Reduce service rating based on metered demand?

[iggy2]

We are working on 2 electric service equipment replacements, rated 1,200 and 1,600 amperes. The billed maximum demands over 12 months are 245 and 252 kVA (680 and 700 amperes). The ceiling height in the basements where the switchgear is located is 90", so typical gear will not fit, even if set on the floor, much less on a pad.

Is it reasonable to propose to the AHJ that the replacement equipment be rated less than existing, say 800 amperes, based on the 12 month max demand? See 220.87 which would allow me to use the max demand for additions to the service; but it does not address sizing of a service based on measured demand...

 

[dkidd]

I would expect that you would have to have service calculations to support your proposed service size.

 

[iggy2]

I would expect that you would have to have service calculations to support your proposed service size.

But I have the actual demand....

 

[jumper]

I do not see where you could not use 220.87 for sizing.

125% of existing load + new load, just because new load is 0A does not preclude use of this section IMO.

 

[iggy2]

just because new load is 0A does not preclude use of this section IMO.

Great point. That is the way to present it to AHJ. Thanks.

 

[ptonsparky]

Why are you putting in equipment that is not needed?

 

[jumper]

Why are you putting in equipment that is not needed?

?????

Op said:

We are working on 2 electric service equipment replacements

 

[iggy2]

Why are you putting in equipment that is not needed?

The equipment is old, manufactured by FPE and has not been maintained per NFPA 70, so it is ripe for replacement. One CB failed several months ago, and it left an entire apartment building of 8 units without power for 3 days while a compatible breaker was found. (It should not have taken that long, but it did...)