I guess I should have mentioned I am in Massachusetts and National Grid and Eversource don't provide them
Do they supply meter/main-breaker units? I've only seen straight meter bases.
I contacted Milbank just a few days ago for the same reason. Send them an e-mail and they'll get back to you with some info on availability.
I feel your pain.
If they ever have shortage of their own (they probably buy them in large quantities) you might end up being responsible for supplying them, but they may also still have strict specifications on what they will accept or no energizing the service.
I'm in PSE&G territory in NJ, and they have a strange policy. If you want a 200A service, you have to provide the meter pan yourself, purchased per their spec. If you want to put a 320A service on the house, they will give you a meter pan. Guess which choice I'm making for my house...
Do they say anything about putting their 320 can up but only run 100 amp conductors or even 30 or 60 amp where you otherwise may be allowed?
That may be the next step I just think it doesnt look as good as a single unit but oh well
Aren't those somewhat difficult to get lately as well?
My local HDs have them in stock for $165:
You have to have a 320A service, as far as they're concerned. They come put in a 320A meter, even though a 200A meter physically fits. That's what I'm doing on my house (if the permit ever gets issued); 320A meter pan, 400A fused disconnect with 300A fuses, and two 200A breaker panels with mains. PSE&G inspector wants the 300A fuses, or it gets classified as a 400A service; that would mean CT metering. Funny, as he's already told me they won't upgrade the #2AL overhead service drop, no matter what size service I install. Those 300kcmil service conductors are going to look awfully funny bugged onto the #2 service drop.
Then on top of that they maybe have 300 feet of that #2 before they get to source or some other larger conductor? Talk about severe voltage drop when the AC compressor starts up. Don't care if it is only a 100 amp service either, it still not large enough for VD reasons.
I'm likely going to have to complain at some point; I have 8kw of solar, and voltage rise is a concern, leading to clipping on my inverters on bright days. Good news is, I have the contact info of someone who can actually help, instead of the clueless folks answering the phone.
But it certainly reduces fault current
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Yes.But it certainly reduces fault current
