Industry News:

Maryland PSC approves a Small Generator Interconnection Standards

In March 2008, the MD Public Service Commission adopted this new regulation effective 6/9/2008. 

This information applies to all MD electric service customers seeking to interconnect a small electric generator (see all conditions below) to the local electric distribution system.                                                                                                    

1. The nameplate capacity of the small generator facility is equal to or less than 10 MW;

2. The small generator facility is not subject to the interconnection requirements of PJM Interconnection

3. The small generator facility is designed to operate in parallel with the electric distribution system.

The customer MUST apply to the local electric distribution company for approval of such installation.  If the customer would like to sell energy in the PJM market, then the application must be made to PJM, who in turn will work with the local distribution company.

All applications forms and additional contact information will be available on the local electric distribution company website.

The most important safety requirement concerns the isolation devices.

1. Small generator facilities must be capable of being isolated from the utility distribution system.

2. The isolation shall be by means of a lockable, visible-break isolation device accessible by the utility.

3. The isolation device shall be installed, owned, and maintained by the owner of the small generation

For more information see MD PSC web http://www.psc.state.md.us/psc/electric/workinggroups.htm and look under Small Generator Interconnections Working Group.

GFCI Receptacle Product Notification

BGE Update

BGE Conservation Program

In February BGE kicked off an energy conservation program to inform and educate customers about simple, inexpensive, and effective ways to conserve energy around their homes.  BGE enlisted the help of Allegra Bennett, a home improvement specialist, known locally as the "Renovating Woman." 

The conservation program features Allegra in several television and radio spots in which she provides a variety of energy saving ideas and products that are inexpensive and easy for homeowners to install.  

Allegra is also featured at BGE's web site, http://www.bge.com.  Look at "Saving energy saves money." and click on Find Out How.  Customers can watch and listen to conservation tips offered by Allegra and BGE. 

BGE’s New On-line Service Application

BGE is pleased to announce the implementation of the new On-line Service Application for new gas and/or electric installations, relocations, and upgrades. You now have the option of submitting all Service Applications on-line! 

The new process is designed to be more efficient and cost effective.  The on-line application has several new features which include:

·        The ability to attach prints and drawings to the application

·        Copy from one application to another making the filing of several applications in the same development easier

·        On-line help to assist you as you complete the form

·        E-mail confirmation, including the job reference number

The on-line service applications are found on the New Construction Services link on BGE’s home page.  You can access BGE’s website at http://www.bge.com or use the link on the Electric League of Maryland’s web page http://www.elmd.org. 

After submitting the service applications, you can check the progress of your job using the web site, too. 

·        Use the job reference number or WMS number to view the status at any time

·        Obtain up-to-date information regarding job requirements and next steps needed before scheduling

·        Get information regarding site conditions and construction schedules  

If you prefer, the applications are still available for download in the Adobe formatted file on the New Construction Services link. 

Additional reference materials, including the Metering Manual, Construction Project Process, and The Customer Information Manual, can also be found on the BGE web site. 

BALTIMORE COUNTY INSPECTIONS

Self-Service Phone System – Should be available in June.

New Self-Service Permit Access System 24/7 Done By Phone or Web.

Will allow permit access to:

   Schedule New Inspections

   Reschedule Currently Scheduled Inspections

   Cancel Currently Scheduled Inspections

Hear or receive by fax:

         Results of inspections

         If an inspection is scheduled

More information will be mailed to all license holders prior to effective starting date.  If you have questions regarding this system, please contact Vince Metallo at 410-887-3960.

OFFICE OF THE FIRE MARSHALL – Dennis Gentzel, P.E.

We are seeing an increase in the number of Fake UL symbols on extension cords in Maryland.  Many are stick ons and UL does not use stick on labels.

Many are the UL label in a square box.  The UL Label is in a circle with a smaller circle inside with an R (trademark symbol).  UL also places there mark on the extension cord.  All of the fake extension cords only had UL on the packaging.

We are also seeing appliances with no listing or label such as coffee pots, lamps, fans and other small appliances.

Incidentally these "fakes" are not showing up so far in the large chain stores, but mostly in small stores with low price

IEC NEWS

Grounding & Bonding Seminar (Meets Maryland and Delaware Masters CEU requirements)

IEC Chesapeake is pleased to announce that Scott Harding will present his very popular 10-hour Grounding and Bonding Seminar at the IEC Chesapeake Odenton Training Center beginning Oct. 7 and running for 4 consecutive Tuesdays between 6 – 8:30 pm.  Scott is renowned for his knowledge on Grounding and Bonding.  He presently sits on the NEC Code panel for the same. Students need a minimum of 5 years experience in the electrical trade and a copy of the 2008 NEC.  All students will receive a copy of Mike Holt’s 2008 Electrical Grounding and Bonding.

“Learn the Tools to Get the Job in Today’s Competitive Market” will begin on October 17, 2008.  This 8-hour seminar is designed to make you successful and competitive in today’s difficult job market.  Kevin Dougherty brings 19 years of experience speaking to construction industry associations across the country.  Topics to be discussed are: how to find, train, motivate and retain employees, business skills for contracting success, common financial pitfalls contractors face, and market planning.  The seminar will be held on Friday, October 17, 2008 between 7:30 and 4 pm.  Lunch will be provided.   Register on line at http://www.iec-chesapeake.com or for more information call 1-800-470-3013.

Home