimension H, fuse mounting clip center

8-1/2"

11-1/2"

15"

Dimension H, fuse ferrule diameter

1-5/8"

18"

Consult power
company

Table 4-7. Meter enclosure clearances. Refer to Figure 4-27.

Primary Metering on a Power Company Pole
Contact the power company’s Customer Installations Department for the requirements
for outdoor pole-mounted metering.

UNDERGROUND

Dimension I

7200/17000V 20800/25000V

OVERHEAD

Specifications

GENERAL

METERING

Specialized Metering
Pulse outputs, also called KYZ outputs, are dry contact signals sent from the power
company’s meter, to report consumption in kilowatthours (kWh), and when applicable,
kilovarhours (kVARh). KYZ outputs can be delivered in a three-wire format from Form
C contacts, or in a two-wire format from Form A contacts. These pulses are proportional
to energy usage, and can be used by the customer to monitor and control energy
consumption.

METERING

Pulse Metering Output (KYZ Output)

•

The maximum rate at which the EMS (pulse receiving equipment) can accept
pulses. The pulse receiving equipment must be compatible with the utility
company’s metering equipment.

•

The customer’s demand in kilowatts, or load.

OTHER

To apply for this service, make a service request to the utility’s Customer Installations
Department. When that service request is received, a representative from that
department will call to get further information including:

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

The power company will review the request, then send a written proposal for the service
to the customer.

OVERHEAD

The customer pays all costs for this service, as explained in Rule 13 of the utility
company’s tariff, Section D, Paragraph 5. This charge includes the cost for a meter that
provides KYZ pulses, an isolation relay board to prevent interference with revenue
metering, and installation of the service. This charge is for kilowatthour (kWh) pulses
only. An additional charge will be assessed for kilovarhour (kVARh) pulses. In the future,
the customer might be assessed a monthly charge for maintenance of this service.
Requirements for receiving pulses vary according to the physical setup of the customer’s
metering installation. For a metering switchboard installation, the isolation relay can be
mounted on the door of the metering compartment. For other installations, such as a
meter socket installation, the customer provides a sealable junction box to house the
isolation relay, mounted adjacent to the meter socket. If the installation is outdoors, the
junction box must be NEMA 3R rated. The junction box must be bonded and grounded,
with 3/4” conduit used to connect the splice box to the meter socket.

UNDERGROUND

In all cases, the customer pulls their wires to the isolation relay. Coordinate this work
with the utility to ensure that the wires are pulled safely. The utility then makes the
pulse-output connection to the customer’s wire at the isolation relay. The customer
installs, owns, and maintains all equipment on the load side of the isolation relay. The
utility will provide the customer with the pulse weight value (kilowatt-hour per pulse) to
use with their energy management system.
The accuracy of the customer’s pulse or alarm receiving equipment is the responsibility
of the customer and the manufacturer of that equipment. The utility is not responsible
or liable for inaccurate readings or inaccurate data generated, or for faulty pulse
information supplied to the customer.
For load control information, the customer must not connect to, or utilize the utility’s
revenue metering instrument transformers (CTs or VTs).

METERING

The power company reserves the right to modify the pulse characteristics furnished to
the customer when necessary, due to changes in metering equipment, instrument
transformers, isolation relay board, etc.

Remote Interrogation Via Telephone
For rate Schedule P, and large Schedule J service requests (demand of 200 kW or
greater), the customer provides a telephone connection to the meter including the
conduit, telephone jack, associated wiring, etc., to allow the power company to remotely
read the meter. The customer provides a dedicated or shared (for example, fax, modem,
etc.) analog telephone line for remote interrogation of the meter. Contact the utility’s
Customer Installations Department for details.

OTHER
84

For a telephone line connection to the meter, the customer provides:

GENERAL

METERING

•

Run a 3/4-inch conduit from the telephone service panel to a junction box (JB)
installed next to the meter socket. The JB must be sized to adequately house and
wire an RJ-11 telephone jack (6" × 6" × 4" minimum). Connect the 3/4-inch
conduit from the JB to the meter socket.

•

Pull a CAT 5E telephone cable from the telephone service panel to the JB.
Terminate the cable in the JB with an RJ-11 telephone jack. Also, terminate the
cable to an RJ-11 jack at the telephone service panel. Label the RJ-11 jack at the
telephone service panel "HECO Meter" (the applicable power company name)
and the telephone number.

•

If the telephone line is a shared line, a line-sharing device must be installed in or
near the telephone service panel. The line-sharing device will require 120 VAC
power.

•

The installation must comply with NEC requirements.

OVERHEAD

Telephone Connection to Current Transformer (CT) Cabinet

Run a 3/4-inch conduit from the telephone service panel to the meter socket
compartment of the switchboard. Install the conduit on the hinge side, near the
front corner of the meter socket compartment door.

•

Pull a CAT 5E telephone cable from the telephone service panel to the meter
socket compartment. Run the telephone cable along the hinge side of the
compartment door to the meter socket. Terminate the cable in the compartment
with an RJ-11 telephone jack. Leave the telephone jack hanging near the meter
socket with some cable slack for field adjustment. Also, terminate the cable to an
RJ-11 jack on the telephone service panel end. Locate the jack within the panel.

•

Label the RJ-11 jacks "HECO Meter" (the applicable power company name) and
the telephone number.

•

If the telephone line is a shared line, a line-sharing device must be installed
within or near the telephone service panel. The line-sharing device will require
120 VAC power.

•

The installation must comply with NEC requirements.

METERING

•

UNDERGROUND

Telephone Connection to Switchboard

Totalized Metering – Commercial and Industrial, Primary Voltage

OTHER

For new installations where the expected demand or load cannot be serviced and
metered at a single point, the utility may specify that totalized metering be installed.
Installations with more than one distribution feeder serving a single location, usually
require totalized metering to provide a single metering point. For these installations,
totalized metering is installed at no charge to the customer. Also, depending on the

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

number of distribution feeders, the type of metering scheme, and the distance between
metering points, the utility may require that telephone line (analog) connections be
provided to each meter, for totalized metering.

OVERHEAD

Similarly, when a service requires more than one distribution feeder, and the distance
between the metering points of the feeders is greater than 50 feet, telephone line
connections to the meters are required, for totalized metering. The meters are totalized
through this telephone line communication. Alternatively, if the customer requests that
the totalized meter be physically placed at their location, metering points for the feeders
must be less than 300 feet apart. Note that additional raceway and other charges may be
assessed.
The customer submits plans to the power company for approval, when requesting
totalized metering. The customer pays the additional cost for installing totalized
metering equipment.

Customer Generation

UNDERGROUND

No electrical connections shall be made to the service entrance conductors or electrical
service equipment without written approval from the power company. The customer
must notify the power company, prior to installation of any emergency or standby
sources of electric service. This applies to all permanent or portable emergency or
standby sources, designed to energize the customer’s electrical system.

Three types of customer generation
Three types of customer generation are available. Contact the indicated power company
division/department, and follow the noted requirements for approval:
Parallel Operation, With Sales to the Power Company
HECO customers
•

Contact HECO’s Power Purchase Division at (808)543-4340.

METERING

MECO customers
•

For power generation up to 100 kW, contact Maui Electric Company at
(808) 871-8461.

•

For power generation greater than 100 kW, contact HECO’s Power Purchase
Division at (808)543-4340.

HELCO customers

OTHER
86

•

For power generation up to 100 kW, contact HELCO’s Engineering Department
at (808)969-0322.

•

For power generation greater than 100 kW, contact HECO’s Power Purchase
Division at (808)543-4340.

Parallel Operation Without Sales to the Power Company

GENERAL

METERING

HECO customers: Contact HECO’s Energy Services Department at (808) 543-4750
HELCO customers: Contact HELCO’s Customer Services Department (808) 969-0134
MECO customers: Contact MECO’s Engineering Department (808) 871-2390
Stand-By or Emergency Generators (Permanent or Portable)
OVERHEAD

The customer submits to the utility for approval, building plans approved by the city
and the county. Submit these plans to the utility’s Customer Installation’s Department.
Include a one-line diagram showing the interconnection scheme of the stand-by or
emergency generator, service and metering equipment location (top view), and service
and metering equipment elevation.
Do not install emergency generators in locations where metering facilities could be
subject to noise levels in excess of 85 dB.

Before any connection is made to an emergency power source, isolate and separate all
ungrounded conductors from utility’s normal supply.
Emergency or stand-by power sources must only be utilized when the power company
can not provide normal service.
The emergency transfer device or scheme shall be designed, constructed, and installed to
prevent the customer’s emergency power source from feeding back into the utility’s
distribution system.

UNDERGROUND

Per the NEC, place a sign at the service entrance equipment indicating the type and
location of the on-site emergency or stand-by power source.

A main transfer switch is not required for an emergency or stand-by power source when
separate circuits, independent from the customer’s electrical system, are used to serve
specific equipment.

Meter Requirements for Self-Contained Metering (0-600 Volts)
The following metering requirements apply to customers with written approval from the
power company to interconnect an external generator and the utility’s system, and have
service loads that permit self-contained metering.

METERING

Conductors intended for emergency or stand-by power source must not be installed in
the same conduits or raceways as the utility’s service entrance conductors.

New Installations

OTHER

Depending on the generation agreement and metering scheme, two watthour meters
may be used to obtain the delivered and/or received energy. In this instance, the
customer provides and installs two meter sockets for metering. The power company
provides, installs, seals, and maintains the meter(s).

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Existing Installations
Depending on the generation agreement and metering scheme, two watthour meters
may be used to obtain the delivered and/or received energy. In this instance, the
customer provides and installs an additional meter socket for metering. The power
company provides, installs, seals, and maintains the meter(s).

line

load

line

load

line

load

line

load

line

line
load

OVERHEAD
N

UNDERGROUND
Measures power from utility

Measures power from customer

Figure 4-28. Interconnection wiring, two self-contained meters for a commercial service, 0600 volts. Example shown: 4-wire wye, 120/208 volts or 277/480 volts.

METERING

Meter Requirements for Current and/or Potential Transformer Metering
The following metering requirements apply to customers with written approval from the
utility to interconnect an external generator and the power company’s system with
service loads that require current transformers and/or potential transformers for
metering.
New Installations
Non Schedule P and Large J Customers

OTHER

Depending on the generation agreement and metering scheme, two watthour/demand
meters may be used for metering – one as the primary meter and the other as a back-up
meter. In this instance, the customer provides and installs two meter sockets, and
interconnecting conduits. The power company provides, installs, seals, and maintains the
instrument transformer and meter(s).

For Schedule P and Large J Customers

GENERAL

METERING

OVERHEAD

Depending on the generation agreement and metering scheme, two
watthour/demand/varhour meters may be used for metering – one as the primary meter
and the other as a back-up meter. In this instance, the customer provides and installs
two meter sockets, with interconnecting conduits. The customer also provides analog
telephone line connections to the meter(s). The power company provides, installs, seals,
and maintains the instrument transformer and meter(s).
Existing Installations
For Non Schedule P and Large J Customers
Depending on the generation agreement and metering scheme, two watthour/demand
meters may be required for metering – one as the primary meter and the other as a
back-up meter. In this instance, the customer provides and installs an additional meter
socket, and interconnecting conduits. The power company provides, installs, seals, and
maintains the instrument transformer and meter(s).
For Schedule P and Large J Customers
UNDERGROUND

Depending on the generation agreement and metering scheme, two
watthour/demand/varhour meters may be required for metering – one as the primary
meter and the other as a back-up meter. In this instance, the customer provides and
installs an additional meter socket, and interconnecting conduits. The customer also
provides analog telephone line connections to the meter(s). The power company
provides, installs, seals, and maintains the instrument transformer and meter(s).
Wiring Requirements
The customer contacts the power company to determine the responsibilities for the
installation, wiring, and maintenance of instrument transformers and test switches.
The customer marks each meter socket to indicate direction of power flow, if applicable.

METERING

HELCO only: The customer provides and installs the color-coded conductors. HELCO
will terminate all wiring within the instrument transformer cabinet.

Service Entrance Grounding and Bonding

OTHER

Figures 4-29 through 4-35 show typical grounding and bonding practices. The methods
shown in these figures meet NEC requirements, but are not necessarily the only
acceptable grounding and bonding methods.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Neutral bus
bonded to enclosure
N
Neutral conductor

*Equipment bonding jumper
sized per NEC
Grounding electrode conductor

OVERHEAD

Cold water pipe or
supplementary ground
Metallic Conduits
*As an alternative, a continuous bonding jumper
can be used to bond service enclosures and conduits

HUB/Grounding bushing
(Metallic conduit)

Neutral conductor
N

Neutral bus
bonded to enclosure
Grounding electrode conductor
Cold water pipe or
supplementary ground

Grounding and Bonding Diagrams
for Dwelling Services

Neutral bus
bonded to enclosure
N

UNDERGROUND

Neutral conductor

Equipment bonding jumper
sized per NEC
Grounding electrode conductor
Cold water pipe or
supplementary ground

Non-Metallic Conduits

Figure 4-29. Service entrance grounding and bonding diagrams for typical overhead and
underground dwelling services.

METERING
OTHER
90

Neutral bonded to enclosure (main bonding jumper)

GENERAL

METERING

OVERHEAD

Neutral conductor
(dashed line)

6'-0" max
5'-0" min.
5'-6" preferred (typical)
Main breaker
(typical)

Grounding electrode conductor

Bonding jumper or screw to
enclosure (typical)

Ground electrode system
Size all grounding and bonding conductors in accordance with NEC.

UNDERGROUND

Figure 4-30. Service entrance grounding and bonding, multi-meter installation with
non-metallic conduits.

Neutral bonded to enclosure (main bonding jumper)
N
Hub

Neutral conductor
(dashed line)

Grounding electrode conductor

METERING

6'-0" max
5'-0" min.
5'-6" preferred (typical)
Bonding jumper or screw to
enclosure (typical). Do not bond neutral.

Ground electrode system

Size all grounding and bonding conductors in accordance with NEC.

OTHER

Figure 4-31. Service entrance grounding and bonding, multi-meter installation with metallic
conduits.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Main service
disconnect

Hub

Neutral
conductor

OVERHEAD

Neutral bonded
to enclosure
(main bonding
jumper)

Grounding electrode conductor

N
6'-0" max
5'-0" min.
5'-6" preferred (typical)

Remove bonding jumper or screw
contacting enclosure (typical).
Do not bond neutral.

Ground electrode system

Size all grounding and bonding conductors in accordance with NEC.

Figure 4-32. Service entrance grounding and bonding, multi-meter installation with main
breaker ahead, for seven or more meters, with metallic conduits.

UNDERGROUND

Vertical Z mounting brackets (typical)
Horizontal C mounting brackets (typical)
50' max.

Watthour meter
installed by utility

Service disconnect/breaker enclosure
Load
side
Neutral
conductor
N
6'-0" max

METERING

Ground per NEC requirements

1'-0" min.

Ground lug
Test switch
mounting bracket

Neutral bus
bonded to
enclosure
(main bonding
jumper)

Equipment
bonding jumper
Grounding
electrode
conductor

11/4 min.
conduit

6'-0" max
5'-0" min.
5'-6" preferred (typical)
#8 bond wire minimum
A separate lug shall be used unless
listed for multiple conductors
Instrument
Finished 6" min.
transformer cabinet
ground

Splice
can/pullbox

Ground electrode system

Size all grounding and bonding conductors in accordance with NEC.

Figure 4-33. Service entrance grounding and bonding, CT service with non-metallic conduits.

OTHER
92

GENERAL

METERING

Vertical Z mounting brackets (typical)
50' max.

Horizontal C mounting brackets (typical)

Watthour meter
installed by utility

Load
side

N
6'-0" max

Grounding
electrode
conductor

Ground lug
11/4 min.
conduit

Neutral bus
bonded to
enclosure
(main bonding
jumper)

#8 bond wire minimum
Test switch
mounting bracket
6'-0" max
5'-0" min.
5'-6" preferred (typical)

Neutral conductor
1'-0" min.

Ground per NEC
requirements

Instrument
transformer
cabinet

Finished 6" min.
ground

Splice
can/pullbox

Ground electrode

UNDERGROUND

Notes:
1. As an alternate, a continuous bonding jumper can be used to bond service equipment enclosures and conduits.
2. Size all grounding and bonding conductors in accordance with NEC.

Figure 4-34. Service entrance grounding and bonding, CT service with metallic conduits.
50' max.

Watthour meters
installed by utility

Load
side

Ground lug
11/4 min.

6'-0" max
Grounding
electrode
conductor

Ground per NEC requirements

Neutral bus
bonded to
enclosure
(main
bonding
jumper)

#8 bond wire minimum

conduit

Test switch
mounting bracket

Neutral conductor
1'-0" min.

Finished
Instrument
ground 6" min.
transformer cabinet
Ground electrode
system

Grounding
electrode
conductor

6'-0" max
5'-0" min.
5'-6" preferred (typical)

Splice can/pullbox
Neutral bus bonded
to enclosure
(main bonding jumper)

METERING

Service disconnect/breaker enclosure

OVERHEAD

Service disconnect/breaker enclosure

Notes:
1. As an alternate, a continuous bonding jumper can be used to bond service equipment enclosures and conduits.
2. Size all grounding and bonding conductors in accordance with NEC.

OTHER

Figure 4-35. Service entrance grounding and bonding, CT service and self-contained meter,
with metallic conduits.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Current transformer
metering compartment
sealable by the power company

OVERHEAD

Neutral
conductor

Line termination
compartment
(pull section)
sealable by the
power company

Concrete pad
(4" min.)
Equipment
grounding bus
Grounding electrode
conductor

Neutral bus

Main breaker
compartment
Neutral bus bonded
to ground bus
Bonding jumper or screw
grounding enclosure

Ground electrode system

UNDERGROUND

Notes:
1. Grounding electrode conductor connection to ground rod/ supplementary ground system shall be in non-sealable compartment.
Do not install ground rod in-line termination compartment unless approved by the power company.
2. Size all grounding and bonding conductors in accordance with NEC.

Figure 4-36. Service entrance grounding and bonding, metering switchboard with
non-metallic conduits.

METERING
OTHER
94

GENERAL

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

CHAPTER

OVERHEAD

OTHER

METERING

UNDERGROUND

Other Requirements

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Property line

Electrical
transformer lot

OVERHEAD

12" 12"

3'-6"

6'-0"

3'-6"

12" 12"

Property line
CATV
Telephone
Electric

CATV
Telephone
Electric
Sidewalk

Street or roadway
Top View

UNDERGROUND

Curb
Property line
12" 12"

3'-6"

Limit of electrical
transformer Lot
3'-6"

12"

18"

Finish grade at
property line

Side view of services at property line
Telephone

Electric

CATV
Telephone
Electric

METERING

Install utility boxes within the sidewalk area in accordance with city and county requirements.

Figure 5-1. Separation of underground services at the property line.

OTHER
96

GENERAL

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Property line
Electric conduits
(centered at handhole)
3"

Electric

1'-3"

2'-6"

7'-0"
(required)
CL

CATV

OVERHEAD

Property line

Telephone

CL
CL
Curb

UNDERGROUND

Street or roadway
Typical handhole grouping (not to scale)

Figure 5-2. Typical handhole grouping.

Switching and Protection
Service Connection Configurations
Automatic Transfer Equipment – Commercial Service 0 to 600V
METERING

Equipment may be installed to automatically transfer the customer’s load from a deenergized preferred service to an energized alternate service, and to return to the
preferred service either by automatic open transition return, automatic close transition
return, or by manual closed transition return performed by power company workers.
The requirements for either of these optional methods of operation are:
Automatic Transfer with Automatic Open Transition Return

When the preferred service is restored, the equipment must make an automatic-open
transition return to the preferred service after an adjustable time period set by the
utility, from one to ten minutes following restoration of preferred service. However, if
during this time period the alternate service is interrupted, the equipment may make an

OTHER

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

automatic open transition return to the preferred service, without waiting for the
completion of the time delay period, if the preferred service is energized.
The protective and controlling equipment in the preferred and alternate services must be
designed to prevent paralleling the services during automatic transfer in either direction.

OVERHEAD

The transfer equipment should have a Normal-Closed Transition selector switch as
defined in this section, and have suitable interlocks so the customer can not parallel both
services but the utility can parallel both services when necessary to allow a manual
closed transition transfer in either direction. This switch must be sealed with a lock, as
specified by the utility and elsewhere in this manual.
Automatic Transfer with Automatic Close Transition Return
Transfer equipment must automatically transfer the customer’s load from a de-energized
preferred service to an energized alternate service after an adjustable time period set by
the utility, from zero to thirty seconds following interruption of the preferred service.

UNDERGROUND

When the preferred service is restored, the equipment must make an automatic close
transition return to the preferred service after an adjustable time period set by the
utility, from one to ten minutes following restoration of preferred service. However, if
during this time period the alternate service is interrupted, the equipment may make an
automatic open transition return to the preferred service, without waiting for the
completion of the time delay period, if the preferred service is energized.
The automatic close transition return operation must include the closing of the preferred
service, followed by the instantaneous (no time delay) opening of the alternate service.
The transfer equipment should have a Normal-Closed Transition selector switch as
defined in this section, and have suitable interlocks so that the customer can not parallel
both services but the utility can parallel both services when necessary to allow a manual
closed transition transfer in either direction. This switch must be sealed with a lock as
specified by the utility, and elsewhere in this manual.

METERING

Automatic Transfer with Manual Closed Transition Return by the Power Company
Transfer equipment must automatically transfer the customer’s load from a de-energized
preferred service to an energized alternate service after an adjustable time period set by
the utility, from zero to thirty seconds following interruption of the preferred service.
The customer must notify the utility’s load dispatcher as soon as practical whenever the
equipment automatically transfers to the alternate service.

OTHER

The utility will manually make a closed transition transfer of the customer’s load from
the alternate service to the preferred service as soon as feasible after the preferred service
is restored. However, if the alternate service is interrupted, the equipment may make an
automatic open transition return to the preferred service if the preferred service is
energized.
The protective and controlling equipment in the preferred and alternate services must be

interlocked to prevent paralleling the services during automatic transfer in either
direction.

GENERAL

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

OVERHEAD

The transfer equipment should have a Normal-Closed Transition selector switch as
defined in this section, and have suitable interlocks so that the customer can not parallel
both services but the power company can parallel both services when necessary to allow
a manual closed transition transfer in either direction. This switch must be sealed with a
lock as specified by the utility, and elsewhere in this manual.
Additional Requirements

Install automatic transfer equipment in compliance with the applicable requirements in the manufacturer’s manual.

•

The transfer equipment must have provisions for locking or blocking open,
either service, and must have targets to indicate whether each service is Open or
Closed, if this can not be determined by a visible air gap. This requirement is in
addition to the requirements as stated under the Disconnecting Equipment
paragraph in this section: Protective and Controlling Equipment Commercial
Service 2 kV to 15 kV.

•

The transfer equipment must have provisions for changing either service to be
preferred, so the preferred feeder can be changed by the utility.

•

The transfer equipment must be accessible to power company workers at any time.

•

The utility reserves the right to transfer the customer’s load to the alternate
service, and to block the automatic features temporarily to facilitate work or
maintenance on the utility’s system.

•

The customer must obtain permission from the utility’s load dispatcher before
manually transferring to the alternate service.

•

The customer must operate his equipment so it will not produce any adverse
condition on the utility’s system in conformance with the utility’s tariffs.

•

The customer must install bus fault protection to provide automatic transfer
blocking of his facilities in the event of a bus fault.

•

The utility reserves the right to determine if automatic open or close transition
return is applicable to the given installation.

•

All operational testing must be performed by the customer and witnessed by the
utility’s Test Division before the equipment is placed in service.

METERING

•

UNDERGROUND

In addition to the requirements described above, automatic transfer equipment must
comply with the following requirements:

Automatic Transfer Equipment – Commercial Service 2 kV to 15 kV
OTHER

Equipment may be installed to automatically transfer the customer’s load from a deenergized preferred service to an energized alternate service, and to return to the

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

preferred service either by automatic open transition return or by manual closed
transition return performed by power company workers. Automatic closed transition
return is not allowed. The manual closed transition return method may not be available
at all locations on the utility’s system, and this option is offered subject to approval by
the utility. The requirements for either of these optional methods of operation are:
Automatic Transfer with Automatic Open Transition Return

OVERHEAD

Transfer equipment must automatically transfer the customer’s load from a de-energized
preferred service to an energized alternate service after an adjustable time period set by
the utility, from zero to thirty seconds following interruption of the preferred service.
When the preferred service is restored, the equipment must make an automatic open
transition return to the preferred service, after an adjustable time period set by the
utility, from one to ten minutes following restoration of preferred service. However, if
during this time period the alternate service is interrupted, the equipment may make an
automatic open transition return to the preferred service, without waiting for the
completion of the time delay period, if the preferred service is energized.

UNDERGROUND

The protective and controlling equipment in the preferred and alternate services must be
designed to prevent paralleling the services during automatic transfer in either direction.
The transfer equipment should have a Normal-Closed Transition selector switch as
defined in this section and suitable interlocks so that the customer can not parallel both
services but the utility can parallel both services when necessary to allow a manual
closed transition transfer in either direction. This switch must be sealed with a lock as
specified by the utility and elsewhere in this manual.
Automatic Transfer with Manual Closed Transition Return by the Power Company
Transfer equipment must automatically transfer the customer’s load from a de-energized
preferred service to an energized alternate service after an adjustable time period set by
the utility, from zero to thirty seconds following interruption of the preferred service.

METERING

The customer must notify the utility’s load dispatcher as soon as practical whenever the
equipment automatically transfers to the alternate service. The phone numbers to call
are: HECO (808) 543-7466, HELCO (808) 969-6666, MECO (808) 871-7777.
The utility will manually make a closed transition transfer of the customer’s load from
the alternate service to the preferred service as soon as feasible after the preferred service
is restored. However, if the alternate service is interrupted, the equipment may make an
automatic open transition return to the preferred service if the preferred service is
energized.
The protective and controlling equipment in the preferred and alternate services must be
interlocked to prevent paralleling the services during automatic transfer in either
direction.

OTHER

The transfer equipment should have a Normal-Closed Transition selector switch as
defined in this section and suitable interlocks so that the customer can not parallel both
100

services but the utility can parallel both services when necessary to allow a manual
closed transition transfer in either direction. This switch must be sealed with a lock as
specified by the utility and elsewhere in this manual.

GENERAL

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Automatic Transfer Policy for Critical Loads

Primary customers with critical loads (see definition below) are required to provide the
following as a condition of service where necessary.
•

Adequate vault space for the customer’s or utility’s primary automatic transfer
equipment.

•

Pay for the purchase and installation of primary automatic transfer equipment
dedicated to serve their load.

OVERHEAD

Customers may install their own automatic transfer equipment in place of utility’s
primary automatic transfer equipment.

Secondary customers that fit the critical load definitions are required to provide the
following as a condition of service where necessary:
Adequate vault space for the utility’s primary automatic transfer equipment.
UNDERGROUND

•

What is a critical load?
•

Hospitals, vital military installations, communication facilities (television,
common control program stations, civil defense, police, fire), civil defense
control centers, major police stations, refineries, airports, vital navigational aids
(VORTAC, OMEGA, LORAN, etc.), vital gas utility pumping stations, heavy
industry, major shopping centers, large auditoriums, large movie theaters,
stadiums, other facilities that regularly have large numbers of people present
and/or total demand of 500 kVA or more.

•

Any residential building, office building, hotel, retirement home, or other
commercial structure that is equipped with an elevator or electric stairway, and is
more than four stories high, and/or total demand of 1000 kVA or more

METERING

Critical loads include:

Additional Requirements
In addition to meeting the requirements of the above, automatic transfer equipment
must comply with the following:
The transfer equipment must have provisions for locking or blocking open, either
service, and must have targets to indicate whether each service is Open or Closed if
this can not be determined by a visible air gap. This requirement is in addition to the
requirements as stated under the Disconnecting Equipment paragraph in this
section: Protective and Controlling Equipment Commercial Service 2 kV to 15 kV.

•

The transfer equipment must have provisions for changing either service to be
preferred, so that the preferred feeder can be changed by the utility.

OTHER

•

101

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

OVERHEAD

•

The transfer equipment must be accessible to electric power company workers at all
times.

•

The utility reserves the right to transfer the customer’s load to the alternate service
and to block the automatic features temporarily to facilitate work or maintenance on
the utility’s system.

•

The customer must obtain permission from the utility’s load dispatcher before
manually transferring to the alternate service.

•

The customer must operate his equipment so that it will not produce any
adverse condition on the power company’s system in conformance with the
utility’s tariffs.

•

It is highly recommended that the customer install bus fault protection to
provide automatic transfer blocking of his facilities in the event of a bus fault.

Protective and Controlling Equipment – Commercial Service
2 kV to 15 kV
UNDERGROUND

Services Which Can Not Be Fused By 100-Ampere Fuses Or Less
For these services, the customer must provide primary circuit breakers or equivalent
between his equipment and the utility’s source. The protective and controlling
equipment must conform to the following requirements:

METERING
OTHER
102

•

The protective and controlling equipment must be installed as close as feasible to
the power company’s primary service termination.

•

The total clearing time for opening the circuit to the customer’s equipment must
not be slower than the time plotted on the curve as indicated in Figure 5-3.

•

The equipment must have a current rating capable of safely interrupting and
closing into the maximum primary fault current available as specified by the
utility. All equipment is to be rated for nominal 15 kV class operation with a
minimum BIL of 95 kV, except for auxiliary power or potential transformers
which must be rated for operation at the nominal voltage as specified by the
utility.

•

Provision must be made by the customer to safely disconnect and remove the
protective and controlling equipment for maintenance without assistance from
the utility. There must be a visible air gap to give positive indication that service
has been disconnected from the customer.

•

The protective equipment must be equipped with phase(s) and ground relays.

4.0

GENERAL

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

3.0
2.0

OVERHEAD

1.0

.5
.4
TIime in Seconds

.3
.2

UNDERGROUND

.05
.04
.03
.02

.01
100

200

500

1000

2000
1600
Current in Amperes

5000

10000

METERING

Figure 5-3. Time-current curve for a fuse protecting 2 kV to 15 kV services.

Services Which Can Be Fused By 100-Ampere Fuses Or Less
Location
The protective and controlling equipment must be installed as close as feasible to the
utility’s primary service termination.
Time-Current Characteristics
The total clearing time at corresponding current values for opening the circuit to the
customer’s equipment must not be slower than the maximum time plotted on the
standard NEMA curve for 100 ampere Type N fuses.

OTHER

Current and Voltage Rating
The fuses must have a current rating capable of safely interrupting the maximum
103

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

primary fault current available as determined by the utility. The fuses must be rated for
operation at the nominal voltage as specified by the utility.
Type of Fuses
The fuses must be of a type designed for the specific application and location, such as
outdoor or indoor.
Stocking and Replacement

OVERHEAD

Stocking and replacement of fuses must be the responsibility of the customer.
Fused Service from Overhead Source
When services fused by 100 ampere fuses or less are connected to the utility’s overhead
lines, the utility will normally fuse the services to the customer with 100 ampere NEMA
Type N fuses. At many locations, a 40 ampere fuse will be the largest size the customer
can install that will coordinate with the utility’s fuse. Consequently, when the customer
installs fuses of a size from 40 to 100 amperes inclusive, any fault condition which causes
the customer’s fuses to blow, may also blow or damage the utility’s fuses. This may
require the utility to replace its fuses before the customer’s service can be restored.

UNDERGROUND

Two Services
When fuses are installed in each of two services to the customer, switching from one
service to the other must be by open transition.
Future Growth
When the customer chooses to install fuses initially, and his load then increases and is no
longer fusible by 100 ampere fuses, it will be the customer’s responsibility to design,
furnish, and install protective and controlling equipment as specified.

METERING
OTHER
104

Service Connection Configurations – Commercial Service 2 kV to 15 kV

GENERAL

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Interlock

As used here: An electrical or mechanical switch-blocking arrangement which
prevents two services from being paralleled.

Open Transition

Transferring customer’s load from one service to another by opening the first
service before closing the second service.

Closed Transition

Transferring a customer’s load by closing the second service before the first
service is opened.

Normal-Closed
Transition Switch

A control switch which, in the normal position makes the interlock feature
effective, and in the closed-transition position bypasses the interlock to permit
the utility to parallel the two services.

Normally open

Normally closed

OVERHEAD

Definitions and Symbols

Power company

Customer

UNDERGROUND

Table 5-1. Defintions for system protection and control circuits.

The division line between the customer and power company in general
defines the portion of the installation for which the customer is
responsible for ownership and maintenance.
3-Phase overhead line
3-Single conductor primary cables

METERING

Primary cable termination
Circuit breaker or equivalent with disconnecting means
Disconnect switch, non-load break
Disconnect switch, load break
Fused disconnect switch or fuse removable with hotstick

OTHER

Transformer

Table 5-2. Symbols.

105

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Overhead or Underground, Single Source, Single Load

Power company

Customer
M
M

OVERHEAD

Figure 5-4. Protective and controlling equipment for services which can not be fused by 100
ampere fuses or less.

Power company

Customer
M
M

UNDERGROUND

100 Amp max.

Figure 5-5. Protective and controlling equipment for services which can be fused by 100
ampere fuses or less.

For overhead primary services, the utility will, at its expense, furnish and install a single
span of service conductors from its pole or other aerial support to the customer’s first
permanent support, provided such support is of a type and at a location approved by
the utility. Further extensions of power company lines for service outside the customer’s
property will be made in accordance with the utility’s tariff.
METERING

The location of the primary metering point will normally be the first permanent
support inside the customer’s property at which the utility terminates the source. The
instrument transformers will be mounted on this structure by the utility on facilities
provided by the customer.
When the customer’s first point of permanent support is not a feasible metering point,
or if the customer will be metered on the secondary side of his transformer, the
metering will be located at a utility-approved location other than the first permanent
support.

OTHER
106

Overhead, Dual Source, Single Load
Power company

GENERAL

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Customer
M
NC

M
Interlock
M

OVERHEAD

Figure 5-6. Protective and controlling equipment for services which can not be fused by 100
ampere fuses or less.
Power company
100 Amp max.
NC

Customer
Interlock

M
NC

100 Amp
max.

100 Amp max.

UNDERGROUND

Figure 5-7. Protective and controlling equipment for services which can be fused by 100
ampere fuses or less.

Underground, Dual Source, Single Load
Power company

Customer M
NC
M
Interlock
M
NO

Power company

METERING

Figure 5-8. Protective and controlling equipment for services which can not be fused by 100
ampere fuses or less.
Customer
M

100 Amp Max.

M
Interlock
M
NO

100 Amp Max.

Figure 5-9. Protective and controlling equipment for services which can be fused by 100
ampere fuses or less.

OTHER

The preferred fuse location is on the load side of disconnecting switches but it will be
acceptable if fuses are installed on the source side of switches.

107

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

Underground, Dual Source, Dual Load
Power company

Customer
NC

Primary voltage
to customer's load

OVERHEAD

NC
Interlocked to prevent
more than 2 breakers
to be closed at any time.

Figure 5-10. Parallel services.

UNDERGROUND

The tie breakers shown in Figure 5-10 must be as close as practical to the incoming main
breakers. If provision is made for manual closed transition switching by power company
personnel, locate it as close as practical to the incoming main breakers. Any additional
circuit breakers or switches must be installed or interlocked so that it will not be possible
to parallel the power company's two continuously energized services.
The tie breaker shown in Figure 5-10 will not be satisfactory for paralleling the two
services unless the breaker trip elements can be blocked to prevent possible tripping on
parallel current flow during a switching operation.

METERING

The customer must install a single-phase indicating maximum demand ammeter in one
phase of each service, to enable the utility to determine the demand load on each
service. The ammeters must be installed on the load side of the utility’s revenue
metering equipment. The ammeters must be single-range with a 5-ampere full-scale
rating. The ammeters may be switchboard type similar to Lincoln Type AD-2, or socket
mounting type similar to Lincoln Type ADS manufactured by the Sangamo Electric
Company. The customer may install indicating demand watthour meters in each service
in lieu of the ammeters specified above.
Metering requirements for this type of service must be obtained from the utility.
The customer must obtain the approval of the utility to use fuse protection instead of
circuit breakers.

OTHER
108

Utility-Owned Switchgear
Power company

Customer's
property line

GENERAL

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Customer
M
M
Protective equipment

OVERHEAD

Switching equipment
installed and operated
by power company

Figure 5-11. Service connection configuration, with utility owned switchgear.

The switching equipment will be installed by the power company at the customer's
expense on a concrete pad constructed by the customer on the customer's premises at a
location and with accessibility as specified by the power company. A minimum clear
space extending 6 feet in front of the primary switching compartment is required. The
equipment will be locked with a power company lock and switching will be performed
by the power company personnel only. The power company will maintain the switching
equipment. No protective equipment will be provided or permitted to be installed
within the switching equipment. The distance from the switching equipment to the
customer's protective equipment shall not exceed 75 feet.

UNDERGROUND

For installations for which the advantages of a primary rate are desired but the nature of
load does not warrant the cost of customer-owned switchgear, the customer may opt for
utility-owned switchgear.

This option is available only to customers having a maximum demand up to 1000 kVA.
If this option is taken and the demand exceeds 1000 kVA, the customer shall be required,
if requested by the power company, to revise the equipment to meet requirements as
specified in Figure 5-9.
METERING

A terminating pull-section must be provided by the customer in the area of his
protective equipment, in accordance with the requirements of this manual.
Metering must be on the secondary side of the transformer, in accordance with
applicable rate schedules.

Customer Generators
An emergency or standby source may be utilized for times when normal service can not
be provided. Notify the utility prior to installation of emergency or standby sources of
electric service. This applies to all permanent or portable emergency or standby sources
designed to energize the customer’s electrical system.

109

OTHER

The utility allows parallel operation of customer generators on its electrical system, only
with specific agreement with the customer.

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

General requirements for customer generators include:

OVERHEAD
UNDERGROUND

•

A positive acting, UL-listed double-throw switch or transfer device is required.
The switch and its configuration must be approved by the utility prior to
purchase. The switch or transfer device is necessary for opening all ungrounded
conductors from the utility’s normal supply prior to the transfer to the
emergency power source. The double-throw switch or transfer device must be
designed, constructed, and installed so the customer’s emergency power source
does not feed back into the utility’s distribution system.

•

Upon receiving appropriate approvals, submit the building plans to the utility for
review. The plans must include service equipment location, service elevations,
and one-line diagrams. Electrical connections must not be made to the service
entrance conductors or other equipment until the utility has approved the plans.

•

Emergency generators must not be installed in locations where metering facilities
are subject to noise levels in excess of 85 db. Refer to the meter section of this
manual for acceptable meter locations.

•

As prescribed by the National Electrical Code, place a sign at the service entrance
equipment indicating the type and location of the on-site emergency standby
power source.

•

Conductors intended for the emergency or standby power source must not be
installed in the same conduits or raceways as the utility’s service entrance
conductors.

•

The customer provides the utility with a construction and installation schedule,
as soon as possible.

Design and Operating Guidelines

METERING

This section covers general service and metering requirements which apply to generating
systems of 500 kW or less, and operating at less than 600 volts, 60 Hertz. Consult with
the power company for other generating systems.
When the customer plans to operate generators in parallel with the utility's system, the
customer must apply to the utility for permission, and to discuss the detailed requirements that apply to parallel operations. As part of this procedure, the customer submits
single-line diagrams showing the control, protection, and metering functions. Typical
functions to be included are listed below. "Typical" is interpreted as possible functions.
The specific functions actually implemented will be determined by the utility. Typical
functions include:

OTHER
110

•

Synchronizing controls

•

Voltage and frequency controls

•

Over-voltage trip

Under-voltage trip

•

Current unbalance detection and trip

•

Over-current trip

•

Interlocking of main breaker

•

Ground current detection

•

Over-frequency trip

•

Under-frequency trip

•

Energy measurement

•

Demand measurement

•

VARh measurement (when Schedule P applies)

OVERHEAD

•

GENERAL

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Common bus

Utility system

Customer

Revenue
meters

Main
breaker

Local
breaker

UNDERGROUND

Power company

Customer
generation

METERING

Customer
load
Consult with power company
for requirements in this area.

Figure 5-12. Functional diagram of a customer generation installation.

Be extremely cautious when using a portable generator during a power outage, or at any
other time. Never plug a portable generator into a home’s electrical system and attempt
to backfeed power into the home’s electrical panel. This is very dangerous to occupants,
neighbors, and to power company workers. Electricity can back-feed not only into your
own panel, but also out into the company’s power system. Once backfeed reaches
primary lines, it can reach in excess of 12,000 volts.

111

OTHER

Residential Customer Emergency Generators

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

In addition to this safety hazard, you can destroy your generator. Power company crews
routinely use ground clamps for their safety. If your generator tries to feed into this
ground, the amperage drawn on your generator will greatly exceed its design limits.
Furthermore, if the utility re-energizes power while your generator is connected to the
system, the sudden reversal of power flow can destroy your generator.

OVERHEAD

Opening the home’s main breaker does not adequately protect against these risks. The
only safe way to use a portable generator is to plug individual appliances directly into
the generator. This is how it was designed to be used. If you have special needs for backup power during outages, consult a licensed electrician to discuss your options.

Street Lighting
Street Lighting From an Overhead Electrical Source
The customer installs and maintains conductors, conduits, separable connectors, fuse
holders, and fuses between the luminaries and the utility’s overhead secondary lines or
service drop.

UNDERGROUND

All parts of street light service drop, street lamps, and their supporting fixtures
(including rods, braces and guys) must not be less than 1 foot above, or 2 feet below the
level of messenger or conductors supported by messengers.
For street lighting systems in new subdivisions and roadway extensions, the customer
must submit a set of drawings of his street lighting plans to the utility.
Height requirements for pole-mounted street light meter sockets are: 5’ minimum, 6’
maximum, with preferred mounting height of 5’-6" similar to outdoor meters accessible
to pedestrian traffic, as shown in the Metering chapter of this manual.

METERING
OTHER
112

GENERAL

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Vertical plane

Primary 0'-9"

Secondary
conductor level

Vertical clearance less
than 2'-0" allowed outside
2' x 2' clear space

OVERHEAD

2'-0" Horizontal

6'-0"

Centerline of luminaire
2'-0"
2'-6" or 3'-3" nominal
Required clear space
per GO 6 rule 58.2.B.3.A.

UNDERGROUND

Centerline of bracket

OTHER

METERING

Figure 5-13. Street lighting from an overhead electrical source.

113

GENERAL

ELECTRIC SERVICE INSTALLATION MANUAL

18"

Secondary
lines

B
6"

A
A

2"
C

OVERHEAD

D
F
G
J

C
D E F

UNDERGROUND

G
I

A
Customer's luminaire on wood
pole supporting power company's
secondary aerial cable.

B
Customer's luminaire
on pole requiring a service drop.

METERING

A. No. 8 AWG 7-strand aluminum wire, RHW, of sufficient length to splice to the power company’s
lines. Coil the wire at the pole, pending splicing by utility.
B. In the line unfused, insulated separable connector, suitable for No. 8 AWG stranded aluminum wire
on line side, No. 12 copper wire on load side.
C. In the line fuse holder and fuse suitable for No. 8 AWG stranded aluminum wire on line side and
No. 12 AWG copper on load side.
D. No. 12 AWG RHW black, single conductor stranded wire.
E. No. 12 AWG RHW white, single conductor stranded wire
F. 3/4" PVC Schedule 80 conduit.
G. Luminaries and bracket.
H. Aluminum service drop anchor bolt, assembly furnished and installed by customer.
I. Wood pole by customer.
J. Preformed grip by customer.
K. Aluminum service drop by customer.
L. 12" minimum clearance between the light fixture and the utility service conductor. If not possible
when service drop passes over luminaries, the utility will select a splicing point which will provide a
passage to the right or left of luminaries to provide a 12" clearance.

OTHER

Figure 5-14. Street lighting from an overhead electrical source, details.

114

Street Lighting From an Underground Electrical Source

GENERAL

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

Service conduit when secondary
is remote from light post
Variable

Sidewalk

Property line

OVERHEAD

Gutter

Curb
Power company box

Service conduit when secondary
is adjacent to light post

Street light post
Top View

Notes:
The customer provides and installs utility-approved No. 8 AWG Type RHW-USE copper or aluminum
conductors, white neutral, black underground line in 1-inch diameter minimum rigid galvanized steel or ABS or
PVC plastic conduit from fuses in post base to a point 6 inches from power company secondary conductors.
Allow sufficient length for splice and coil at trench end of conduit. The ABS or PVC plastic conduit may be
either type DB for direct buried, or type EB for encasement in a minimum of 3 inches of concrete.
The customer shall consult the power company to determine the point of connection to the power company's
secondary conductors.
When splices cannot be made during installation of the power company's secondary conductors, run the
street light conductors to nearest service tail.

OTHER

METERING

Figure 5-15. Service conduit for street lighting.

UNDERGROUND

Service conduit
when secondary is
across street

115

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ESIM Summary Rev 3 Electric Service Installation Manual

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