Stacking meters

[egurdian3]

Here's a wild thought: Is there an NEC article that would prohibit building a platform/mezzanine to access a meter stack, inside of a dedicated electrical room?
That is, meter stack on the floor, platform with steps/ladder to access the ?pstairs" meter bank.
The reason is as you may have guessed, the architect thinks they can fit electrical equipment in a broom closet; kind of like the "Magic trick"" post.

 

[kwired]

Here's a wild thought: Is there an NEC article that would prohibit building a platform/mezzanine to access a meter stack, inside of a dedicated electrical room?
That is, meter stack on the floor, platform with steps/ladder to access the ?pstairs" meter bank.
The reason is as you may have guessed, the architect thinks they can fit electrical equipment in a broom closet; kind of like the "Magic trick"" post.

This equipment likely needs to be "readily accessible". That means portable means of access are not allowed but permanent stairs or ladders are acceptable. 110.26 working clearances are still required on the platform once you have reached the platform.

 

[don_resqcapt19]

The location of the meter is covered by utility company rules.

 

[kwired]

The location of the meter is covered by utility company rules.

Utility likely has a say in meter location otherwise they can refuse to connect the service. If the contractor installs the metering equipment NEC still applies, if utility installs it likely is outside AHJ's jurisdiction.

If this "meter stack" also contains overcurrent devices then it is more than just metering equipment, it most likely is or at least contains the service disconnecting means.

 

[don_resqcapt19]

It is their cash register and under their control no matter who provides and installs it. In my opinion the meter itself is outside the scope of the NEC. That changes if it is a combo and also contains the service disconnects.

 

[kwired]

It is their cash register and under their control no matter who provides and installs it. In my opinion the meter itself is outside the scope of the NEC. That changes if it is a combo and also contains the service disconnects.

I have opened a few and never found any cash in them Otherwise I agree with you.