Article 700.12 On-site fuel supply for genset

[mshields]

I'm doing an ambulatory surgery center and we'd like to go with a natural gas generator.

NEC 700.12 does not permit this unless sanctioned by the AHJ based on a low probability of a simultaneous failure of both the off-site fuel delvery and power from the elec utility.

It strikes me that this low likelyhood of having both go out at the same time is almost always the case except perhaps in earthquake prone area's. Frankly, I'm trying to frame my argument to allow the gas unit.

Any suggestions? If you think that a gas generator is a bad idea for our EPS, then I welcome that input as well.

Thanks,

Mike

 

[benaround]

Mike,

We did some Fire Stations , allthough different from your situation similar, they installed

a good sized Propane tank on site for their generator(s).

 

[don_resqcapt19]

You could install an on-site compressed natural gas storage tank and a small compressor to provide the required on-site supply.

 

[hardworkingstiff]

People don't take into account that diesel indeed has a shelf life and requires maintenance (testing, polishing, etc.). With today?s cracking methods, diesel can degrade faster than it did years ago. Maybe you can use the argument that gas requires less maintenance and is actually more reliable? I like the idea of a natural gas or propane tank for some on site storage.

Good luck.