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Meter Collar Devices - Customer Owned

PPL Electric Utilities

PPL Electric does not permit the installation of customer-owned meter collar devices (MCD) between the utility billing meter and the meter base it is installed on.

Use of a customer-owned MCD requires installation on a separate customer-owned and operated meter base located on the load side of the utility meter. This is known as a “Standalone Installation” and does not violate utility standards when installed in this configuration. Customers may use any MCD of their choice, subject to the approval of their local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). This is typically a city/county/borough inspection agency. Contact your local AHJ for more information on their specific requirements.

diagram of meter collar standalone configuration

Installation Process for customer installed Meter Collar Devices

  • DERs interconnecting through a customer-owned meter collar require an AC isolation device. Please visit PPL Electric’s REMSI Rule 28 page for additional information.
  • PPL Electric recommends the MCD be installed by a qualified electrician or electrical contractor.
  • If a temporary disconnect/reconnect is required to de-energize the service, contact PPL Electric and provide the customer information and the type of work being performed at the premises. A Work Order Number (WO #) will be provided for the work being performed.
  • The electrician or electrical contractor is responsible for coordinating the service disconnect, meter removal, and service reconnection with the Utility (PPL Electric) and to schedule an inspection with the electrical inspector at the same time as the work is being done to verify the installation and the safety of the electric system prior to the service being re-energized.
  • When the installation passes the electrical inspection, PPL Electric will re-energize the electric service and attach any required warning labels and utility seals/protection devices to the meter and/or meter base.
  • Upon completion of the Meter Collar Device installation, and reconnection of the electric power, PPL Electric recommends the customer follow all guidelines, restrictions and general operating procedures set forth by the manufacturer.

 

Additional Notes for (GENERLINK) and generator:

  • All branch circuit breakers in the electric panel must be in the OFF position before connecting the generator to the GenerLink Transfer Switch Collar. Follow all manufacturers' general operating procedures regarding the identification and isolation of the branch circuits being fed during emergency conditions.
  • The generator must have a 'Floating Neutral' or 'Neutral not Connected to Frame' or similar markings on the unit.
  • The generator must be operated outside, in a well-ventilated area away from doors, windows, air intakes, dryer vents, or any other sources of ingress into the customer's home.
  • PPL Electric recommends the GenerLink device NOT be used on any service that has been damaged by environmental conditions such as but not limited to ice storms, trees fallen on utility lines, or water damage from flooding or any other natural disaster. The device shall not be used if there is any physical damage to the meter base, conduits, or conductors or if the meter base is not properly and securely fastened to the premise structure.