I just learned that anti-oxidant paste is NOT an NEC requirement after decades of working in the electrical field. This is the kind of thing you just assume when working with others. That's the value in sites like this.
Back to the original question, yes, I would use and trust AL cable if the panel and meter base lugs are rated for it (few aren't, at least not in the past 40 years or so). If aluminum is installed correctly, it's a highly-efficient conductor. I agree that there may be local restrictions on using it, but I have yet to encounter any AHJ that prohibits it. That's usually more of a customer or building owner-level restriction.
#2AL is permitted by the NEC for residential 100 amp services, which is actually an exception since it's really not rated to handle 100 amps under other circumstances.
[This message has been edited by EV607797 (edited 03-06-2007).]
