This is a tricky situation, and unfortunately, the utility company often has the final say, even if the electrical inspector passed it. Let's break down the reasons why the utility might be objecting and what you can do about it.

Why the Utility Might Object (Even with a Passed Inspection)



Utility Company Rules vs. NEC/Local Codes

This is the key point. The National Electrical Code (NEC) and local electrical codes are primarily about safety. Utility companies have their own operating rules and policies, which can be more restrictive than the NEC. These rules are about grid stability, billing accuracy, and their infrastructure management. A passed inspection means the electrical installation is safe and meets the minimum code requirements, but it doesn't override the utility's rules.

Billing and Revenue Protection

Having two meters on one building raises immediate flags for the utility. They want to prevent someone from circumventing billing (e.g., using one meter for the house and the other for a business or other use and trying to pay only residential rates on both).

Grid Stability and Load Management

Two services to one building can create issues for the utility's distribution system, especially if the loads are significantly different or uncoordinated. They may have concerns about overloading their equipment, voltage fluctuations, or other grid issues.

Clarity of Ownership and Responsibility

Having two services can muddy the waters regarding who is responsible for what portion of the electrical system.

Why You Thought It Was Okay



Passed Inspection

As mentioned earlier, this only addresses safety and code compliance, not necessarily utility rules.

NEC 230.40 (Exception #2): This is where your situation gets a bit gray. 230.40 deals with the number of services to a building. It states you are only supposed to have one service drop/lateral per building. Exception #2 allows multiple services where a building is large enough to require two services.

What to Do Now


Contact the Utility Company Directly

Don't rely on the field technician. Ask to speak with a supervisor or someone in their engineering or new services department. Explain the situation calmly and clearly. Specifically ask: "What specific utility rule or policy is preventing the second meter connection?" Get it in writing if possible. "What are my options for getting the second service connected?" (There might be a fee, system upgrades required, or other conditions.) Document everything: dates, times, names of people you spoke with, and the substance of the conversations.2.

Review the Utility Company's Service Rules

Look for their published service rules or connection policies online. They often have a section on multiple services to a single property. This may give you a better understanding of their position and potential solutions.3.

Talk to Your Electrical Inspector Again

Explain the utility's objection and ask if they have any experience dealing with similar situations. They may have suggestions or be able to advocate on your behalf, although their authority is limited to code compliance.4.

Consider Alternatives (Depending on Your Need for the Second Meter)



Submetering

If the second meter is for a specific load (e.g., an outbuilding), could you run a sub-metered circuit from your main panel instead? You would pay for all the electricity through the main meter, but you could track the usage of the separate load. This avoids the utility's multiple meter issue.

Load Calculation and Panel Upgrade

If you need more power for the house, could you do a load calculation to determine the existing service's capacity and potentially upgrade the main panel instead? This might be a simpler solution than dealing with the utility's restrictions on multiple meters.5.

Get a Second Opinion

Contact another qualified electrician in your area. They may have dealt with this utility company's rules before and offer a different perspective.

Important Considerations



Be Polite and Professional

Getting angry won't help. Approach the utility company with a desire to understand their concerns and find a solution.

Be Prepared to Negotiate

The utility may be willing to work with you if you can address their concerns about billing, grid stability, or other issues.

It May Require a Compromise: You might have to give up on the second meter or pay for upgrades to their system to make it work.In summary, the utility company's rules often trump local codes. Find out exactly what their objection is, and explore all possible alternatives before investing more time and money into the project. Good luck! Flag for review