2013 electric service handbook

8/13/2019 2013 Electric Service Handbook

1/87


2/87


3/87

This handbook supersedes all prior issues of Electric Service Installation Handbooks issued by SWEPCO.

General Information 4

Residential Service 8

Portable/Standby Generators 17

Temporary Service 20

Commercial Service 24

Metering 31

Clearances 52

Drawing Speci cations 63

Glossary 84

Service Voltage Quick Reference 86


4/87

I

4

NTRODUCTION

This informational handbook is issued by AEP / Southwestern Electric Power Company

(SWEPCO) for the guidance of Customers, Engineers, Architects, Contractors and other interested partiesplanning electrical installations for residential buildingsand commercial establishments. The information andrecommendations set forth herein are, in general,suf cient to answer questions concerning a majorityof the installations within its scope. The Company willbe pleased to assist with any questions or concernsnot covered by this handbook.

When planning electrical installations for largercommercial or industrial establishments, it will benecessary for the Engineer, Architect, or ElectricalContractor to contact the Company for detailedinformation on service requirements.

Codes All customer owned equipment shallbe installed in accordance with therequirements of the latest revisionof the National Electric Code(NEC), or of any Federal, State,County or Municipal laws or statutesthat may be in effect for governingelectrical installations in the area where theinstallation is made. The Customer, Engineer,

Architect, and Electrical Contractor shouldascertain that such requirements are met.

The National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), the NECand various Federal, State, County and MunicipalOrdinances are based on the prevention of hazards tolife and property. They are not intended to mean thatan electrical installation, made in accordance with suchrules and regulations, is adequate for the customer'spresent or future electric service.

This handbook contains SWEPCOs requirements forelectrical service. It is the customers responsibility toensure the project complies with the most recent issueof the NEC and any other federal, state, or local codesthat apply. The requirements set forth herein are notnecessarily complete facility or safety speci cations.Rather they cover matters of mutual concern to theCustomer and the Company, which facilitate the

supplying of electric service. The requirements aresubject to revision from time to time without noti cationso that they keep pace with developments and

progress in the electric industry. Compliance withthese requirements does not absolve the Customerfrom the obligation to install and maintain wiring andequipment in a safe condition; also, the Company doesnot accept any responsibility for the quality or conditionof the Customer's wiring or equipment. An electricalinstallation should not only be capable of serving theelectrical devices of today in an ef cient, safe, andconvenient manner, but the Customer should providecircuits and circuit capacity for future load growth.

InspectionsOnce the customers service equipment is installed,the state, county/parishes, or the city with jurisdiction,

requires that the installation pass an electricalinspection before SWEPCO can complete the

connection to the electrical system. Thecustomer is responsible for requesting and

passing this inspection in the locationswhere inspections are required.

Service Characteristics All voltages supplied by the

Company are nominal alternatingcurrent at a frequency of 60 Hertz. As

the voltage and the number of phases whichwill be supplied depend upon the character

of the load as well as its size and location, it isnecessary for the Customer to consult the Company

regarding the type of service which will be furnishedbefore proceeding with the purchase of equipment orthe installation of wiring.

Residential Service will be supplied single-phasethree-wire, nominally 120/240 volts, or where availableor needed, in a network, three-wire, nominally 120/208volts. See pages 7 and 8 for more information onresidential service.

Commercial Service The secondary distribution available to serve commercialand industrial load may be a three-wire, single-phasesystem, three-wire, three-phase system or four-wire,three-phase system. The Company should always beconsulted in regard to the exact characteristics of the


5/875

the service that will be available. See pages 7 and 24for more information on commercial service.

Metering All services requested by the Customer shall bemetered for energy consumption, except for dusk todawn lights and other special services covered undera tariff containing provisions for optional un-metered

service. A Commercial Customer, depending on load,may require demand and reactive metering. Time-of-use metering may be available depending on theCustomer load and tariff. Refer to page 31 for moredetailed information on metering electrical loads.

Meter LocationThe customer must install the meter socket where itwill be accessible to utility personnel. Meter socketlocations are subject to approval by a representative ofSWEPCO. The service entrance will be so arrangedthat the Company can measure the Customer's entireservice with one meter, unless otherwise speci ed inthe Company's rate tariff schedule.

The requirements for a properly located meter socketare:

It must be mounted outside the building between4 and 6 feet above nal grade

No trees or shrubs shall be planted in front of themeter

It shall not be located above the rst story level or

below the basement level of a building The location shall be such that it will not interferewith traf c, sidewalks or driveways nor obstruct theopening of doors and windows

On a residence, it should be located on the frontone-third closest to normal public access

It should be located in an area that is not subject tobeing fenced, such as patios, decks, porches, andbackyards or any area with restricted public access

It must be located on a structure that is owned bythe customer

For overhead service, it should not be located morethan 70 feet from the SWEPCO pole

The reasons for these requirements are:

So meter readers can read the meter in a safe andcost effective manner

So SWEPCO can ef ciently maintain the meter So utility employees can stay out of the customers

backyard If there is a re or other disaster, SWEPCO can

disconnect service

Service Location IdentificationIt is the customers responsibility to prominently displaymunicipal street addresses, building numbers, apart-ment numbers etc, in order for SWEPCOs servicepersonnel to quickly and easily identify the properlocation for providing service. This includes restora-tion of power due to an outage as well as connectingnew services. The Customer must clearly display

their of cial 911 address. The numerical portion ofthe address is all that is needed. The address shouldbe made with minimum 3 inch tall, peel and stick re-

ective numerals posted in a location that is visiblefrom the nearest road or street. Having the ability topositively identify a service location at night is criticalfor SWEPCO service personnel.

Where a building or structure is supplied by more thanone service a permanent plaque or directory shall beinstalled at each service disconnect location denotingall other services supplying that building or structureand the area served by each as required by the NEC.

Access to Customers Premises SWEPCOs authorized agents and employees shall

have access to the customers premises, only tothe extent needed by SWEPCO for access to itsproperty.

SWEPCOs authorized agents and employeesshall have access at all reasonable hours for thepurposes necessary in connection with supplyingand maintaining electric service.

SWEPCOs authorized agents and employees shallhave access to the customer's premises and upontermination of service shall be permitted to removeany or all such property.

Author ized SWEPCO employees visi ting thepremises of the customer for any purposes areto be furnished with an identi cation card. Thecustomer shall refuse admission to persons nothaving proper identi cation.

Extension of Company's FacilitiesThe Company will extend its facilities to provide servicein accordance with the provisions of its tariffs on lewith each state's Public Service Commission or PublicUtility Commission. When the Customer requests theCompany to deliver energy in a manner or locationother than that designated by the Company, theCustomer will be required to pay the additional costs.The Company will be pleased to discuss its terms andconditions for the extension of facilities upon request.


6/876

Installation and Responsibility It is necessary for the protection of the Customer that allwork, wiring and apparatus be installed and maintainedin a safe manner by a licensed electrician or quali edparty. The Customer, in accepting service from theCompany, assumes full responsibility for the safety ofthe wiring and apparatus which the Customer installs.

The Customer shall not operate any apparatus whichcreates a condition that interferes with the Company'soperation and prevents the Company from supplyingsatisfactory service to the Customer or to otherCustomers. This condition includes, but is not limited to,operating equipment that interferes with the satisfactoryoperation of other Customer's radio, television, andcommunication equipment. The Company reservesthe right to place restriction on the type and manner ofuse of all the Customer's electrical equipment which isconnected to the Company's lines, especially prohibitingany large loads of highly uctuating or low power factorcharacteristics.

Customer Alterations and AdditionsThe Company's facilities used to provide service havede nite capacity limitations and can be damaged byoverloads. Therefore, the Customer must notify theCompany prior to making alteration to the service en-trance equipment so that facilities of proper capacity maybe provided. The Customer shall be responsible for allexpenses and/or damages to the Customer's facilitiesand to the Company's facilities resulting from failure to

give proper notice. The Customer may also be subjectto charges by the Company for work required to meetthe Customer's alteration. The Customer should con -tact the Company for information concerning chargesfor such work.

Application for Electric Service Application for electric service to either a new installa-tion, or a revision of a service for an existing installation,must be made to and accepted by the Company beforeservice will be supplied. Application can be made bycontacting the Company and should be made as far inadvance as possible of the date service is required. TheCustomer must consult the Company for informationconcerning the point of attachment of the Company'sservice facilities to the Customer's building, the locationof the meter, characteristics of the service and otherpertinent matters before proceeding with the installationof the service.

Before the Customer calls SWEPCO's Customer Solu -tions Center, it is important to know questions that arelikely to be asked and be ready to respond with answers

so the delivery of service will be a smooth and expedi-ent process.

In addition to personal identifying information, generalquestions asked of every Customer, a Customer So -lutions Center representative may ask for businessnames, contact names (such as electricians and generalcontractors) and corresponding phone numbers whenthe Customer is not the primary contact.

Requesting New ServiceBefore the process begins to install the new service,the customer must contact SWEPCO and requeststhat a service order be created. Service orders provideSWEPCOs eld personnel with the information theyneed to provide permanent service.

The request for new service can be made at the sametime a billing account is established, or when calling toconvert a temporary service to a permanent service.

The Customer must provide the location where electricservice is needed. A 911 address is required for all newservice locations. Please contact the local 911 agencyand request an address for the new service locationprior to calling SWEPCO. Turn by turn directions mayalso be requested.

Even though a Customer may already have an ac-count established with the Company, all requests by aCustomer that will require construction of facilities by

the Company must rst be initiated by the CustomerSolutions Center. The Customer Solutions Center rep-resentative enters the Customer's information into theCompany's electronic database which routes the requestthrough all required departments until construction hasbeen completed. Failure to make a request throughthe Customer Solutions Center will result in a delay ofservice.

In addition to contact information, the Customer may beasked the following general questions.

Are there existing SWEPCO facilities at the servicelocation?

Are the existing facilities overhead or underground? How far away from the new service location are the

existing power facilities? Is the new service temporary or permanent? What date will the new service be required? What is the new service for (home, barn, shop,

business, etc)? See below for additional informationon Residential Services and Commercial Services


7/877

Residential ServicesWhen the Customer requests service for a new home,it is important to note:

What is the square footage of the new home? Is the home to be total electric? How many tons of air conditioning? Is there electric or gas heat?

Is there electric water heating? Is overhead or underground service desired? What size is the service entrance main breaker? Who is the electrician?

Commercial ServicesWhen the Customer requests service to a newcommercial property, much more information is required.

What is the square footage of the building? Is the building total electric? How many tons of air conditioning? Is there electric or gas heat? Is there cooking equipment? Who is the electrician? What is the service voltage? Will the service be single or three phase? What is the rating of the main breaker? What is the service entrance conductor size? How many conductors are there per phase? Will the load be self contained or current transformer

metered? Is overhead or underground service desired?

Are there any signi cant or unusual electric loads? Motor loads, single or three phase?

Detailed Service Requirements Additional details are covered in depth in this handbook.

For Residential Service requirements, please turn topage 8.

For Temporary Service requirements, please turn topage 20.

For Commercial Service requirements, please turn topage 24.

For detailed requirements on Metering , please turn topage 31.

Are you are about to start construction of a new home,business, remodeling a home, or adding a swimmingpool? Do you simply want to install a new sign for yourbusiness but don't know if you have the necessary spaceavailable on your lot? You should review Clearances

that you need to maintain from electric power facilities.These requirements begin on page 52.

Other Drawing Specifcations detail the requirementsspeci c to the construction of facilities needed to deliverelectric power to the Customer. Please turn to page 63for more information about these speci cations.

Cost to serve Customer Depending upon the scope of the extension required toprovide the service, the Customer may be required topay some or all of this expense.

Temporary services will almost always result in a chargefor the service. The cost will vary on a case by casebasis.

When the Customer is required to pay SWEPCO fora service, that payment is required to be paid up frontprior to start of construction.

Other ServicesSWEPCO supports alternative fuels and generation.Interconnectivity of alternative generation is not coveredin this handbook. Please see the appropriate link on theCompany's web site for additional information.

Structures Near Overhead LinesStructures, including signs, agpoles, light standards,antennas or aerials shall not be installed under, over, ornear such lines where they cannot be safely maintained.

Customer owned equipment shall not be attached to aSWEPCO pole or any poles used in supplying electricservice to the customer. Refer to the Clearance sectionbeginning on page 52 of this handbook for furtherinformation and requirements. Figure 4.8 is a pictorialrepresentation of the required clearances and can befound on page 62.

Attachments to SWEPCO Owned FacilitiesUnder no conditions will the customers facilities beinstalled on or attached to SWEPCOs poles or otherproperty unless special arrangements have been madewith the Company.

Contacting Other UtilitiesNew construction typically involves the installation oftelephone cables, cable television cables and naturalgas lines, as well as power cables. It is the customersresponsibility to notify each utility, which will provideservice to the home. Check the local phone book fortheir numbers. For each utility, note the contact nameand phone number, and let each utility know which otherutilities will be providing new service.


8/87

I

8

NTRODUCTION

This section contains information regardingnew electric service for permanent single-

family residential structures. It also includes helpfulinformation from the National Electrical Code (NEC),and the requirements for service to outbuildings suchas barns, shops, pump houses, garages, portablebuildings, etc.

The residential service section answers commonquestions, such as:

Where should the meter socket be installed? How tall does the service mast have to be? What does the customer have to do to get

underground service? How are existing underground utilities located

before digging starts?

The answers to these and many otherquestions can be found within these pages.

If temporary electric service isneeded while a residence is beingconstructed, see Temporary Service on page 21.

If you are planning a residentialdevelopment or a subdivision, pleasebe prepared to provide an engineered siteplan of the development. An electronic leof the plan is needed to expedite the design ofutilities. This le can be sent by e-mail to SWEPCO'sEngineering Department. Installation of undergroundelectric distribution facilities will require the owner/developer to sign a contract for service. Please makea request for service by calling SWEPCO's CustomerSolutions Center.

(888) 216-3523

For information regarding the installation of permanentservice for multifamily and nonresidential services suchas commercial buildings, condominium complexes,apartment buildings, and mobile home parks, seeCommercial Service on page 25.

Getting Started Installing new electrical service to a home is a jointproject between SWEPCO, the customer, their

contractor and architect.

Through this coordinated effort, the customers load andservice voltage requirements will be met. SWEPCO will

need detailed information on service requirements aswell as the layout for the project.

Setting Up an Account The rst step toward new electric service is to establishan account with SWEPCO.

Before SWEPCO can begin working on a project,a billing account must be established. To set up anaccount, to get answers to general billing questions,and to have service hooked up, a customer must callSWEPCOs Customer Solutions Center.

(888) 216-3523

A representative will request general billinginformation, discuss fees, and the address for

the new service. New addresses can beobtained from the local 911 authority.

Service Voltages AvailableSeveral sizes of services are

available for single-family residen-tial structures, and for outbuildings.

The size of service depends upon the sizeof the home and the power requirements of

the equipment installed in it. SWEPCO doesnot determine the customers power requirements.

A 3-wire 100 Amp rating is the minimum size allowed for residential services. Please see the chartbelow for typical services.

RESIDENTIAL SERVICE


9/879 RESIDENTIAL SERVICE

Mobile Homes, Manufactured Homes, and Manufactured BuildingsThe meter and service equipment for a Mobile Home,Manufactured Home, and Manufactured Building shallbe located adjacent to and not mounted in or on theMobile Home, Manufactured Home, and ManufacturedBuilding. The service equipment shall be located inplain view and not more than 30 feet from an exterior

wall of the Manufactured Building, Mobile Home, orManufactured Home it serves. See Meter Poles onpage 15.

Removing and Installing MetersOnly personnel who are quali ed and authorized bySWEPCO are permitted to remove and install meters.In special circumstances, exceptions may be granted toquali ed electrical contractors by contacting SWEPCOsMeter Department, Service Center Supervisor, or adesignated representative. Note: With some types of

meter sockets, removal of the meter does not de- energize the system. See Metering on page 31 foradditional information.

Underground Service or Other Customer Owned Equipment LocatesUnderground services are owned and maintainedby the customer. SWEPCO does not locate orrepair underground services. A qualified electricalcontractor will be able to provide locates and repairs forunderground services.

Underground Utility LocatesTwo working days (48 hours excluding weekends andholidays) prior to any trenching or excavation worknear underground utilities such as gas, water, electric,telephone or cable television, the person doing this workis required to call for underground utility locates througha one call system. This is required by law. The addressor location where the work will be done is given to theone call service and from there it is routed to each utilityto perform the locate and marking using spray paint. You

may call the national call number. There is no chargefor this service.

When calling to request an underground locate, it is bestto use the closest 911 address to the location wherethe digging will be done. In some areas, not all utilitiesare members of the One Call System. In those areasthe customer must contact the utilities individually, forexample: some local water companies. SWEPCO doesnot locate customer owned facilities.

The state has established a color code system to identifyeach utility so everyone can see what has been located.The color codes are:

COLOR UTILITY

Red.................Electric Yellow.............Gas/Oil Orange...........Telephone/Cable TV Blue................Water Purple.......... .. .Water, reclaimed, irrigation Green...... .. ... .. .Sewer

White..............Proposed facilities

Any digging within 24 inches of either side ofthe location markings must be done by hand.

Outbuildings An outbuilding is a stand-alone structure which is locatedon residential property and is not a living space. Typicaloutbuildings are barns, pump houses, garages, shops,etc. To install a separate service to an outbuilding,the customer must provide a clear path to SWEPCOs

equipment, a properly located meter socket and theservice equipment required in the NEC. The metersocket is installed by the customer. A 3-wire 100 Amprating is the minimum size allowed for residentialservices. For manufactured buildings see page 15and page 16.

Cost for ServiceDepending upon the scope of the extension required toprovide the service, the Customer may be required topay some or all of this expense.

When the Customer is required to pay SWEPCO fora service, that payment is required to be paid up frontprior to start of construction.


10/87

Overhead or Underground ServiceThere are two types of electrical service available -overhead and underground. Underground service isavailable to everyone. Overhead service is availableif local ordinances allow it and overhead facilities arepresent. It is the customers responsibility to be awareof any applicable local codes and ordinances. Thecustomer may be responsible for charges incurred to

provide service.

To determine if the electrical system already installed inthe area is overhead or underground, check the facilitiesin your area. If the power system is overhead, a seriesof poles similar to Figure 1.1 will be visible. If the powersystem is underground, there will be items like those inFigures 1.2 and 1.3.

RESIDENTIAL SERVICE 10

SERVICE MAST GUY (AS REQUIRED) WEATHERHEAD

SERVICE ENTRANCE CONDUCTOR

SPLICE (POINT OF DELIVERY)

TRANSFORMER

POWER POLE

SERVICE LINE(TYPICALLY 70 FEET

OR LESS)SERVICE PANELSERVICE MAST

METER

METER SOCKET

1 / 12 / 2010

FIGURE 1.4

FIGURE 1.1 FIGURE 1.2 FIGURE 1.3

If the system is overhead, and the new service will beoverhead, the requirements for Overhead Services canbe found on page 11. For a typical overhead servicecon guration, see Figure 1.4 below.

If the system is overhead, but the new service will beunderground, or if the system is underground, refer toUnderground Services on page 14.

For help determining which type system is installed, callSWEPCO for assistance with the following:

Determining a point of service Determining if construction by SWEPCO is required Determining if a right of way easement is required What construction is required by the customer What may be required by local governmental

agencies What costs, if any, will be involved


11/87RESIDENTIAL SERVICE

OVERHEAD SERVICE

General RequirementsThe following checklist will assist in preparing for theinstallation of overhead service. After the customer hascompleted these items, SWEPCO will install the serviceline and meter.

Check if any local ordinances or covenants preventthe installation of an overhead service

Determine an acceptable location for the metersocket. See the General Information section onpage 5.

Verify with SWEPCO where the service line willoriginate

Provide a clear path from SWEPCOs pole to thecustomers service mast

Install the service equipment Install the service entrance conductors with a

minimum 24 inches left exposed at the weatherhead Verify that the service mast height requirements

have been met Have the city or state inspect the installation, if

required 911 address visibly displayed Call SWEPCOs Customer Solutions Center to have

service connected

(888) 216-3523

Getting Started The rst step when installing new overhead service is tocontact SWEPCO and ask for a point of service. Next,determine the location of the meter socket. The metersocket should be located outside, on the front one-thirdof the structure closest to normal public access. See theGeneral Information section on page 5.

Another factor to consider when choosing the location forthe meter socket is what types of terrain the line will becrossing. Whenever possible, avoid service line routesthat cross a driveway. Service lines crossing driveways

can be hit by vehicles and cause damage to serviceequipment, and even to the home.

If the service line will be passing through any trees,the customer must prune those trees to provide a clearpath for the service line. SWEPCO does not trim orremove trees or tree limbs from overhead services.The customer is also responsible for regular tree

pruning and, if necessary, tree removal to keep the path clear. The point of delivery for overhead serviceis the connector at the customers weatherhead.

11

Service Mast Requirements A service mast is a conduit that runs vertically from thetop of the meter socket. See Figure 4.1 on page 54. Itcontains service entrance conductors and supports oneend of the service line. Service masts are necessarywhen installing an overhead service, and are installedby the customer or the electrical contractor. Therequirements for the installation of a service mast are

covered in the NEC. Speci c requirements for overheadservice masts are described next.

Height RequirementsThe top of a service mast must be at least 13 feet above

nal grade, to maintain minimum clearances over theproperty. Additional height may be required dependingupon the location and type of structure or terrain overwhich the service line passes. Figures 1.6 and 1.7 onpage 12 illustrate some of the minimum clearances thatmust be maintained.

If the service mast extends through the roof, the NECalso requires that minimum clearances be maintainedabove the roof. The clearance required depends uponthe slope of the roof, mast height, and roof overhang.Figure 1.8 and 1.9 on page 13 details clearancesrequired when the service line is attached to the servicemast. A service mast of minimum 2" rigid steel or IMCconduit may be used on low roof structures to obtainproper ground clearance for service drops. For otheroptions and details consult the NEC.

Service lines passing over the roof of another structure,but not attached to that structure, must meet clearancesshown in Figure 4.6 on page 60. Service lines passingnear a swimming pool must meet clearances shown inFigure 4.5 on page 59.

Service Equipment Installation Requirements After determining the meter socket location, the serviceroute, the height of the service mast, and the size of theservice equipment, installation of the service equipmentcan begin.

The service entrance weatherhead should be no morethan 70 Feet from the SWEPCO pole.

The service equipment should be surface mounted, asshown in Figure 4.1 on page 54.


12/8712

FIGURE 1.7

FIGURE 1.6

GENERAL:Service drop cables of 750 volts or less shall not pass closer than 3 feet

in any direction from windows, doors, porches, re escapes or similarlocations (except above top level of a window)NESC 234C3d (2)

NOTES:1. NESC required vertical clearance for service over pedestrian way.2. NESC required vertical clearance for service over residential drive-

way not subject to truck traf c.3. NESC required vertical clearance for service over parking lot or non-

residential driveway subject to truck traf c.4. Required vertical clearance of service drip, including drip loop, over

roof where less than 6' of conductors overhang the roof and termi-nate at an approved through-the-roof raceway.

EXCEPTIONS TO NOTES 1 & 2Prior approval by SWEPCO representative is required before exceptionsmay be used. Where height of a building or other installation does notpermit service drops to meet these values they may be reduced to thefollowing:1. Over pedestrian traf c way2. Over residential driveway

120/240 VOLT

SINGLE PHASE,120/208 VOLT3-PHASE WYE

120/240 VOLT SINGLE PHASE

12 ft

16 ft

16 ft

18 in

12 ft

16 ft

16 ft

18 in

12 ft

16 ft

16 ft

18 in

10 ft12 ft

10 ft12 ft

12 ft16 ft

These values meet the 2007 Edition of the National Electric Safety Code Rules.

RESIDENTIAL SERVICE

TRANSFORMER

POWER POLE

SERVICE LINE(TYPICALLY 70 FEET

OR LESS)

1 / 12 / 2010

12 FEET 16 FEETDRIVEWAY


13/87


14/8714

Additional Mast Supports Additional mast supports, typically a guy or a brace, maybe required for any service line over 50 feet in lengthor if the service mast is more than 36" above the roof.Guys and braces are installed to prevent the weight ofthe service line from pulling the service mast away fromthe house. Further information regarding guying andbracing service masts is available in the NEC.

UNDERGROUND SERVICE

General RequirementsThe following is a checklist for use as a guide whenpreparing for the installation of underground service.Once the customer has completed these items,SWEPCO will install the meter.

Determine the origination point of the service line.Contact SWEPCO for assistance


Dig a trench from the meter socket to the locationwhere the service line will originate.

Install all customer-owned service equipment. Have the city or state inspect the installation, if

required. 911 address visibly displayed. Call SWEPCOs Customer Solutions Center to have

service connect ed.

(888) 216-3523

Getting Started The rst step when installing new underground serviceis to contact SWEPCO and ask for a point of service. ASWEPCO representative will assist in determining thelocation of the meter socket. As stated previously in theGeneral Information section on page 5, the meter socketshould be located outside and on the front one third ofthe home closest to normal public access.

When choosing a meter socket location be sure toconsider the types of terrain where the service line willbe buried. Since it is the customers responsibility forrepairing the service line if it ever fails, the path is subjectto being dug up at some time in the future. Because ofthis, it is in the customers best interest to be sure theservice line route can be easily reached and excavated.It is also recommended that the service be installed inconduit.

Service Equipment Installation Requirements After determining the meter socket location, the service

route and the ampacity of the service equipment,installation of the service equipment can begin.

The service equipment should be installed as surfacemounted as shown in Figure 5.5 on page 69.

The service entrance conductor is the wiring, providedand owned by the customer, which connects to thetop lugs in the meter socket and runs underground

to the SWEPCO power pedestal or pad mountedtransformer. The service entrance conductors mustbe sized according to the NEC and to the rating of themeter socket. At least 5 feet of conductor should beprovided inside the power pedestal or pad mountedtransformer to allow SWEPCO connection to the xedterminals mounted within this equipment. The metersocket should be mounted such that the center of themeter is between 4 and 6 feet above the nished grade.

For help with the installation of service equipment,consult the NEC, call the inspecting agency for the area,or contact an electrical contractor.

Due to the dangers associated with installing conductorsin energized equipment and for access into the lockedequipment, the customer must contact SWEPCO'sCustomer Solutions Center for a appointment toschedule the install of the service conductors withinSWEPCO's equipment.

Items owned and installed by the customer

1. Meter socket (supplied by SWEPCO)

2. Underground service conductors3. All conduits, conduit straps, insulating bushings andlock nuts

4. Ground conductor in accordance with NEC5. Ground rod (copper or copper clad)

Items owned and installed by SWEPCO

1. Transformer, or power pedestal

2. Meter

Clearances From Building Openings and Gas

Meters A minimum clearance of 3 feet is required between ser -vice lines and windows, doors, porches, re escapes,or similar openings. A minimum horizontal clearance of3 feet is required between electric service equipmentand natural gas meter equipment. See Figure 1.5 onpage 13.

RESIDENTIAL SERVICE


15/87


16/8716

Service Equipment Installation Requirements-Underground meter poles

After determining the meter socket location, the serviceroute and the ampacity of the service equipment,installation of the service equipment can begin.

The service equipment should be installed as shown inFigures 5.3 on page 67 and 5.4 on page 68.

Once the customer has installed the meter socket, thenext task is to install the underground service entranceconductor. The service entrance conductor is thewiring, provided by the customer, which connects tothe top lugs in the meter socket and runs undergroundto the SWEPCO power pedestal or pad mountedtransformer. The service entrance conductors mustbe sized according to the NEC and to the rating of themeter socket. At least 5 feet of conductor should beprovided inside the power pedestal or pad mountedtransformer to allow SWEPCO connection to the xedterminals mounted within this equipment. The metersocket should be mounted such that the center of themeter is between 4 and 6 feet above the nished grade.

For help with the installation of service equipment,consult the NEC, call the inspecting agency for the area,or contact an electrical contractor.

Due to the dangers associated with installing conductorsin energized equipment and for access into the lockedequipment, the customer must contact SWEPCO'sCustomer Solutions Center for a appointment toschedule the install of the service conductors withinSWEPCO's equipment.

Items owned and installed by the customer

1. Pole2. Meter socket (supplied by SWEPCO)3. Disconnect switch4. Underground service conductors.5. All conduits, conduit straps, insulating bushings and

lock nuts.

6. Ground conductor in accordance with NEC7. Ground rod (copper or copper clad)


1. Transformer, or power pedestal2. Meter

Mobile Homes, Manufactured Homes, and Manufactured BuildingsService to mobile homes, manufactured homes, andmanufactured buildings shall be made in a manner thatis in compliance with the National Electric Code (NEC).

The overhead service to a mobile home, manufacturedhome, or a manufactured building shall be made using

a customer-owned meter pole. The meter socket shallnot be mounted directly to the home or building. SeeFigure 5.1 on page 65. The service attachment locationon a meter pole for a mobile home or manufacturedhome must be a minimum of 4.5 feet above the roof ofthe home. If this distance can not be obtained, then themeter pole must be located a minimum of 5 feet from theside of the home. A service disconnect must be locatedno greater than 30 feet from the home and in plain view.

The underground service to a mobile home, manufacturedhome or a manufactured building shall be made using

a customer-owned meter pole. The meter socket shallnot be mounted directly to the home or building. SeeFigures 5.3 on page 67 and 5.4 on page 68.

Mobile Home - A factory-assembled structure orstructures transportable in one or more sections that isbuilt on a permanent chassis and designed to be usedas a dwelling without a permanent foundation whereconnected to the required utilities, and includes theplumbing, heating, air-conditioning, and electric systemscontained therein.

Manufactured Home - A structure, transportable inone or more sections, that is 2.5 m ( 8 body ft) or morein width or 12 m (40 body ft) or more in length in thetraveling mode or, when erected on site, is 30 squaremeters (320 squared feet) or more; which is built on achassis and designed to be used as a dwelling, with orwithout a permanent foundation, when connected to therequired utilities, including the plumbing, heating, air-conditioning, and electrical systems contained therein.

Subject to the local authority or inspectors having juri sdiction, manufactured homes equipped with

a factory installed meter socket and other serviceequipment may be connected without the use of a meterpole. See Figure 4.1 on page 54

Manufactured Building - Any building that is of closedconstruction and is made or assembled in manufactur-ing facilities on or off the building site for installation, orfor assembly and installation on the building site, otherthan manufactured homes, mobile homes, park trailers,or recreational vehicles. Portable buildings are includedin this group.

RESIDENTIAL SERVICE


17/87

GENERATORS

Portable GeneratorsGenerators can come in handy during storm-relatedoutages. Portable generators that are not properlyisolated create serious hazards. Generators must beproperly isolated from the customers main service,which is connected to SWEPCOs lines. The easiestway to use a generator is to plug the equipment to beoperated directly into the proper outlet on the generator.

If a generator is not properly isolated, the customer-generated power can ow back to the power line,electrocuting a SWEPCO worker attempting to

restore power. If a line is down on the ground, it canbecome energized from the customers generatorand electrocute anyone that might come into contactwith it.

If not properly isolated, the generator will bedamaged instantly when power is restored. Thiscould cause an electrical re in the home.

When using a portable generator during outages,the most important precaution that can be takenis to open the main service disconnect breaker orremove the main service fuses.

Never connect the generators electrical output toany live home or building electrical circuits. Neverplug a generator into a wall outlet. To properly isolateportable generators, customers should be carefulthat they never connect the generator to an electricaloutlet. Instead, appliances should be connecteddirectly to the generator.

Avoid contact with bare wires and terminals. Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) in any

damp or highly conductive area.

Standby GeneratorsStandby generators which are permanently wired to thecustomers service must be isolated from SWEPCOslines. The standby generator must be isolated fromthe main service while in operation. The most commonisolation method is to install a transfer switch, which isof a type referred to as break before make as shownon pages 18 and 19. This means that the main servicewill be disconnected from the generator before thegenerator is connected to the equipment it is to powerduring the outage.

This type transfer switch also ensures the generator will

be taken of ine when power has been restored.

Installation and setup of a generator and transferswitch system can only be properly done by alicensed electrician. Consult a licensed electrician tochoose a generator system and make certain it meetsnational and local electrical code requirements.

A standby generator should be programmed,maintained and routinely tested ONLY by authorizedpersonnel. Incorrect operation can result in injury,

re, property damage or death. The customer should notify SWEPCO in the planning

stage when a standby generator is being installed.SWEPCO can assist to help ensure the system isbeing installed correctly.

Service entance rated disconnectsNEC Article 230 becomes applicable to transfer switcheswhen the planned installation places the transfer switchon the utility side of the existing service entrance. Inmany areas, it is common practice for the serviceentrance to be a circuit breaker in the main distributionpanel. This requires either installing a new serviceentrance, or to install a service entrance rated transferswitch. A service entrance rated transfer switch is anormal transfer switch with a circuit breaker addedin series with the utility input, and a bonding jumperbetween neutral and ground. Service entrance ratedtransfer switches should be code compliant and be ULlisted meeting all national and local codes.

Options:

1. Service entrance rated transfer switch with switch

mechanism and integral circuit breaker.2. Service entrance rated transfer switch with circuitbreakers as switching mechanism.

3. Service entrance rated circuit breaker located on theline side of the transfer switch.

4. Service entrance rated disconnect switch withintegral fuses located on the line side of the transferswitch.

17 PORTABLE /STANDBY GENERATORS


18/8718

Standby power

1) OH: Overhead connection to Utility or 1) UED: Underground connection to Utility 2) Service Entrance Conductors 3) Meter Socket and Utility Meter

4) Service Connectors 5) Transfer Switch with integral fault interrupting breaker per NEC 6) Feeder from Transfer Switch 7) Generator Connection Point 8) Distribution Panel 9) Feeder and Branch circuits10) Copper or copper clad ground rod

Note: Installation per National Electric Code by electrician

1 OH

1 UED

2

2

3

4 5

6 9

8

710

PORTABLE/STANDBY GENERATORS


19/8719

Standby power-alternate

1) OH: Overhead connection to Utility or 1) UED: Underground connection to Utility 2) Service Entrance Conductors 3) Meter Socket and Utility Meter 4) Service Connectors 5) Main Service Entrance Disconnect per NEC 6) Feeder to Transfer Switch 7) Transfer Switch per NEC 8) Feeder from Transfer Switch 9) Generator Connection Point10) Distribution Panel for Generator Feeder and Branch citcuits11) Copper or copper clad ground rod

1 OH

1 UED

2

2

3

45

67

8

10

911

Notes: Installation per National Electric Code by electrician.Transfer switching of neutral depends on generator.

PORTABLE /STANDBY GENERATORS


20/87

Inspections and CodesThis handbook contains AEP/SWEPCOs requirementsfor electrical service. It does not cover all federal,

state, and local code requirements. It is the customersresponsibility to ensure the project complies with themost recent issue of the NEC and any other federal,state, or local codes that apply.

Once the customers service equipment is installed, thestate, county/parish, or the city with jurisdiction, requiresthat the installation pass an electrical inspection beforeSWEPCO can complete the connection to the electricalsystem. The customer is responsible for requestingand passing this inspection in the locations whereinspections are required.

Underground Service or Other Customer Owned Equipment Locates

Underground services are owned and maintainedby the customer. SWEPCO does not locate

or repair underground services . A quali edelectrical contractor will be able to

provide locates and repairs forunderground services.

Underground locatesTwo working days (48 hours excludingweekends and holidays) prior to

any trenching or excavation work nearunderground utilities such as gas, water,

electric, telephone or cable television, the persondoing this work is required to call for underground

utility locates through a one call system. This isrequired by law. The address or location where thework will be done is given to the one call service andfrom there it is routed to each utility to perform thelocate and marking using spray paint. You may call

the national call number. There is no charge for thisservice.

INTRODUCTION

This section provides information for installing

new temporary service.

Temporary service is de ned as a means of supplyingelectricity to a site for less than one year. Usually atemporary service is installed to provide power duringthe construction phase of a project, while provisionsare being made for permanent power.

The customer needs to complete several items beforeSWEPCO can energize temporary service.They are:

Determine if the service is to be overhead orunderground

Establish an account with SWEPCO Request the temporary service Install the required service equipment Call for an electrical inspection as

required After the electrical inspection is

complete, call SWEPCO torequest that service beenergized

The remainder of the temporary servicesection will assist with this process.

Getting Started Installing temporary electrical service is a jointproject between SWEPCO, the customer, andtheir contractor. Through this coordinated effort, thecustomers temporary service requirements will be met.

Setting up an account

Before SWEPCO can begin working on a project,a billing account must be established. To set up anaccount, call SWEPCOs Customer Solutions Center.

(888) 216-3523

A representative will request general billing information,discuss fees, and the address for the new service. Newaddresses can be obtained from the local 911 authority.

20TEMPORARY SERVICE


21/87


22/87


23/87TEMPORARY SERVICE

In the Fayetteville area only, if the soil conditions aresuch that setting the temporary service pole 5 ft. deep isnot practical, a braced service pole may be used. Figure5.2 on page 66 shows a braced temporary service polewith 2" x 4" braces for additional support. The pole isrequired to be set minimum 3 ft. deep. This structureis NOT to be used for permanent service installations.Do not deviate from the installation standards without

approval from a SWEPCO representative.Items owned and installed by the customer

1. 5" round diameter pole x 20 ft. minimum lengthinstalled 5 feet ground, no timbers are allowed

2. Pole must be creosote or pressure treated3. Meter socket (supplied by SWEPCO) and distribution

panel4. Ground conductor in accordance with NEC5. Ground rod (copper or copper clad)6. Service entrance conductors shall extend 24" out of

the weatherhead and be a minimum of #6 copper or#4 aluminum, all conduits, conduit straps, insulatingbushings and lock nuts

7. 2" x 4" braces (for braced pole see Figure 5.2 onpage 66) are only allowed in the Fayetteville area


1. Insulated clevis2. Overhead service drop line3. Meter

TEMPORARY UNDERGROUNDSERVICE

Temporary underground service is available wherethe existing power facilities are installed underground.If there is power in the area, but the power lines arenot visible, the power system is likely to be installedunderground.

The process and cost of obtaining temporary under-ground service varies, depending on the location ofexisting power facilities. If there is a transformer or powerpedestal located on the property (see Figure 2.2 & 2.3above), engineering may not be required. Install thetemporary meter pole and service wire a minimum of 3 ft.from the transformer or power pedestal, (see Figure 5.3on page 67), obtain an inspection, if required, and callSWEPCO to connect service. Permanent service maycome from another location. Verify with SWEPCO andask for a point of service. See Figure 5.20 on page 86.

Getting Started The following items must be completed prior toenergizing the service:

Contact SWEPCO and request a temporary service. Obtain an electrical work permit from the inspecting

agency, if required. Obtain underground locates. Install the meter pole and meter socket in the

appropriate location. Provide the appropriately sized conductor from the

meter socket to SWEPCOs connection point. Leave 5 extra feet of service wire exposed at the

power pedestal or transformer. Consult the NECfor the appropriate wire sizes.

Obtain an electrical inspection, if required 911 address visibly displayed. Call SWEPCO to announce that the installation has

been inspected and is ready for temporary service(888) 216-3523.

Service Equipment Installation RequirementsItems owned and installed by the customer

1. 5" diameter pole or 4" x 4" minimum timber, 10 footin length installed 3 feet deep

2. Pole or timber must be creosote or penta treated3. Meter socket (supplied by SWEPCO) and distribution

panel4. Underground service conductors which shall be a

minimum of #6 copper or #4 aluminum5. All conduits, conduit straps, insulating bushings and

lock nuts6. Ground conductor in accordance with NEC7. Ground rod (copper or copper clad)


1. Transformer or power pedestal2. Meter

23

FIGURE 2.2 FIGURE 2.3


24/87

I

NTRODUCTION

This chapter applies to customers requiringnew commercial electric service installations of

less than 750 volts. This chapter provides most of theinformation and requirements that will be needed, but itdoes not cover all possible standards and speci cationsrequired by all utilities, states, federal, and local codes.For additional information, contact the local governmentagency, or state inspector, or SWEPCO for assistance.

Engineering, scheduling, and construction of the workwill vary depending upon the job.

General InformationThis handbook contains material on new service forcommercial buildings, as well as other nonresidentialstructures. The material in this section applies to:

Commercial and small industrial buildings Apartment complexes Multi-family dwellings Condominium complexes

If a temporary service is neededduring the construction of thefacility, see Temporary Service

on page 20.

Getting Started Installing new electric service to a commercialbuilding involves close coordination betweenSWEPCOs engineering department, the customer,their contractor(s), and architect.

Through this coordinated effort, the customers load andservice voltage requirements will be met. SWEPCO willneed detailed information on service requirements aswell as the layout for the project. Contact SWEPCOengineering to discuss planning service to large loadsand new developments. An electronic file can bee-mailed to the SWEPCO engineer.

Setting Up An Account The rst step toward new electric service is to establishan account with SWEPCO.

Before SWEPCO can begin working on a project,a billing account must be established. To set up an

account, contact SWEPCOs Customer SolutionsCenter

(888) 216-3523

A representative will request general billing information,discuss fees, and request the address for the newservice. New addresses can be obtained from the local911 authority.

Service Voltages AvailableThe following standard types of services are availablefor commercial customers:

Single-phase120/208 volts, 3 wire120/240 volts, 3 wire240/480 volts, 3 wire

Three-phase120/208 volts, 4 wire WYE

277/480 volts, 4 wire WYE120/240 volts, 4 wire DELTA*

480 volts, 3 wire CORNER GROUND **

* All new three phase loads greaterthan 200A served on the 34.5kV

systems shall be served withsolidly grounded Wye connections

(208Y/120 volts, 480Y/277 volts).Check with SWEPCO before designing120/240-volt 4-wire DELTA service or

building this service voltage. 120/240-volt4-wire OPEN-DELTA services should be limited

to 200 A.

**Prior approval by SWEPCO, offered as transformerrated metering only con guration.

All voltages listed are nominal alternating currentat a frequency of 60 Hz. For the service voltageslisted above, a 100A rating is the minimum serviceallowed.

Service voltages above 600V can be provideddepending upon size of customer's load and availabilitywithin the service area. These services must be primarymetered and a service disconnect located at the point ofservice shall simultaneously disconnect all ungroundedconductors that it controls as required by NEC 230.205.Service voltages above 600V are NOT covered in thishandbook.

24COMMERCIAL SERVICE


25/87COMMERCIAL SERVICE

All self-contained metering applications for permanentcommercial services require the use of a meter socketequipped with a 100% rated manual lever bypass.These meter sockets are provided by SWEPCO. Pleasestate when picking up the meter socket that it is to beused on a commercial application.

For small signs, communications utility, municipalservices, signaling devices, cathodic stations, ect. -

120 volt 2-wire 60 amp services may be used whenappropriate. For the net metering tariff a 3-wire 100Arating is the minimum service allowed.

Underground Service or Other Customer Owned Equipment LocatesUnderground services are owned and maintainedby the customer. SWEPCO does not locate or repairunderground services. A quali ed electrical contractorwill be able to provide locates for underground services.

Underground LocatesTwo working days (48 hours excluding weekends andholidays) prior to any trenching or excavation work nearunderground utilities such as gas, water, electric, tele-phone or cable television, the person doing this work isrequired to call for underground utility locates through aone call system. This is required by law. The addressor location where the work will be done is given to theone call service and from there it is routed to each utilityto perform the locate and marking using spray paint. Youmay call the national call number. There is no charge

for this service.

When calling to request an underground locate, it is best

to use the closest 911 address to the location wherethe digging will be done. In some areas, not all utilitiesare members of the One Call System. In those areasthe customer must contact the utilities individually, forexample, some local water companies. SWEPCO doesnot locate customer owned facilities.

The states have established a color code system toidentify each utility so everyone can see what has beenlocated. The color codes are:

COLOR UTILITY

Red.................Electric Yellow.............Gas/Oil Orange...........Telephone/Cable TV Blue................Water Purple.......... .. .Water, reclaimed, irrigation Green...... .. ... .. .Sewer White..............Proposed facilities

Any digging within 24 inches of either side ofthe location markings must be done by hand.

Manufactured/Mobile Office BuildingManufactured buildings and mobile of ce buildings areused for both temporary and permanent of ces. Theyare usually built on a permanent chassis and designedto be used as a dwelling. The electrical service shall bemade in a manner that is in compliance with the NationalElectric Code (NEC). These buildings will have the sameservice requirements as mobile homes, manufacturedhomes, or manufactured buildings. See the ResidentialService section page 16.

Cost For ServiceDepending upon the scope of the extension required toprovide the service, the Customer may be required topay some or all of this expense.

When the Customer is required to pay SWEPCO fora service, that payment is required to be paid up front

prior to start of construction.

Overhead or Underground ServiceIn most commercial applications, the customer has achoice of overhead or underground service. It is possiblethat local ordinances or zoning may dictate the typeof facilities that may be constructed in public as wellas private property. It is the customers responsibilityto be aware of any applicable codes and ordinancesthat apply. Installation of new SWEPCO undergroundelectric distribution facilities will require the customer to

sign a contract for the installation of these facilities andprovide a right of way easement.

For help determining which type system is installed, callSWEPCO for assistance with the following:

Determining a point of service Determining if construction by SWEPCO is required Determining if a right of way easement is required What construction is required by the customer What costs, if any, will be involved

25


26/8726

OVERHEAD SERVICEGeneral RequirementsThis section provides information on installing anoverhead service. The following checklist identi estasks the customer is responsible for. After these itemsare completed, SWEPCO will install the service lineand meter.

Ask SWEPCO for a point of service (see Figure 5.20on page 86) Check for local ordinances or covenants that prevent

obtaining an overhead service. Also, the localgoverning agency may not allow overhead service


Provide SWEPCO with a load summary (single-phase and three phase loads)

Provide a path, which is to be clear of obstructions,between SWEPCOs power pole and the servicemast installed by the customer

Install the required service equipment Install the service entrance conductors, leaving a

minimum of 24 inches exposed at the weatherhead Verify that the service mast height and point of

attachment requirements have been met. Obtain an electrical inspection from governmental

agency if required Call SWEPCOs Customer Solutions Center to

request the service connection

Getting Started Before installing an overhead commercial service, thecustomer should contact SWEPCO and ask for a pointof service. The customer will need to be able to providea detailed list of their anticipated electrical loads andrequired service voltage and phase types. A site or plotplan is necessary to ensure that new poles or overheadservice lines do not interfere with other facilities. TheSWEPCO engineer will provide assistance to the cus-tomer to determine the best service route.

When choosing the meter location, consider carefully

the terrain the line will cross. If possible, avoid routesthat cross a commercial driveway subject to truck traf c.Service lines crossing driveways can be torn down byvehicles and cause damage to the customers serviceequipment. Repairs to this equipment can be expensive;not counting the down time a commercial business wouldsuffer while power is out.

If the service line will pass through any trees, thecustomer is required to prune them to providea clear path for the service line. The customeris responsible for regular tree pruning, and if

necessary, tree removal to keep the path clear. Thepoint of delivery for overhead service is the connectorat the customers weatherhead.

Service Mast RequirementsThe requirements for the installation of the service mastare described in the National Electric Code (NEC). Referto pages 11 through 14 of the Residential OverheadService section for more detail of minimum service mast

requirements. Additional mast supports may be requiredfor any service lines over 40 feet in length.

Height RequirementsOverhead service cables for a commercial installationmay be much heavier than those required for aresidential service and would need additional height atthe point of attachment to allow for proper clearanceat mid-span. Also, the point of attachment wouldneed to be stronger and better anchored in that case.Installations where the service line crosses a driveway

subject to truck traf c would require additional height atthe point of attachment.

Figure 4.2 on page 55 shows the minimum allowableheights as required by the National Electric Safety Code(NESC). The SWEPCO representative will provideassistance to the customer to determine the point ofattachment height or if additional mast supports areneeded for the installation.

Service Equipment Installation RequirementsOnce the service layout has been coordinated betweenSWEPCO, the customer and the contractor, installationof the service equipment can begin. Refer to pages11 through 14 for further details of overhead serviceinstallations.

For many commercial applications, the installationsshown in Figures 4.1 on page 54 and 5.1 on page 65would apply. For larger commercial overhead serviceapplications refer to Figure 5.7 on page 71.

The customer is responsible for furnishing and installing

1. Service entrance conductors2. All conduits3. Ground wire in accordance with NEC4. Ground rod (copper or copper clad)5. Meter socket with bypass lever which is supplied

by SWEPCO

SWEPCO is responsible for furnishing and installing

1. Service line2. Meter

COMMERCIAL SERVICE


27/87COMMERCIAL SERVICE27

UNDERGROUND SERVICE

General RequirementsThis section gives information on installing undergroundservice for a commercial structure. For commercialunderground services, the customer supplies the serviceline to SWEPCOs transformer or secondary enclosure.

The following checklist identi es tasks the customer isresponsible for, when installing underground service. After these items are completed, SWEPCO will installthe metering equipment and connect the service.

Ask SWEPCO for a point of service. See Figure5.20 on page 86

Check for any local ordinances or covenants that willprevent obtaining an underground service


Obtain underground locates. Supply site drawings to SWEPCOs engineering

department Supply load information to SWEPCOs engineering

department Provide an easement for any permanent equipment

installed on the property and owned by SWEPCO Sign a contract for underground electric distribution

Install the required service equipment.

Connect and label conductors at the meter location Provide trench or conduits between the customersequipment and SWEPCOs facilities

Provide trench and service conductors, conduits,pull boxes and transformer pads if required

Obtain an electrical inspection from a governmentalagency if required

Call SWEPCOs Customer Solutions Center torequest the service connection

Getting Started Before installing an underground commercial service,the customer should contact SWEPCO and ask for apoint of service. The customer will need to be able toprovide a detailed list of their anticipated electrical loadsand required service voltage and phase types. A site orplot plan will be necessary to ensure that undergroundconduits, cable or padmount transformers do not inter-fere with other facilities. Special consideration and plan-ning should be made to see that cables are installed inconduits in areas where they are subject to being pavedover. The same is true for those areas where trees andlandscaping might hinder excavating the power cables

in the event of a failure. The SWEPCO engineer forthe project will provide assistance to the customer todetermine the best service route.

Once the customer and the SWEPCO engineer haveagreed on a service route, a layout will be made showingcable, conduit and transformer locations.

In most cases, commercial underground service instal-lations will be made from a SWEPCO padmount trans-former or secondary enclosure. SWEPCO provides andinstalls the high voltage primary cables, transformer andmetering equipment. The customer is responsible forinstalling all conduits and transformer foundations. Itis advisable that a spare conduit be installed in case asevere cable fault damages the other conduit.

In some instances a pull box will be required due toexcessive cable lengths. This will be provided and in-stalled by the customer in accordance with SWEPCO

speci cations. See Figures 5.18 and 5.19 on pages 82and 83 for pull box speci cations.

All conduits, concrete pads, pull boxes and servicecables are installed, owned and maintained by thecustomer.

The point of delivery for underground service is theconnections inside SWEPCOs transformer or secondaryenclosure.

Refer to pages 15 and 16 of the Residential Undergroundservice section for more detail on minimum servicerequirements. For many commercial applications, theinstallations shown in either Figures 5.3, 5.4 or 5.5 onpage 67 through page 69 could apply, depending onthe service size.

For commercial underground service applications referto Figure 5.8 on page 72 and Figure 5.10 on page 74.Figure 5.8 on page 72 details an underground serviceinstallation with the meter mounted on the building. It isalways preferred to mount the meter on the building. For

situations where the meter cannot be readily mountedor accessed at the building, an installation such asshown in Figure 5.10 on page 74 would apply. Foreither installation, the SWEPCO engineer will specifywhether the service will be from a service pedestal orpadmounted transformer. The SWEPCO engineer willalso specify conduit size and transformer pad details.


28/8728

Code Clearance RequirementsThe minimum clearance requirements around padmounttransformers are shown in Figure 4.3 on pages 56 and57. A 10 ft. clear work zone in front of a padmounttransformer is required. This work zone is criticalfor outage restoration and routine maintenance. Inareas where trucks or other vehicles operate close topadmount transformers, guard posts or other barrierswill need to be installed around the transformer.

Clearances From Gas Meters A minimum horizontal clearance of 3 feet is requiredbetween electric service equipment and natural gasmetering equipment. For more information, see MeterClearances and Figure 3.1 on page 33.

Service Equipment Installation RequirementsOnce the service layout has been coordinated betweenSWEPCO, the customer or his contractor, installationof the service equipment can begin. The customer

is responsible for installing all conduits, transformerfoundations and service entrance conductors betweenthe point of delivery and the customers servicedisconnect. For services where current transformer (CT)metering is required, the customer must also install a1- inch conduit from the padmount transformer to themeter base. In three phase padmounted transformers,SWEPCO supplies and installs the CTs inside thepadmount transformer and installs the meter wiring inthe 1- inch conduit. Refer to page 40 of the Metering section for CT metering installations.

Current transformers can only be installed in threephase pad mounted transformers. Do not attemptto install 1- inch conduit for CT metering cablein single phase pad mounted transformers. Seepage 41 of Metering for CT metering of single phaseunderground loads.

Service Conductor RequirementsThe customers underground service conductors areconnected inside the SWEPCO padmount transformer.

All service conductors are required to extend at least8 feet above the padmount transformer foundation toallow SWEPCO to properly terminate cable connections.

All service conductors must be connected to thecustomers switchgear or service disconnect before

SWEPCO can install and terminate these conductorsinside the padmount transformer.

There are limits to the number of conductors thatSWEPCO can connect to the transformer terminals.Once it is determined what size padmount transformerSWEPCO will install for the project, the customer andhis contractors need to verify the service conductors donot exceed the limits outlined in the table below.

SWEPCO does not recommend 120/240 volt single phase service for new apartment building loads over167 KVA. Apartment buildings with loads greaterthan 167 KVA should receive service from a three

phase 208Y/120 volt pad mounted transformer usingthree wire 120/208 volt network meters with the loadbalanced on a four wire three phase 208Y/120 voltservice.

SWEPCO does not recommend 208Y/120 voltservice for new loads over 750 KVA.

If the customer requires more conductors than themaximum number SWEPCO can connect, the customershall furnish and install a secondary junction box and padto SWEPCO speci cations adjacent to the transformer.The customer shall furnish and install necessary conduitbetween the secondary junction box and the transformer.SWEPCO will furnish and install conductors from thecustomer's junction box to the low voltage compartmentof the transformer.

COMMERCIAL SERVICE


29/87COMMERCIAL SERVICE29

Neutral Conductors All services from SWEPCO three phase padmounttransformers are 4 wire - WYE connected. The neutralconductors are required to be grounded at the SWEPCOtransformer and at the customers switchgear. Theneutral connection is required to protect against lineto ground faults. SWEPCO will not connect a servicewithout the proper neutral connection.

Grounding Conductors All services from SWEPCO three phase padmounttransformers are 4 wire - WYE connected. The customershould not install separate equipment groundingconductors from the customer's switchgear to theSWEPCO transformer. SWEPCO will not connectequipment grounding conductors.

120/240 Volt, Delta Three Phase ServiceSWEPCO three phase padmount transformers are notavailable for delta service connections. Underground

services for 120/240 volt delta connections are not gen -erally available from SWEPCO and are not covered inthis handbook. The SWEPCO engineer for the projectwill provide information on delta service installation.

TrenchingThe service ditch dug by the customer must meet stateand local regulatory requirements. Ditches and conduitsupplied for primary systems owned and installed bySWEPCO must have a minimum of 48 inches (see Fig -ure 5.11 on page 75) of cover to the top of the conductor

or conduit to the point of nal grade. For a secondarytrench, you will need 36 inc hes (see Figure 5.8 on page72) of cover to the top of the conductor or conduit to thepoint of nal grade.

Conduit RequirementsThe customer is responsible for installing and maintainingall primary and secondary voltage level conduits to theSWEPCO transformer or secondary enclosure. It isadvisable that a spare primary cable conduit be installedin case a severe fault damages the primary conduit suchthat a new cable cannot be pulled in.

The primary cable conduit size will be speci ed bythe SWEPCO engineer. The conduit is installed andowned by the customer. Primary conduit installationrequirements are shown in Figure 5.11 on page 75.Conduit supplied for primary systems must have aminimum of 48 inches of cover to the top of the conduitto the point of nal grade. The conduit installation mustbe eld inspected and accepted by SWEPCO.

For services where current transformer (CT) metering isrequired, the customer must also install 1 inch conduitfrom the padmount transformer to the meter base. Referto page 40 of the Metering section.

Service cable conduit sizes are specified by thecustomer or his electrical design engineer.

Transformer and Secondary Enclosure Pad RequirementsThe customer is responsible for installing the transformerand secondary enclosure pads (foundations).

The location of this equipment must be approved bya SWEPCO representative prior to installation. Thecorrect pad will be speci ed by the SWEPCO engineer.Figures 5.12, 5.13, 5.14, 5.15, 5.16, and 5.17 on page76 through page 81 show concrete pad dimensions andother requirements. Field inspection of transformer pads

is required and should always occur prior to pouring theconcrete. It is the contractor's responsibility to notifySWEPCO that an inspection is needed.

Conduit locations within the transformer pad are critical.The area shown on the left of center is for those primaryconduits on the SWEPCO high voltage side of thetransformer. Secondary conduits are located in thearea just right of center. If the installation is to be CTmetered, this area is where the 1- inch conduit forCT metering cable would be located. See the concretepad speci cations in the Drawing Specifcations sectionFigure 5.13, 5.14, and 5.15 on page 77 through page79 for the exact placement of primary and secondaryconduits.

When installing secondary conduits, it is recommendedthat the nal location of the transformer pad be roughed-in to determine the exact location of the secondaryconduits. This is particularly important when installingthe maximum number of service conduits availablefor a given size of transformer. Failure to place thesecondary conduits within the given dimensions of the

secondary compartment as indicated on the transformerpad speci cation drawing will result in the transformerpad being rejected at the time of eld inspection.

Current transformers can only be installed in threephase pad mounted transformers. Do not attemptto install 1- inch conduit for CT metering cablein single phase pad mounted transformers. Seepage 41 of Metering for CT metering of single phaseunderground loads.


30/87


31/87


32/8732METERING

All necessary wiring, connectors, and lugs (customerside except CT meter wiring)

Protection equipment

SWEPCOs Responsibility SWEPCO is responsible for furnishing, installing andmaintaining the following:

Revenue meters Current transformers Test switches CT wiring

Meter Sockets provided by SWEPCOSWEPCO will provide at no cost, 6 types of metersockets for use in new installations, replacements orupgraded electric services. It is the customers and/orthe electricians responsibility to install and maintain themeter socket. Refer to the table above for details ofmeter sockets available to SWEPCO customers.

Meter LocationThe customer must provide a location to installmetering equipment. The meter location must be freefrom obstruction, corrosive atmosphere, abnormaltemperature and vibration. The meter should alwaysbe mounted between 4 feet and 6 feet from the ground( nal grade), measured to the center of the meter.

Any exceptions must be approved in advance by AEPSWEPCO management and will be handled on anindividual basis. See pages 5 and 6 for additionalinformation about a new meter location, identi cationrequirements, and application for service.

All meters, meter equipment, and enclosuresmust be readily accessible by SWEPCO personnelduring normal business hours for meter reading,maintenance, testing, installation, or removal. Allmeter locations are subject to approval by SWEPCO.

Metering installations in a flood zone and areas prone to floodingSWEPCO, at its discretion, may require the meter tobe elevated and a suitable platform to be constructedin order to access the metering equipment if the site ofthe installation is in a designated ood zone or knownto be prone to seasonal ooding. In this case pleaserefer to Figure 3.11 on page 51 for the speci cations.

Meters must not be installed at any of the followinglocations:

Above the rst story level or below the rst basementlevel of a building. Any exceptions to this rule musthave the prior approval from SWEPCO beforeinstallation begins.

On poles owned by SWEPCO. On any line pole occupied solely by the telephone

company, except to service telephone companyequipment.

In commercial occupancies they do not serve. Any place where safety may be compromised.

Electrical RoomsMeter sockets may be located inside an electricalequipment room . The electrical room must be usedsolely for power and communication equipment, andmust have a door directly to the outside, or with prior

approval from SWEPCOs meter department, directly offthe lobby of the structures main entrance. The electricalroom must be well lit, accessible during normal businesshours, and not be used for storage. The size of the doormust be a minimum 2 feet 8 inches by 6 feet 8 inches.The customer is responsible for providing a location nearthe door for installation of a key box, and a key for thebox and for installing a sign on the exterior door sayingElectrical Room.


33/8733 METERING

General Meter Socket RequirementsMeter socket requirements include the following:

All meter sockets must be ringless. Meter sockets must not be jumpered to provide

power. Any meter socket containing energized equipment

must be covered and sealed with a transparent cover

plate when a meter is not installed. All unused openings of the meter socket enclosuremust be closed with plugs (rain tight, if outside) thatare locked tightly in place from inside the enclosures,before a meter is installed.

Meters must be installed only in sockets which arelevel, plumb, and securely fastened to the structure.

Meter sockets and enclosures must be acceptableto SWEPCO and Underwriters Laboratories Listedand labeled.

Terminals must be marked with a conductor rangefor aluminum or copper conductors. When aluminum

conductors are used, the socket must be approvedand clearly marked by the manufacturer for that use.

All meter equipment exposed to weather mustbe rain tight according to the National Electricalmanufacturers Association (NEMA) 3R minimum.

Meter ClearancesThe center of the meter socket is always the point ofreference. Meter socket height is a minimum of 4 feetand a maximum of 6 feet above nished grade or oor.Working space in front of metering equipment (includingcurrent transformer enclosures) must be at least 36inches wide and 36 inches deep, measured from thefront of the enclosure and meters. A minimum clearanceof 36" is required between service lines and windows,doors, porches, re escapes or similar openings. Plants,shrubs, and trees must not be planted in this space.Gas meters and related piping must be at least 36inches horizontally from the center of the meter socketenclosure. See Figure 3.1 at right.

Meter Socket LabelingMeter sockets must be permanently labeled to indicate

the part of the premises they service, for example, theunit number. The customers name is not acceptable.The labels must be either engraved phenolic nameplatesor adhesive-type labels at least one-inch high. Felt-tip pens and label maker tape are not consideredpermanent marking. Service will not be connected untilmarking is complete.

Service ConductorsMetered circuits must not enter raceways or enclosurescontaining un-metered circuits.

Customer Load MonitoringThe customers load monitoring equipment mustbe installed only on the load side of the meter. Nocustomer equipment is allowed to be attached to themeter, associated metering equipment, nor locatedinside a meter or current transformer enclosure.For larger services (1000 KW or above) the customershall install a separate conduit or other means to allow

a telephone circuit to be installed up to the metersocket. This provides for metering that can be remotelyaccessed by the customer and/or SWEPCO. ConsultSWEPCO metering department for details

Current Limiting FusesCurrent limiting fuses to protect the customers electricalsystem from high fault current must not be installed inmeter sockets, instrument transformer enclosures, orSWEPCOs distribution transformers.

Current limiting fuses may be installed in the cus -

tomers service panel or in a separate enclosure.

METER SOCKET MINIMUM CLEARANCES

FIGURE 3.1


34/8734METERING

GROUNDING

General All meter sockets, enclosures, and conduit must bebonded and grounded in accordance with Articles 230and 250 of the latest edition of the NEC. When self-contained meter sockets are used, the neutral conduc-tor must be connected to the neutral terminal in thesocket The grounded neutral conductor of the serviceentrance conductors shall be grounded in accordancewith the NEC.

All conduits, metallic tubing and service entrance equip -ment shall be grounded in accordance with the latestrevision of the NEC. The NEC or other local governingcode shall be consulted at the time for dimensions,speci cations of material, and to determine the appropri -ate method of installing the grounding system (minimumcopper or copper clad of 5/8 inch diameter).

The equipment grounding conductors should not beinstalled along with the service entrance conductorsbeing installed to the secondary compartment of theCompany's padmount transformers.

Communications Companies

Communication companies, such as telephone andcable television, are forbidden to ground their sys - tems to the meter enclosure.

SWEPCO owned meter enclosures shall not be usedby any other utility for the purpose of grounding theother utilitys equipment. Communications companies,such as cable television (CATV), telephone and otherservice providing companies have been found to usethe SWEPCO meter enclosures as grounding locationsfor their service equipment. This is not acceptable asan interconnected grounding system and the practiceshall not be allowed. Methods used by outside entitiesto ground their equipment to the meter enclosure include"C" clamps, bolts and sheet metal screws. These meth-ods can cause physical damage to the meter enclosuremaking it vulnerable to rust and water intrusion. Thesedevices can present an encumbrance to meter person-nel attempting to service the meter. These devices canalso cause extra labor costs and liability risks when workis being performed at the meter site.

Due to the above listed risks, grounding to an SWEPCOowned meter enclosure by any company, organiza-tion or individual is not allowed. Any entity requiring aground for their equipment should consult and followthe requirements of the latest revision of the National

Electrical Code.

If instances are found wherein this policy has beenviolated, the company or individual in question will becontacted to safely rectify the situation.

METERING EQUIPMENTREQUIREMENTS

General This chapter provides requirements for the meteringequipment that the customer must provide. Followthese requirements, to avoid a delay in hooking upservice. If there are additional questions about thisinformation, call SWEPCO for assistance.

SWEPCO will assume no responsibility for inspect -ing the customers equipment, but shall have theright to refuse service if the service equipment isdeemed unsafe to connect.

Service Rating OptionsMetering equipment requirements for single-family resi -dential structures (not apartments or condominiums) arebased upon the following single-phase service ratings.

For service over 400 Amps or for a three-phase ser-vice, see page 35 and page 40. Contact SWEPCOMetering or Engineering personnel for assistancewhen CT metering is involved. Each service is ad-dressed individually and must receive SWEPCOapproval.

General RequirementsThe customer is responsible for providing and installingall equipment other than: The meter The service line - if served overhead.

Exception - The customer provides the undergroundservice cable, if served underground.


35/87


36/8736METERING

SELF-CONTAINED METER SOCKET CONNECTIONS

FIGURE 3.2

NEUTRAL

LINE

120 V

LOAD

NEUTRAL

LINE

LOAD

240 V

120 V

120 V

1 2 0 V

NEUTRAL LINE

LOAD

208 V

1 2 0 V

240 V

120 V

WHITE

120 V


37/8737 METERING

SELF-CONTAINED METER SOCKET CONNECTIONS

FIGURE 3.2

208V

208V

208V

LINENEUTRAL

LOAD

1 2 0 V

1 2 0 V 1 2 0 V

480V

480V

480V

LINENEUTRAL

LOAD

2 7 7 V

2 7 7 V 2 7 7 V

240V

240V

240V

LINENEUTRAL

LOAD

2 0 8 V

1 2 0 V 1 2 0 V


38/8738

Single-phase Services: 201 to 400 amps A self-

2013 electric service handbook

Documents