Whole Property Generator

[bcoke]

Yes I know it usually is a whole house generator [standby] and I could do two of them..........BUT I have three buildings on property the main power comes off one pole........two services, one to the main house, the other to a house/workshop with a sub panel in the detached garage.........both services are 200 amp panels respectfully..........NOW the big question would it be possible to have one large standby generator at the pole connected with a transfer switch to supply both services with power during a blackout [ these come a few times a year as we are at the end of the line ,so last to get power back] .... I would not run both services using full power, just heat[burners],well,refridge;freezersome lights etc. Has anyone done this????? It would only make sense if less expensive than two separate who house standby systems............Thanks of any and all input>>>>>Bobbycoke

 

[larry_g]

Anything is possible. Your only limiting factor is your wallet. How big of a load are you seeing in the out buildings? Do you want an automatic system or manual?

lg
no neat sig line

 

[wyliesdiesels]

So u want the transfer switch BEFORE the meters?

 

[theoldwizard1]

....two services, one to the main house, the other to a house/workshop ...

So u want the transfer switch BEFORE the meters?

Assuming the term "service" means "meter" Wylie is correct (as usual !)

 

[jconnor3]

That's how my grandparents farm is set up. One big generator by the pole. We store ours though and bring it around with a tractor and there is a special hook-up at the main pole. Sorry I have zero details on it though, just know it's doable.

 

[Stuart in MN]

So u want the transfer switch BEFORE the meters?

It can be done downstream of the meters, but it would require two transfer switches.

 

[bcoke]

AS I am set up now it would be before the meters, but I assumed the meters would have to be moved from the houses to the the pole, than the transfer switch or switchs.........would run on propane off my 1000 gallon tank [buried],,,Of course all electrical work will be done by licensed electrician and with electric company's input........just trying to get the feel of the knowledge we have here on the board so I can ask the right questions of my electrical contractor and have some knowledge of what's right and whats wrong......thanks Bobbycoke

 

[Mustang51js]

You would need two transfer switches with main breakers in them

 

[sberry]

2 services is 1 big disadvantage for backup power on property and so is 400
amp for that matter.

 

[Mustang51js]

Or redo the service where you would have one meter

 

[theoldwizard1]

Or redo the service where you would have one meter

Unless you are getting a special rate for one of them this is the way to go.

Just make sure you have 4 slot - 400A load center mounted close to the one meter. The "transfer switch" (a 400A DPDT safety switch) will cost you an arm and a leg ($,$$$) and it gets mounted between the meter and the load center.

I hope you have deep pockets !

 

[txvwnut]

Price shouldn't be too bad. Then gen set probably runs around 10 to 15k used for your power factor and a switchgear should be around 20 to 30k installed, and will need to be installed between the commercial service(meter) and building(s) being supplied. You'll need a good weather tight building for the switchgear to be installed in too. All of the ones I'm responsible for are in air conditioned buildings so that's something else to consider.

 

[budmur]

If the transfer switches before the meter, you'll still be paying the utility for electricity provided by the generator.