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Monday, November 14, 2016
Question:
Do you have any thoughts as to the applicability of the provisions of Articles 690 and 705 relative to Recreational Vehicles, which are covered under Article 551? Prior to the 2017 NEC Chapters 5-7 were used to modify or supplement Chapters 1-4. Under the revised Section 90.3 for the 2017 NEC, the requirements of Chapters 5-7 “may” supplement or modify the provisions of Chapters 1-7, but there is no indication that they “shall” be used in cases where they might be applicable but are not required.
Given that many RV’s are now being fitted or retrofitted with fairly large, sophisticated, and even interactive photovoltaic power and energy storage microgrid systems, I am asking the rhetorical question: Is it time to add language to the Code to require PV installations on RV’s to follow the guidelines of Articles 690 and 705? Given that many RV’s are used in place of traditional housing for long periods and that their cost often rivals that of some traditional dwellings, perhaps it’s time to add language to Article 551 relative to renewable energy systems.
Thomas Bowes
A
Answer:
Hey Thomas thanks for your question, it is good to hear that you are already reading the 2017 NEC. Article 90, the introduction to the NEC does not generally contain mandatory terms, such as shall, so stating that a Chapter 5, 6, or 7 rule can supplement modify any chapter is simply stating a fact. In your example Articles 690 and 705 are not modifying Article 551, it would apply to PV systems wherever they are installed under the NEC scope. Section 551.32 does include inverters but that doesn't go far enough. I agree that adding requirements in 551 to address the specifics of other energy sources would be very helpful, maybe even wind turbines that could be used while traveling.