ECN Forum Forums Code Related Discussion NEC & other Code issues New Electrical Loads

I recently gutted an industrial kitchen, replacing several elect appliances with gas, and replacing some 208V appliances with larger 480V appliances. Using article 220-35 to verify the existing service was adequate, I calculated 150kVA (208V) removed from the kitchen and 130kVA (480) installed, for a net reduction in load. According to our local inspector, however, I cannot take credit for any load removed. I must use the maximum demand (last 12 months) times 125% and add the 150kVA of new load! This makes no sense to me!!! My calculations would indicate that I have doubled the kitchen load, when in fact, it has been reduced. Is this tha actual intent of the NEC?!!!

I would submit the plans with a new calculated load for the new remodeled load of the entire building/service. You will have to clearly note the old circuitry and conduits were removed so that the no longer apply.

We considered this, but that means we can't use the 12-month usage as a baseline, and it also means updating panel schedules on about 30 panels for a 20 year old building. That seems like the inspector is simply forcing us to spend a lot of time for a requirement that is NOT the intent of the NEC, nor has any technical requirement.

It's simple:

Your calculated load is 150 kVa. Table 220.11 "all others" 100% demand factor. Do the math, if you have a 480 service, then you must only use 80% of your panel's capacity. So then:

150,000 x 1.25 = 187,500 VA

187,500 VA/480V= 390.625A

Your next available main SVC. is a 400 Amp.

Please let me know if this is any help.

[This message has been edited by Jacuzzi Guy Electric (edited 11-17-2002).]