Off grid minimum code generator size for shop

Status
Not open for further replies.
M

maven

Member
Location
Indiana
A customer wants a permanent generator installed for his 32 x 40 shop. The shop is so far from the road and around water so it would cost him thousands just to get utility power to the shop. This shop will only be used for general purposes and storage. Maybe a circular saw run every now and then. I am planning on 1 circuit for lights and 4 circuits for general purpose receptacles. And I will have this run by an LP generator.

My question is do I need to have a minimum of 60amp service for this pole building? The code says in 225.39D that "all other structures" need a minimum of 60 amp main breaker. If so, then I will need a 60amp producing generator right? Around 15kw or so depending on the manufacturer I imagine.

Or...

Can I install any size generator the customer wants because the 225.39D code only applies to utility power?

Thanks for your help.

Maven
 
Because POCO need not set a meter for this building, no formal inspection is required. We're it me, I'd meet the code requirement so in the event they ever want commercial power, nothing need be redone. Then install whatever generator you want, and protect it's feeder conductors with the appropriate over current protection. Everybody should then be happy.
 
OldSparks said:
Because POCO need not set a meter for this building, no formal inspection is required.
Click to expand...

Huh??? Where do you get that info from? Just because a building does not have a POCO meter doesn't mean it is exempt from inspection or complying with the NEC.
 
Just because the NEC requires a 60 service disconnect doesn't meant the supply has to be rated for 60 amps. You could feed the 60 amp service disconnect with 30 amps and still comply.
 
curt swartz said:
Huh??? Where do you get that info from? Just because a building does not have a POCO meter doesn't mean it is exempt from inspection or complying with the NEC.
Click to expand...
My reading of the OP is that this is an existing building. If the job is to install a panel, some outlets, and lights, is a permit actually being pulled? I kinda doubt it. Hence my reply, COMPLY with the code, and install whatever generator the owner wants to pay for.

Do you not agree with that?
 
OldSparks said:
My reading of the OP is that this is an existing building. If the job is to install a panel, some outlets, and lights, is a permit actually being pulled? I kinda doubt it. Hence my reply, COMPLY with the code, and install whatever generator the owner wants to pay for.
Click to expand...


In my area and I bet in the OPs area as well, if a building has wiring being installed it needs a permit and inspections.


Even if we somehow forgot to pull the permit, :angel: the installation itself would be done in NEC compliance.
 
maven said:
My question is do I need to have a minimum of 60amp service for this pole building? The code says in 225.39D that "all other structures" need a minimum of 60 amp main breaker. If so, then I will need a 60amp producing generator right? Around 15kw or so depending on the manufacturer I imagine.
Click to expand...

Mount a generator inlet back to back with the panel, connected to the line terminals of the main breaker panel (anything convenient from 60A to 200A), and be done.
 
Inspections/permit requirements depend on local rules where the installation is. In rural areas like the OP apparently is there may be more relaxed rules then is common in cities.

I can wire a 20,000 square foot building on a farm and no wiring permits are required. I can wire a 100 square foot drive thru coffee house though and POCO will not energize the service until they have proof of an electrical permit being filed.
 
This county is extremely relaxed about permits and inspections. No electrical permits required. This county does not do licensing or bonding. And no county electrical inspections. Don't ask me why. :)
 
Status
Not open for further replies.
Top