Interconnected Electrical Power Production Sources 5f049be943660

National Electrical Code

NEC Requirements for Interconnected Electrical Power Production Sources

July 7, 2020

Key takeaways from Art. 705

If an electric power production source (EPPS) operates in parallel with the primary source of electricity, it is an interconnected EEPS and must comply with Art. 705 of the National Electrical Code (NEC).

A photovoltaic system [690] that is the sole power source for specific branch circuits is not an interconnected EPPS. However, if that system is tied to the same service as the primary power source, then it is an interconnected EPPS.

Some highlights include:

A permanent plaque or directory at each service equipment location must denote the location of each power source [705.10].
An EPPS connected on the supply side [705.11] has different requirements than one connected on the load side 705.12]. For example, a supply side connected EPPS must meet the ground fault protection requirements of 230.95 while one on the load side does not.
The output of an EPPS must be compatible with the voltage, wave shape, and frequency of the system it’s connected to. This has implications for synchronous generators [705.14].
The rules for the source disconnecting means have been heavily revised with the 2020 NEC [705.16].

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.