Okay, this is a tricky situation with a few potential solutions, but each has its own caveats and requires careful planning and likely coordination with both your utility company and local electrical inspector. Moving the meter base is usually a more complicated project than it initially seems.Here's a breakdown of ideas, considerations, and next steps

Key Considerations Before You Start:
Utility Company Approval is MANDATORY

Absolutely nothing can be done without their explicit approval. Contact them immediately. They have specific requirements for meter base placement, clearances, grounding, and approved equipment. They will likely have a field inspector review your situation. They will tell you what's permissible and what isn't. This is the most important step.

Local Electrical Codes

Your local electrical code (usually based on the NEC) governs the installation. A licensed electrician should be familiar with these codes.

Licensed Electrician

This project almost certainly requires a licensed electrician. Meter base replacements are high-risk (involving the connection to the utility grid) and usually legally require a licensed professional. They'll know the codes, utility requirements, and best practices for safe and compliant installation.

Weatherproofing

Any changes you make must be completely weatherproofed to prevent water damage. This is especially crucial at the siding transition.

Grounding

The grounding system for your electrical service is critical for safety. Any changes to the meter base must maintain or improve the grounding.

Potential Solutions (Discuss with your utility company and electrician)


The "Gutter" (Auxiliary Gutter) Above the Meter Base



How it Works

An auxiliary gutter (a metal enclosure) is installed above the meter base to provide a protected space for the wires to transition horizontally. This allows you to shift the meter base over without moving the mast. The wires would come down from the mast, into the gutter, transition to the meter base location, and then into the meter base.

Pros

Potentially avoids moving the mast. Can be a solution when vertical space is limited.

Cons



Utility Approval is Highly Variable

Some utilities are okay with this, others are absolutely not. It depends on their specific requirements.

Code Compliance

The gutter must be sized correctly to meet NEC fill requirements (the amount of space the wires take up inside the gutter). It must also be properly grounded and weatherproofed.

Cost

Auxiliary gutters can be expensive.

Aesthetics

It might not be the most visually appealing solution.

Important

The gutter needs to be accessible for inspection. It can't be permanently hidden.2.

Meter Base with Hub on the Right



How it Works

A meter base with the hub (the entry point for the wires from the mast) on the right side, instead of the typical top or left. This would allow the wires to come in from the mast in a more direct line, potentially avoiding the need to move the mast or use a gutter.

Pros

Cleanest solution if you can find one. Minimizes wire bending.

Cons



Availability

These are not common. You'll need to do some serious searching to find one that meets your requirements (amperage rating, bypass lever type, etc.). Talk to your electrician and electrical supply houses. They might be able to special order one.

Cost

Likely more expensive than a standard meter base.

Utility Approval

The utility must approve the specific meter base you choose. It has to meet their standards for safety and compatibility.3.

Slight Mast Adjustment



How it Works

Instead of moving the mast a full 2.5 inches, could you move it a smaller amount? Even an inch or so might be enough to make the transition work more smoothly.

Pros

Simpler than a full relocation. Might be less visually intrusive than a gutter.

Cons

Requires careful measurement and planning. Still requires utility approval. May involve adjusting the mast supports/bracing.4.

Panel Relocation (Even a Small One)



How it Works

Instead of focusing only on the meter base and mast, consider if you can shift the panel slightly to better align with the new meter base position. This could involve extending some circuits.

Pros

Could be the most code-compliant and aesthetically pleasing solution. Provides an opportunity to inspect and upgrade the panel if needed.

Cons

More complex and expensive than just moving the meter base. Requires careful circuit mapping and planning. May require longer wire runs.5.

Consider a Different Meter Base

Although you state a lever bypass meter base is required, is that the only option? Perhaps a different model has a more favorable wire entry location. Discuss this with the utility and your electrician.

Steps to Take


Contact the Utility Company

This is absolutely first. Explain your situation and ask about their requirements for meter base placement and any approved alternative solutions (like gutters). Get their feedback on the proposed solutions above. They will likely send a field inspector to assess the site.2.

Consult with a Licensed Electrician

Have them assess the situation, review the utility's requirements, and develop a detailed plan. Get a written estimate. Make sure they're familiar with local codes and utility practices.3.

Gather Information

Get the exact model number and specifications for the new meter base. This information is essential for planning and discussing options with the utility and electrician.4.

Prepare Detailed Drawings/Sketches

Create accurate drawings showing the existing conditions, the proposed changes, and the location of the siding transition. This will help the utility and electrician understand the project.5.

Obtain Permits

The electrician will handle the permit process, but make sure all necessary permits are obtained before any work begins.6.

Schedule the Work

Coordinate with the utility and electrician to schedule the work. The utility will likely need to disconnect and reconnect power.

Important Safety Considerations



Never work on electrical service equipment yourself unless you are a qualified and licensed electrician. This is extremely dangerous and potentially fatal. Always de-energize the circuit before working on any electrical components. Even with the main breaker off, the service wires from the utility are still live.* Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including insulated gloves and safety glasses.

Good luck with your project! Remember that patience and clear communication with the utility and your electrician are key to a successful outcome. Flag for review