Okay, let's break down this electrical service relocation and temporary power setup for your new construction project. There are several factors to consider, and a smart approach will save time, money, and headaches.

Understanding the Situation



Existing Service

Located in the basement, being demo'ed.

Service Relocation

Moving the service panel to a new location within the basement.

New Construction

3 new stories being built above grade.

Temporary Power Needed

Essential for construction activities.

Key Considerations & Possible Strategies


Temporary Power Source



Existing Service as a Temporary Source (Ideal if Feasible)



Pros

Potentially the quickest and least expensive initial setup. You know it's there and (presumably) functional.

Cons

Risk of disrupting the existing service during demolition, potentially unreliable, might not have sufficient capacity for the full construction load. Needs careful coordination with demolition schedule. You'll need to demo around it carefully.

Steps



Capacity Assessment

Critical. Have a licensed electrician immediately assess the existing service's capacity. Determine the available amperage and voltage. Will it handle the demands of saws, drills, lighting, etc. for the new construction in addition to anything the building is currently using (if it's partially occupied)?

Temporary Subpanel

Install a temporary subpanel connected to the existing service. This subpanel will feed the various construction needs.

Protection

Ensure proper overcurrent protection (breakers) on the temporary subpanel and all branch circuits. Use GFCI protection for all receptacles used in construction areas.

Compliance

Ensure the temporary wiring meets all NEC and local code requirements. Temporary wiring is often allowed to be more flexible (e.g., extension cords in certain situations), but there are still very specific rules.

Demo Coordination

Plan the demolition work very carefully around the existing service. Protect it physically. Have a contingency plan if it gets damaged.

Metering

Consider installing a meter on the temporary service. This allows the owner to accurately track energy consumption during construction.

Temporary Utility Service (Probably Necessary at Some Point)



When to Consider

If the existing service lacks capacity, is unreliable, or the demolition makes it too risky, you'll need a dedicated temporary service from the utility. Also, as construction progresses, you will need to get the new service in and commissioned.

Steps



Contact the Utility Company ASAP

This is critical. Getting a temporary service installed can take weeks or even months, depending on the utility company's workload and local permitting requirements.

Service Location

Work with the utility to determine the optimal location for the temporary service pole/transformer and meter. Consider future use of the location or potential conflicts.

Permits

Obtain all necessary permits from the city/county for the temporary service installation.

Installation

The utility company typically installs the service drop (wires from the power lines to your temporary pole). You (or your electrician) will be responsible for the pole, meter base, and wiring to the temporary subpanel.

Generator (Less Common for This Scenario, but Possible as Backup)



Pros

Independent power source, useful for specific tasks where grid power isn't readily available.

Cons

Fuel costs, noise, maintenance, requires careful grounding and bonding. More suited for smaller, portable power needs.2.

Planning the New Service



Load Calculation

Perform a thorough load calculation for the entire building, including the new floors. This will determine the required service amperage and voltage. Consider future expansion.

Service Entrance Location

The new service location in the basement needs to be accessible and compliant with all code requirements. Consider cable/conduit routes, clearances, and any potential obstructions.

Service Entrance Equipment

Select appropriate service entrance equipment (main breaker panel, meter socket, grounding electrode conductor) based on the load calculation and code requirements.

Permitting and Inspections

Obtain all necessary permits from the city/county for the new service installation. Ensure the installation is inspected and approved by the local electrical inspector.3.

Coordination is Key



Communication

Maintain clear and frequent communication with the owner, demolition contractor, electrician, utility company, and building inspector.

Scheduling

Develop a detailed schedule that coordinates the demolition, temporary power installation, new service installation, and construction activities.

Contingency Plans

Have backup plans in place in case of unexpected delays or problems.

Recommended Steps (in Order)


Engage a Qualified Electrician

Hire a licensed and experienced electrician who is familiar with new construction, service upgrades, and temporary power installations.2.

Initial Assessment

Have the electrician assess the existing service capacity immediately.3.

Utility Contact

Contact the utility company to inquire about temporary and permanent service requirements, lead times, and costs.4.

Load Calculation

Have the electrician perform a load calculation for the entire building.5.

Temporary Power Plan

Develop a detailed temporary power plan with the electrician, specifying the source, subpanel location, wiring methods, and safety measures.6.

Permitting

Obtain all necessary permits for the temporary and permanent service installations.7.

Installation

Install the temporary power system and begin construction.8.

New Service Installation

Coordinate the installation of the new service entrance equipment.9.

Inspection

Schedule inspections for both the temporary and permanent service installations.10.

Transition

Once the new service is approved, transition the power load from the temporary service to the new service.11.

Remove Temporary Service

Remove the temporary service once it is no longer needed.

Important Considerations for the Basement Service Relocation



Flooding

Consider the risk of flooding in the basement. Elevate the service entrance equipment above the potential flood level.

Accessibility

Ensure the service entrance equipment is easily accessible for maintenance and repairs.

Conduit Runs

Plan the conduit runs for the service entrance conductors carefully. Minimize bends and avoid obstructions.

Grounding

Proper grounding is critical for safety. Install a grounding electrode system that meets code requirements.

Labeling: Clearly label all circuits and components in the service entrance equipment.By following these steps and working closely with a qualified electrician and the utility company, you can ensure a safe and reliable power supply for your new construction project. Good luck! Flag for review