[RE-wrenches] breaker instead of fused disco

[Jerry Shafer]

Jerry
Historically the utilities require a bladed disco, we had one on a military
base which required a breaker by the base  but we also were required to
install a visible fused disco no breaker because is approved by that
utility. Seeing is Believing when it comes to discos.
Jerry

On Tue, Oct 3, 2017 at 3:16 PM, Gary Willett <Gary at icarussolarservices.com>
wrote:

> Jerry:
>
> I don't know about PG&E, but here in Texas, a VLLD (Visible Lockable
> Labeled AC Disconnect) is required for the PV system AC disconnect. They
> want to see a switch on which it can be seen that it is off with the
> dead-front cover closed, and that can be locked-out using their lock in the
> off position. These requirements usually are fulfilled with a knife switch
> type disconnect.
>
> The PV system AC disconnecting means has to have an SCCR (short circuit
> current rating, in kA) that will handle the same available short circuit
> current as the main service disconnecting means. Usually, that's readily
> achievable with fuses.
>
> It may be possible to mount a service entrance rated circuit breaker in a
> dedicated enclosure (visible/lockable) if PG&E says OK. But then you may
> run into NEC 110.10 listing issues unless the enclosure's SCCR is based on
> assembly testing by a NRTL to UL 508A.
>
>
> Regards,
>
> Gary Willett
> Icarus Engineering / Solar Services LLC
>
>
> On 10/3/17 12:21 PM, Jerry Caldwell wrote:
>
>> Dear Wrenches with experience in PG&E territory:
>> I'm installing a system with a line side tap.  Can I use a small subpanel
>> with room for only one circuit breaker instead of a fused disconnect?  The
>> NEM application, step 2 requires you to select a fused disconnect from
>> their list of approved devices.  Does anyone have experience with PG&E
>> granting a variance on this requirement?
>>
>> Thanks in advance.  Any help is appreciated.
>> Jerry Caldwell510.205.2798
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