utility obfuscation and obstruction [RE-wrenches]

[Jeffrey Wolfe, Global Resources]

Just received a letter today from our local big utility wannabe. Central 
Vermont "Public Service" is Vermont's largest utility, but tiny on a 
national scale. But they try to be lke the big guys, and aparently take 
their cues from the folks at NIMO.

I've installed quite a few systems in their territory, and for the past two 
years, I've used the Milbank airconditioning type disconnect as the 
"utility accessible, locakable, load break rated, visible break disconnect 
switch..." required in the Vermont (and many other) state net metering 
regulations.

today, I received a letter from CVPS as follows:

"Dear Mr. Wolfe:

"It has come to my attention that your Company has installed Milbank air 
conditioning disconnects in lieu of the required disconnect switch on at 
least three Net Metered customers.

"This device is a disconnect NOT a switch. It does not meet the 
requirements of VT PSB Rule 5.100 " A utility accessible, locakable, load 
break rated, visible break disconnect switch with safe working clearances 
is required for all installations.

"We are hereby requesting that the locations in question be retro-fitted 
with the correct type of switch as soon as possible.

"If you have any questions, please contact me.

Sincerely,


Allan D. St. Peter, P.E.
Electrical Engineer

Is this utility trying to block RE? or just being safety conscious? The 
little Milbank disconnects have been recommended for this service by, among 
others, John Wiles. (I spoke with him today, and received a few pointers 
for combating this, which I will do.) I'm not sure how quibbling about the 
definition of a "swtich" is really helping RE move forward. It's 
interesting to note of course, that no code or standard, to my knowledge, 
has a clear definition of what a "visible break disconnect switch" is. 
According to everything I can read in NEC, the Milbank fits the 
description. (As John pointed out, one cannot safely trust the handle of a 
safety switch to indicate the open or closed position. The mechanism CAN 
break. One must see the contacts, which requires opening the safety 
switch.)

So I've just written notes to the homeowners (who were copied by CVPS on 
the above letter) reassuring them that their installation is safe and code 
compliant.

We'll fight this. It will be interesting to see if CVPS attempts to 
disconnect the customers' systems. They'd either have to pull the meter, 
or, shudder, use the Milbank switch.

I'll let you know how we make out. Any contributions to the defense fund 
should be kept cold and presented at the MREF.

Jeff

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