An easy comparison is a panelboard in an electrical closet. Many AHJ will pass if there is Code required work clearance with the door open.Maybe...it is a fact that he does not quote a specific violation.
Neverthless it seems that burden of proof is on my shoulders :weeping:
Do you have any reference of MV switchgears installed in shelters e.g. in photovoltaic plants, in the US?
I do not think in compact shelters you can found a 4ft clearance in rear, since you can simply open a door of the shelter if you need to work on incomer cables.