Austin Energy Design Criteria

City of Austin Electric Utility

Austin Energy

Design Criteria

Effective December 12th, 2023

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................... 3

RELEVANT CITY OF AUSTIN BUSINESS OFFICES ............................................ 4

BASIC REQUIREMENTS OF ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION SERVICE ........................ 6

REQUESTING/OBTAINING ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION SERVICE ....................... 14

TYPES OF PERMANENT ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION SERVICE ........................... 25

STREET LIGHTING .................................................................................. 69

TEMPORARY DISTRIBUTION POWER .......................................................... 72

CUSTOMER ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS ................ 75

METERING ............................................................................................ 82

CLEARANCE AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS .................................................. 97

DISTRIBUTION NETWORK TRANSFORMER VAULTS .................................... 110

DISTRIBUTED GENERATION INTERCONNECTION ....................................... 117

SMALL CELL INTERCONNECTION............................................................. 120

TRANSMISSION AND SUBSTATION REQUIREMENTS ................................... 121

DISTRICT ENERGY AND COOLING ........................................................... 133

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR AUSTIN ENERGY LAND DEVELOPMENT

REVIEW .............................................................................................. 135

GLOSSARY .......................................................................................... 137

APPENDIX AND EXHIBITS ...................................................................... 145

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this Design Criteria Manual (“Design Criteria” or “Manual”) is to provide criteria, guidelines,

definitions, and descriptions approved by the City of Austin (COA) City Council for: 1) the design and

installation of the Customer’s electric facilities that will be served by the City of Austin Electric Utility

Department doing business as Austin Energy, hereinafter referred to as Austin Energy (or AE), and 2) the

safety and reliability requirements that must be adhered to when developing in proximity to existing or

planned electric facilities maintained by AE (i.e., Austin Energy’s electric system).

The information contained in this Design Criteria must be used for the design and installation of electrical

services in the AE service area. This Design Criteria does not attempt to cover all the situations that might be

encountered, required, or requested concerning the construction/installation of an electric service. Specific

design requirements and final approval of any installation must be coordinated directly with the appropriate

AE business unit which include:

(A) Distribution Design (AE Design);

(B) Spots & Conduit;

(D) Pole Attachment Services; and

(E) AE District Cooling.

Any apparent discrepancy, omission, error, or requirement necessitating further explanation or interpretation

in this Design Criteria should be referred to AE Design for final explanation or determination of AE

requirements.

The AE Design Criteria is available online at no cost. Go to the website Austinenergy.com, then go to

Contractors – Electric Service Design & Planning – “Download a free copy of the Austin Energy Design Criteria

Manual (pdf)”.

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

RELEVANT CITY OF AUSTIN BUSINESS OFFICES

Following is a list of the relevant City of Austin (COA)/Austin Energy business offices including addresses and

phone numbers:

AE CALL CENTER 512-494-9400

AE PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT 512-322-6442

AE KEY ACCOUNTS keyaccounts@austinenergy.com

AE ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION BUSINESS UNITS:

ST. ELMO SERVICE CENTER (SOUTH)

4411-B Meinardus Drive

512-505-7500

KRAMER LANE SERVICE CENTER (NORTH)

2526 Kramer Lane, Bldg C

512-505-7000

Distribution Design South: (South of

969/MLK/Windsor Rd.) 4411-B Meinardus Drive -

Request for changes to AE infrastructure, power to

sites in the South area

512-505-7682

All requests for changes to AE distribution

electrical infrastructure or designs for power

to sites will submit to our Design Intake.

Distribution Design North: (North of

969/MLK/Windsor Rd. 2412 Kramer Lane, Bldg C –

Request for changes to AE infrastructure, power to

sites in the North area

512-505-7181

(Design Intake

)

Distribution Network Design (Downtown Austin)

4411-B Meinardus Drive - Request for changes to

AE infrastructure, power to sites in the downtown

Network area.

512-505-7682

(Design Intake

)

Distribution Standards AEDistributionStandards@austinenergy.com

Requests for distribution equipment

purchasing specifications, construction

standards, new product reviews, design

guides, and other internal common

documents are submitted through

Distribution Standards Intake.

Development Assistance Center (Permitting &

Development Center)

aebspaespa@austinenergy.com

Spot and Conduit (Point of Attachment)

North & South

aeelectricspots@austinenergy.com

All Streetlights (North & South) Call 311

Work Management North, Civil Inspections

North – Schedules installation of AE infrastructure,

civil inspections, for the North area.

kramerwm@austinenergy.com

Work Management South, Civil Inspections

South – Schedules installation of AE infrastructure,

civil inspections, for the South area.

[email protected]

Civil Inspection, North & South Major Ductbanks,

downtown Network civil Inspections

512-505-7008

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

AE Distribution Metering Operations –

Metering equipment - Metering equipment

information and general metering questions

for

large residential and large commercial

aedistributionmetering@austinenergy.com

AE Distribution Metering Dispatch

Scheduling CT Inspections, 2500 Montopolis

Drive

[email protected]

Advanced Metering Systems &

Engineering – Modular metering, solar

variances, metering specifications, and general

advanced metering questions. 2500

Montopolis

Drive

AEAdvancedMeteringEngineering@austinenergy.com

AE Service Dispatch (North & South)

Controlled Service Outages

(Disconnect/Reconnect)

StElmoDistribution@austinenergy.com

aecorequest@austinenergy.com

AE Solar Inspections

solarinspections@austinenergy.com

Electric Transmission and Substation

2526 Kramer Lane, Bldg C

512-322-6442

Pole Attachment Services

Infrastructure Agreements, Applications, and Construction

Program Manager

512-322-6160

512-322-6396

District Cooling (On-Site Energy Resources)

Email: OSERSubmittals@austinenergy.com

Downtown: 512-914-3997

Domain: 512-987-4421

Mueller: 512-658-7395

COA Development Services Department

6310 Wilhelmina Delco Dr (Permitting &

Development Center

Call 311 / DSDHelp@austintexas.gov

512-974-2000, if outside the City limits

Austin 311 512-974-2000

Building Inspection Division (Electrical

Inspection) – Schedule electrical inspection.

512-974-9405

Austin Build + Connect - Obtain permits, pay for

permits, and schedule inspections online.

https://abc.austintexas.gov/web/permit

One Call – Call before you dig!

City of Austin – 911 Addressing

To create a 911 address

Call 811

addressing@austintexas.gov

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

BASIC REQUIREMENTS OF ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION SERVICE

Section 1.3.0 discusses the general characteristics and conditions and the basic requirements that apply to all

the types of electric service that AE provides from the AE distribution system. (See 1.17.0 Glossary)

AE Electric Distribution Service Voltages and Maximum Demand Ampacities

A. Underground/Vault Network Service Voltages and Maximum Demand Ampacities

for Residential and Commercial Only in Network Area. Electric service is normally

available in the AE Network Area (see map in Section 1.11.5) as shown in Table 1.5.1.2.

(See Section 1.3.2.)

B. Commercial Electric Service Voltages and Maximum Demand Ampacities.

Commercial electric service is normally available in non-residential AE service areas

(excluding network) as shown in Table 1.5.2.2. (See Section 1.3.2.)

C. Residential Electric Service Voltage and Maximum Demand Ampacity. Electric

residential service is normally available in the AE service area (excluding network) as shown

in Table 1.5.3.2. (See Section 1.3.2.)

Availability of AE Facilities

Not all service voltages, service styles, or demand ampacities are available at all locations. The

characteristics of electric service (voltage, number of phases, capacity, and so forth) that are available and

can be supplied at a given location are the sole determination and judgment of AE Design. (Contact AE

Design for additional information.)

One Point of Service and One Service Voltage

As a standard service, AE supplies one point of service, at one service voltage, to a single building or point

of service, located on a single lot or tract of land. The electric service must be of sufficient ampacity and

capacity to provide power to all buildings or structures located on the same single tract of land. An

additional service drop for either temporary or permanent services may be approved by AE Spots and

Conduit and/or AE Design, respectively. Some other exceptions allowing multiple points of service are

noted in this Design Criteria based upon load size, building size, and building occupancy. Additional

exceptions may be allowed under the requirements for Excess Facilities/Excess Cost Policy (See Section

1.3.13). Exceptions that are not expressly allowed under this Design Criteria Manual must be reviewed

and approved by the AE Design or Spot/Conduit department.

Note: For Network Area Vault(s), on a single lot or tract of land, Network Design will allow each building

located on the same single lot or tract of land to house its own network vault(s). This exemption does not

apply to services that are 800 Amps or less of 120/208V that are located within the Network Area.

Point of Service (POS)

Unless otherwise specified by AE Design or specified in the Agreement for Electric Service (Letter of

Agreement), the point of service is the point (meter socket, pedestal, service distribution enclosure, pull-

box, or other AE-approved enclosure) at which AE's and Customer's conductors are connected or

terminated. (AE will make these connections/terminations.)

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

Electrical Facility Ownership

Unless otherwise agreed to in writing, Austin Energy owns all electric facilities in the public right of way and

the Customer and AE owns all electric facilities on their respective sides of the point of service with the

exception of the meter, which in all cases AE will own. AE and the Customer shall generally assume all

maintenance and operation responsibilities of the facilities on their respective sides of the point of service.

AE takes ownership and has full exclusive rights to use all civil work that is installed by the customer and

AE for the purpose of installing AE infrastructure. For customer-installed civil work, AE takes ownership at

the passing of AE inspection.

AE is not required to perform maintenance on the Customer’s electrical

facilities beyond the point of service or easements.

The Customer must grant AE an electrical easement, using standard City forms and signed by the property

owner, which allows AE access for installation and maintenance of AE-installed and owned electrical

facilities starting at the property line as determined by AE Design.

All easement documents must be prepared by the AE Public Involvement business unit and mailed to the

owner(s) for a signature. The completed documents must be returned to AE before AE begins installation

of electrical facilities on the Customer’s property.

NOTE: All pad-mounted and vault equipment (transformers, switchgear, and such) must be installed on the

Customer’s property.

Based on City Code Section 15-9-37. By accepting electric service from AE, the Customer accepts and

grants to AE the construction, placement, and maintenance access rights for these facilities (see also

Section 10 – Clearance and Safety Requirements and specifically Section 1.10.10 Customer Activities in

Utility Easements.)

Color Coding of Customer’s Service Conductors

Color coding of Customer’s service conductors must be as follows in Table 1.3.7. [Phase arrangement shall

be (A), (B), (C), front to back, top to bottom, or left to right, as viewed from the front of the service

equipment and metering equipment. (N) shall be neutral.]:

TABLE 1.3.7

COLOR CODING OF CUSTOMER’S SERVICE CONDUCTORS

Phase

Service Type

A B C N

120/240V, Single-Phase, 3-Wire

RED BLACK

WHITE

120/240V, 3-Phase, 4-Wire, DELTA

Through Metering Equipment (see

Note 2 and Note 3)

RED BLACK

ORANGE

(High-Leg)

WHITE

In Service Equipment RED

ORANGE

(High-Leg)

BLACK WHITE

120/208V, Single-Phase, 3-Wire (Note 1) (Note 1) (Note 1) WHITE

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

120/208V, 3-Phase, 4-Wire, Wye RED BLACK BLUE WHITE

277/480V, 3-Phase, 4-Wire, Wye BROWN YELLOW PURPLE

NATURAL

GRAY

Green must be used for the grounding conductor only.

Marking of conductors at all termination points will be approved for sizes #6 AWG and larger.

NOTE 1: Per City Code, Section 25-12-114, 310.110(C)(1)-Conductor Identification– ALL COLORS MUST

BE CONSISTENT THROUGHOUT EACH SYSTEM. (Four-wire wye secondary services from AE to multiple

occupancy buildings require that the Customer install wiring to each occupant that satisfies the color

consistency requirement of this section. (Contact COA Development Services Building Inspections

division.) Where three-phase service is used to provide single-phase service to individual occupants, the

load must be balanced between the phases as required by the latest edition of the NEC.

Note 2: Where an Austin Energy transformer serves multiple meter banks, Austin Energy shall label (tag

kit) all secondary service conductors as the meter bank that it serves. Customer shall label secondary

service conductors at the meter bank as the transformer that serves it. (Austin Energy will provide this

inspection).

NOTE 3: On 120/240 volt, three-phase, 4-Wire, Delta connected CT services, the high leg must be pulled

through the CT in the C phase position. If the high leg is pulled in the center CT, AE will not accept the

installation. (See Section 1.5.2.4.B.10.)

NOTE 4: High-leg Phase Conductors. Particular attention must be given to marking high-leg phase

conductors feeding from a 3-phase, 4-wire, 120/240V delta secondary source. The high-leg shall be

effectively identified in accordance with NEC 230-56 (marked by orange tape).

The high-leg shall always be connected as follows:

In meter sockets, including

pre-wired transockets

To the right-hand terminals

In CT enclosures To either the right hand CT (left to right) or

the bottom CT (top to bottom)

In service equipment To the center bus

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

Customer Electrical Facilities that Cross Property Lines

A Customer may not extend or connect any electrical facilities served from AE electric energy sources

across property lines to a Customer's installation on another property or across, under, or through a public

street, alley, right of way, public space or other private space in order to provide electric service for this

adjacent property. However, a Customer who owns physically adjacent properties that are developed and

operated as a unified development may extend or connect the installation to lines across or under the

property lines of said adjacent properties as interpreted by AE in order to serve said properties through

one point of service.

Such a single point of service shall be maintained only as long as the physically adjacent tracts remain

operated as a unified development. Pursuant to City Code, Section 15-9-123, AE may discontinue service

to a Customer in violation of these provisions until AE determines that any unauthorized connections have

been removed. In addition, AE may require that the initial installation allow for and that the Customer

maintains provisions for providing electric service to the separate properties (with easements and such as

determined by AE) in the event of a future cessation of operation as a unified development.

Single-Phase/Three-Phase Service

Single-phase 120/240V service is the basic standard electric service provided throughout the AE service

area (except network). Three-phase service is furnished only where the Customer's load and equipment

warrants a three-phase service and where AE has the necessary facilities installed and available.

NOTE: The Customer is responsible for installing devices to protect the Customer’s three-phase equipment

from ‘single-phasing’, which is the loss of one phase.

See also Section 1.5.2.4.B.11 and 12.

Note: For disconnect and meter room requirements, refer to Section 1.8.0 & 1.9.0. Any deviation requires

advanced written approval from Distribution Metering Operations prior to construction.

EXCEPTION: For 277/480V three-phase self-contained meter sockets and for 480V three-phase, or any

low voltage secondary voltage service above 300V up to 600V phase to phase or leg to leg, a service load

break disconnect switch shall be installed in close proximity to and on the line side (ahead) of the metering

equipment. [Line-Disconnect-Meter-Load]

NOTE: Customer changes/upgrades to existing service entrance facilities on the Customer’s side of the

point of service (such as replacing the main disconnect switch) may require that the entire service

entrance is brought up to current code requirements. Check with the COA Development Services

Department Building Inspections division.

Voltage Stability and Continuity

AE does not supply the special or conditioned power requirements required by some Customer loads such

as computers and specialized electronic equipment. The Customer shall provide and maintain equipment,

on the load side (after) of the metering equipment, which ensures the additional voltage stability and

continuity necessary for the Customer’s equipment [such as UPS Systems (Uninterruptible Power

Supplies)].

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

Electric Service Reliability

AE will use reasonable diligence to supply steady and continuous service consistent with good

management and construction practices, but does not guarantee the service against irregularities,

interruptions, or variations. While most equipment and devices are designed and built to operate on a wide

band of supply voltage, AE will endeavor to maintain the voltage level within industry-accepted standards,

±5% at the point of service. However, AE will incur no liability to the Customer for failure to comply with

this service standard.

AE Line Extension Policy

In accordance with Austin City Council Resolution No. 20140612-057, Austin Energy collects 100% of the

costs for line extensions and new infrastructure associated with requests for new electric service, with an

exemption for certain affordable housing. A Customer applying for new service will be charged all

estimated costs for labor and material required to modify existing infrastructure and to extend service

from Austin Energy’s existing infrastructure to the Customer’s point of service to serve the requested load,

sometimes referred to as “Contributions in Aid of Construction”, or “CIAC”. This includes the service drop

and meter.

Customers seeking an affordable housing exemption for all or a portion of these costs must provide Austin

Energy with documentation from the Housing and Planning Department demonstrating that the Customer’s

premises meet City standards for affordable housing under the S.M.A.R.T. Housing Program as described

in the City of Austin Land Development Code. If the affordable housing standard is met, a waiver shall be

applied to the portion of the line extension fees attributed to serving the affordable housing portion of the

development according to the following calculation formula:

Line Extension Fees * % of Development that is Residential Affordable Housing Based on Housing Units.

Projects containing at least 75% of the overall residential portion as affordable shall receive

100% fee waiver for the residential portion of the project. For these projects, residential

amenities, service and common areas, and accessory spaces are considered part of the

residential portion of the development.

For mixed use development, the % of Development that is Residential Affordable Housing

should be based on the combined residential and commercial square footage (i.e., the entire

building area) so that the fee waiver only applies to the residential portion of the development.

Affordable live/work units will be considered 100% residential for this calculation.

Waivers for affordable housing in PUDs are only applicable when new affordable housing units

are built.

The line extension fees that are subject to the waiver is limited to costs associated with standard electric

service. Any excess costs and/or excess facilities that exceed what Austin Energy would provide as

adequate and reliable standard electric service to serve the Customer’s electrical demand and energy needs

must be paid by the Customer in full as outlined in the current Council Approved Fee Schedule and Austin

Energy’s Excess Cost Policy. If a Customer that receives a waiver under the affordable housing exemption

fails to meet their affordable housing obligations, the previously waived fees must be returned to Austin

Energy in full.

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

AE Excess Facilities/Excess Cost Policy

The quantity and size of AE electric distribution infrastructure on the AE side of the point of service is at

AE's discretion. Regarding equipment and material sizing, Austin Energy is bound to the National Electric

Safety Code but not to the National Electric Code for facilities on the utility side of the point of service.

Excess cost applies to anything requested by the Customer that exceeds what AE would provide as

adequate and reliable standard electric service to serve the Customer’s electrical demand and energy

needs. This cost applies but is not limited to Customer requests for conversion of overhead to underground

service, excess transformer capacity, equipment / work to increase reliability, specific placement or

routing of AE facilities, relocations/removals of AE facilities, additional points of service, and other similar

services. The Customer will be required to pay the full amount of any excess facilities and/or excess costs

including any applicable fees as outlined in the current Council Approved Fee Schedule, Customer-

requested and necessitated overtime, and any anticipated future operating costs.

For underground service, AE requires that the Customer install all civil work for the AE facilities.

Any specialized service agreement, such as dedicated feeds and dual feed services, is between Austin

Energy and the customer who is a party to the agreement. This type of agreement is not transferrable and

is not assigned to a new customer. Once an electric account is closed or transferred to a new owner, the

specialized service agreement is terminated, and the service is converted to a standard service that is

sufficient to serve the new customer. If the new customer would like the specialized service, they must

ensure that they have the necessary skills and resources to maintain the specialized service in order to

prevent adverse effects on the electric grid and must enter into a new agreement with Austin Energy for

that service.

Taxes

The comptroller has termed the amount charged by utilities as reimbursement for the infrastructure

necessary to deliver utilities to customers as “Contributions in Aid of Construction (CIAC).” If the person

paying the CIAC also purchases utility service delivered by the infrastructure, the CIAC is considered part of

the cost of providing utility service and is taxable to the extent that the utility service is taxable. This is

dependent upon on how the account is set up as commercial accounts are taxable but residential accounts

are not. If the person making the CIAC reimbursement will not purchase electricity or does not know if such

a person will purchase electricity, then the CIAC is not taxable. To be free of tax liability, the developer

must provide an exemption certificate specifically claiming the CIAC is for development purposes and is not

related to the purchase of electricity. This certificate clears the utility of responsibility for collecting the

sales tax if deemed the CIAC is taxable at a later date.

Front Lot Line Construction Requirement

AE requires that all new construction of AE primary voltage overhead and underground facilities be

installed such that they are “truck-accessible” both for construction and for any future maintenance or

modification. This normally necessitates that these AE facilities be installed at the front of the Customer’s

property or adjacent to a street, road, or other paved surface. Rear lot line construction for new areas will

only be permitted where there are paved alleys or other permanent roadways that are AE truck accessible.

(See Section 1.3.16).

Access to AE Facilities

Truck access to the site where AE equipment will be installed, as required by the specific project, shall be

provided by the customer with a minimum horizontal width of 12 feet and a minimum vertical clearance of

16 feet. Where access is by a paved road or another all-weather prepared surface, the surface shall be

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

capable of supporting, without damage to the road or surface, a total vehicle weight of 72,180 pounds with

a maximum rear axle weight of 32,530 pounds. Set-up area in front of equipment shall be a minimum

space of 20 feet x 35 feet and a minimum vertical clearance of 35 feet. For all vehicle types that AE may

potentially use to maintain and install AE infrastructure, AE vehicles must have the ability to turn around or

exit the property. See Section 1.10.0 for clearance requirements above and around equipment. All AE

equipment shall be located a minimum of 2 feet above the 100-year floodplain as defined in the latest COA

Land Development Code (LDC).

Non-conforming Conditions

Austin Energy requires that customers adhere to the provisions of the applicable NEC, NESC, City of Austin

Code and Austin Energy Design Criteria Manual at the time of installation. To the extent that the

requirements of the Austin Energy Design Criteria Manual exceed the requirements of the NEC, NESC and

City of Austin Code, Austin Energy has discretion to allow existing site conditions that do not conform to the

full requirements of the Design Criteria Manual (Non-conforming Conditions) to continue if such Non-

conforming Conditions do not violate the provisions of the currently applicable NEC, NESC and City Code,

and if it can be determined that such conditions do not create an unsafe situation, do not negatively impact

Austin Energy’s ability to safely and efficiently operate and maintain its electric infrastructure, and do not

disrupt or negatively impact Austin Energy processes. Customer must receive written approval from Austin

Energy for such waivers.

Austin Energy Construction Standards

All installations on the utility side of the point of service must be installed according to the Austin Energy

construction standards, which contain the applicable construction standard for each installation as

determined by Austin Energy. Any variance from the construction standard must be approved by Austin

Energy in writing. To request information on the construction standards, contact the Austin Energy

Distribution Standards business unit.

Relocation of AE Facilities

Where feasible, AE will temporarily (or permanently) relocate AE facilities at the Customer’s expense. Such

relocations often require considerable planning and effort. The Customer should consult with AE Design at

the beginning of the project for both construction power and permanent service.

Relocation of distribution lines and associated equipment is performed pursuant to utility needs and

operations, not at the request of a property owner/customer/developer, such as for the purpose of space or

convenience. Austin Energy will not, at a property owner’s request, temporarily or permanently relocate

distribution lines from being on or adjacent to one property to being on or adjacent to another property

without written consent of the property owner to which the distribution lines would be relocated adjacent

to. Obtaining this written consent and easement is the responsibility of the property owner making the

request.

Customer Switchover Policy

In a dually certified service area, a Customer is required to pay all current balances before being

disconnected from the AE system. The Customer will also be required to pay, in advance, for any costs

associated with the disconnection of service. There will not be a disconnect fee in addition to the above

costs. A Customer switching to the AE system from another system will be required to present a receipt or

other evidence from the disconnecting utility that all current charges for electric service and for the service

disconnection have been paid.

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

Three Mega-Watt Demand and Larger Customer Requirements

The requirements for Customers requesting service for three (3) mega-watts or more of maximum

demand load (as requested by the Customer or estimated by AE Design) may require additional

infrastructure to support the load requirements.

Underground Only Service Areas (Non-Network Areas)

Some areas or developments may have developer commitments to underground (where only underground

is available) or community/city-imposed restrictions that obligate the Customer to request underground

service from AE. The Customer must still meet the conditions and pay any additional costs required by AE

in Sections 1.3.12 and 1.3.13 and this Design Criteria for underground service. Contact AE Design.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Austin Energy complies with the ADA regarding the installation of all new Austin Energy facilities.

Easements for Electric Distribution Facilities

Austin Energy obtains easements to ensure that it has the property rights necessary for the safe

construction, operation, maintenance, and access to its electric distribution facilities and to ensure that

necessary required clearances are maintained. These easements cover the physical location of the

distribution facilities, the area needed to access its facilities, areas needed for construction, operation and

maintenance of AE’s facilities, and areas that, if developed, would violate required electrical clearances, or

interfere with access to AE facilities. If electric distribution easements that were obtained in the past are

not adequate to provide these protections, then AE works to expand existing easements or obtain

additional easements.

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REQUESTING/OBTAINING ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION SERVICE

Section 1.4.0 provides the general process and customer requirements for obtaining electric service from

Austin Energy.

AE Service Area Questions

The AE Call Center (512-494-9400) is the first place to call when applying for service in order to establish

billing information concerning a new service request (or to request electric service reconnects and

disconnects).

For locations outside of the City of Austin and for any location where there is a question as to which electric

utility will be the service provider, the Customer should contact the AE Public Involvement business unit or

Development Assistance Center. AE Public Involvement will determine if the service location is within the

Austin Energy service area and provide an Electric Service Availability Letter (if requested) confirming that

the point of service location is in the Austin Energy service area.

Electric Distribution Service Requests

The necessary steps to obtain a new electrical service or for modifications to existing electrical

infrastructure is described in the following sections. All infrastructure shall be built according to the

applicable Austin Energy Distribution and Network Construction Standards and meet all requirements

specified in this Criteria Manual. Network service is only available in the designated downtown Network

Area. See the AE Network Area Map for areas served by AE network facilities.

Customers may submit requests online on the Austin Energy Design Intake Form. This form can be located

on the Austin Energy website.

Electric Service Planning Application (ESPA) and Building Service Planning

Application (BSPA) and Distributed Generation Planning Application (DGPA)

An ESPA (Electric Service Planning Application) must be submitted to the appropriate Austin Energy

Design business unit, along with all required documents, to obtain a design for electric power to new

developments and for changes to existing electric services. The ESPA is also required by the City of

Austin Development Services Department to obtain an Electric Permit. The ESPA can be obtained online

at www.austinenergy.com

, from the Development Assistance Center, or from the AE Design

Department.

A BSPA (Building Service Planning Application) is required by Austin Energy and is collected by the City

of Austin Development Services Department to obtain a building Permit. The BSPA is available online at

the City of Austin Development Services Department website under the Residential Building Review

section or at the Development Assistance Center (DAC) kiosk.

Where installing a distributed generation (DG) system that will interconnect ahead of the AE meter,

submit an approved Distributed Generation Planning Application (DGPA) with the ESPA. If the DG

system subsequently changes, a new DGPA and new a ESPA must be submitted. (See Distributed

Generation Interconnection section.)

New Customer Demand Load Determination

On the ESPA submitted by the customer to Austin Energy, the Customer must specify the total

undiversified connected demand load for each equipment item or load category so that AE can

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appropriately size the AE electrical service facilities.

In the Network Area, the sum of the total maximum nameplate rating of service disconnects or circuit

breaker must be used for Customer load determination. Rating of the disconnected equipment must

be determined from the nameplate maximum ampacity rating, not the fuse/circuit breaker or relay

setting. The maximum number of disconnects must be in accordance with the currently-effective

NEC.

Service-Only for Services Equal to or Under 350 Amps Single-Phase or 225 Amps

Three-Phase in the Non-Network Area.

Section 1.4.2.3 provides the general process and customer requirements for obtaining electric service

from Austin Energy for services sized equal to or under 350 amp single-phase or 225 amp three-phase

in the non-network area where service size is per the total number of disconnects or maximum rating

of the manufacturer’s nameplate, not the fuse/circuit breaker or relay setting,

Submit a completed ESPA to the Development Assistance Center along with a plot plan.

Include a scaled elevation drawing for any structures that exceed a single story. One

Stop will evaluate the customer’s electrical needs and the service already available at

the site to determine if the service can be provided as a “Service-Only”. If One Stop

determines that the project requires more electrical infrastructure than is described as

“service-only”, the project will be forwarded to the appropriate Austin Energy Design

business units.

“Service Only” to Residence or Commercial Customers applies to non-network areas

where adequate AE facilities are available at the location where the electric service drop

or service lateral requirements are needed as determined by the combined main

disconnect capacity using the manufacture’s ratings. (Note: If the load is more than

320 amps continuous, then the service must be upgraded to instrument-rated CT

service and go through the Design Intake/Submittal process). The Customer should

contact the AE Development Assistance Support for ESPA approval and to determine

service availability and service requirements.

a. For requests for new “Service Only” electric service connections in the City of

Austin planning jurisdiction, the customer must submit a completed ESPA to the

City Development Assistance Center and receive written approval in order to obtain

an electrical permit to commence work on any electrical equipment. Once the

installed electrical equipment passes electrical inspection and all permits are closed

out, the customer may apply for temporary or permanent electric service through

Austin Energy’s Call Center.

b. If the spot cannot be completed due to the new construction or new addition

framing, the customer must contact the AE Spot & Conduit Section (via email

aeelectricspots@austinenergy.com

) before starting any electrical installation to

request spotting of the point-of-attachment for overhead services or point of

service location for underground service laterals once framing is complete. An AE

Field Ops Consult Fee will be assessed if any work begins prior to an approved spot

location.

For requests for new electric service connections in which the customer is remodeling,

constructing, or modifying a structure, the customer is required to submit a completed

BSPA and required plot plan, elevation drawings, and survey identifying all existing

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December 12, 2023

electric facilities and gas meter to residential plan review for building construction

(Residential Intake submittal can be found by using the

Residential Building Permit Web

Form). The BSPA is only needed when the exterior of a structure is being modified or a

new structure is being added to the residential site.

For electric service requests made through the expedited City of Austin process, the

customer must submit a completed ESPA to the Development Assistance Center. Upon

approval of the ESPA, the customer is eligible to receive electric service from Austin

Energy once all permits are issued and inspections are closed out.

The customer must submit a completed ESPA to the Development Assistance Center and

receive written approval in order to obtain an electrical permit to commence work on

any electrical equipment. Once the installed electrical equipment passes electrical

inspection and all permits are closed out, the customer may apply for temporary or

permanent electric service through Austin Energy’s Call Center.

Determining Meter Location and Point of Service for “Service Only” to Single Unit

Residential and Small Commercial. (Single-phase 120/240V electric service of 350

amps or less or three-phase electric service of 225 amps or less of combined main

disconnect capacity as determined by the manufacturer’s equipment rating.)

a. The Customer must contact the AE Spot & Conduit business unit to identify the

point of service location prior to beginning electrical work. Spot & Conduit will

provide the attachment height information and the point of service location for

underground service laterals. The Customer must obtain this information before

starting any electrical installation.

b. The AE Spot & Conduit business unit designates the point of attachment (not the

meter location) for residential services up to 3 meters and approves the ESPA form

for new single unit residences and for small commercial. Please email

aeelectricspots@austinenergy.com

(The Spot & Conduit business unit will refer the

service request to AE Design for large services, for all services to five meters or

more, or if any construction other than installing a service drop or a service lateral

is required.)

c. The point of attachment (the point where the AE service contacts the Customer’s

structure or building) shall be located on a permanent building or structure at a

point nearest AE’s closest suitable voltage source (such as a pole, service box,

pull-box, or transformer). Multiple meters shall be grouped at one location.

d. The Spot & Conduit business unit will leave a suitable marker (such as spot card or

stake) to identify the location of the point of service. The marker shall remain on

site adjacent to the point or service location until after the final COA electrical

inspection has been completed.

The Spot & Conduit business unit will also inspect the residential or commercial

underground service conduit installed by the Customer (if any) ahead of the AE meter.

Customers are prohibited from backfilling a trench or encasing 90-degree bend(s) or

conduit until the inspection has been completed and approved. The service will not be

installed and energized until the conduit is covered and the trench backfilled. For all

underground services fed out of an underground pull box, the pull box that feeds the

service must be located and exposed.

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NOTE: Commercial customers must install, own, and maintain their underground

service lateral (see 1.5.2.2).

Meter Equipment Installations. Prior to purchasing and installing any equipment, the

Customer must contact the AE Distribution Metering Operation business unit for

approval of the service equipment. See 1.9.0 – Metering section for requirements.

Connection of Service - AE will schedule the new service for installation after the

Customer has completed the following:

1. Applied for electric service with AE.

2. Obtained approval of ESPA and/or BSPA from Development Assistance Center, AE

Spots and Conduit, or AE Design

3. Obtained a COA electric permit and all required permits.

4. Completed all work per the requirements of the AE Spots & Conduit business unit

and the AE Metering business unit.

5. Passed all the required inspections.

6. Applied for Service and set up an account with Austin Energy.

AE should receive notification of a passed electrical inspection from the COA (and all

other governing entities) three regular working days before the service can be

energized. (Call COA Permit and License Center or the AE St. Elmo Dispatch Office for

information concerning the status of the required permits and inspections.)

WorkFlow Process for “Service Only” Services and Services Equal to or Under 350 Amps

Single-Phase or 225 Amps Three-Phase.

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Design for Services Over 350 Amp Single-Phase or 225 Amp Three-Phase, All

Projects in the Network Area, and All Service Requiring an Austin Energy Design,

Section 1.4.2.4 provides the general process and customer requirements for obtaining electric service

from Austin Energy for services sized over 350 amp single-phase or 225 amp three-phase in the non-

network area. (Instructions for submitting requests for these services or designs for changes to Austin

Energy infrastructure can be found on the Austin Energy website.)

Submit a completed ESPA to the appropriate Austin Energy Design Intake business unit

with supporting documents according to the following project types. Additional drawings

and information may be requested depending on the nature of the request. Project

drawings submitted by customers must be according to the section titled “Customer

Drawings Specifications”. The processes described below is separate from the Land

Development application process and may result in modifications to an approved site

development application to meet the electric design, safety, and reliability requirements

found in this manual.

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i. Apartments, Commercial, Multifamily, Mixed Use, and Subdivisions – Submit

AutoCAD project drawing of the approved site plan, a riser diagram, and 911

address verification form. For multi-storied infrastructures elevation plans may be

requested.

ii. Relocation/Removal/Maintenance of Existing Infrastructure – Submit a brief

description of the project needs, the addresses affected, and AE pole/equipment

number(s). Relocations/Removal due to site projects require an AutoCAD drawing

of the approved site plan. For multi-storied infrastructures elevation plans may be

requested.

iii. Streetlights – Submit a brief description of the lighting needs and the addresses

affected. (See section 1.6.0 titled “Street Lighting”)

Determining Meter Location and Point of Service. AE Design will determine the meter

location(s) and point(s) of service.

a. Prior to purchasing and installing any equipment, the Customer shall contact the

AE Distribution Metering Operation business unit for approval of the service

equipment. See 1.9.0 – Metering section for requirements.

Inspection of Any Required Customer-Installed Civil Work. AE Work Management

inspects all non-Network underground installations for developments that exceeds the

‘service only’ requirements where AE installs conductors in customer-installed facilities,

including, but not limited to the following:

1. Primary cable, secondary cable, and service lateral conduit and all service boxes

and pull-boxes.

2. Padmount transformer/equipment concrete pads (including 2-foot secondary

conduit stub-outs)

3. Secondary/primary risers including the pull-box, conduit to pole, and 10-foot riser

conduit up the pole.

Connection of Service - AE will schedule the new service connection after the customer

has completed the following:

1. Obtained approval of ESPA from AE Design.

2. Obtained a COA electric permit and all required permits.

3. Completed all work per the requirements of the AE Design and AE Distribution

Metering.

4. Passed all the required inspections.

5. Applied for Service and set up an account with Austin Energy.

AE should receive notification of a passed electrical inspection from COA (and all other

governing entities) three regular working days before the service can be energized.

(Call COA Permit and License Center or the AE St. Elmo Dispatch Office for information

concerning the status of the required permits and inspections.)

Work Flow Process for Services Over 350 Amp Single-Phase or 225 Amp Three-Phase,

All Service Requiring an Austin Energy Design, and All Projects in the Network Area:

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Service Requests for Mobile Food Vending

Each Customer at a Multiple Mobile Food Vendor Location must provide Austin Energy a

completed ESPA and a current copy of their Mobile Food Vendor’s food permit issued by

the Austin Public Health. Each Mobile Food Vendor unit must have a separate address

created through

Address Management Services.

Austin Energy will provide one point of service to each location with multiple Mobile

Food Vendors, and individual meters can be established by each Customer at this

location. One service can supply all vendors on that site, allowing sub-metering on the

load side of the meter. See 1.9.0 for grouping of meters.

For Mobile Food Vendor Locations with multiple Customer facilities, such as, but not

limited to, mobile Food vendor food courts, music venues, restrooms facilities, pavilion

areas, and site lighting, the ESPA submitted by the Customer must include the total

aggregated connected electric load requested.

For Mobile Food Vendor Locations in which more than two electric services are

requested, the electrical services must be designed in accordance with NEC

requirements for a Recreational Vehicle site. In the ESPA, Customer shall include a

scaled drawing for the location to be served.

All mobile food vending must have a power supply from a permanent meter loop pole or

from a separately metered service if associated with a brick-and-mortar structure on

the site.

All Customer electrical wiring at the Mobile Food Vendor Location must be in accordance

with City of Austin Electrical Code requirements.

AE Design Criteria Sections 1.3.3, 1. 3. 8 and 1.3.13 apply to the new electric services

that are requested.

Customer Drawings Specifications

The Customer is responsible for assuring that the project data supplied to AE is current throughout all

of the project design phases. If the Customer has not provided the most up to date version of project

data to AE, the project construction schedule could be negatively impacted. AE acknowledges that the

Customer has no responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the data in the “as-built” stage of

the electrical design.

All drawings submitted by the Customer to Austin Energy must be according to the following

specifications:

Customer CAD File Requirements:

A utility design CAD file must be submitted to AE Design on all projects unless otherwise specified by

Design. AE realizes that some smaller projects may not be drawn with CAD software. This submittal is

not required if CAD data is not available. It should be recognized that the AE design process would be

more efficient with the CAD file versus AE Design having to manually digitize features to complete the

work.

A utility design CAD file is an AutoCAD-compatible (DXF or DWG file format) digital drawing file that

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December 12, 2023

contains specific point, line and text objects related to the design and analysis of existing and/or

proposed utility lines in the proposed land development. The file contains electronic features data

needed to do a CAD-based system design. The utility design CAD file includes the features from the

site plan or site/utility plans. This process enables AE Design to provide a more efficient design

process for each site development Customer.

The submitted CAD file shall be a DXF or DWG format file containing all of the applicable feature

elements listed in Table 1.4.3.3.A. All required objects must be in model space. All files must have the

UCS setting to “World”. All files must be drawn to scale. The CAD file shall be georeferenced with a

coordinate system of NAD 83 Texas Central Zone 4203. The utility design CAD file shall be complete,

not be reliant on XREF files contained in other drawing files. (All xref files should be individually

imported and attached to a base file before sending to AE). The features shall be placed on separate

layers. Refer to Table 1.4.3.3.B for required objects that AE must see on the electronic file and layer

recommendations.

Refer to Tables 1.4.3.A & 1.4.3.B below for the list of minimum information and features that AE

requires to be shown on the CAD plans.

TABLE 1.4.3.A

OBJECTS AND DATA REQUIREMENTS FOR CAD FILES

Objects & Data Features

CAD Layer Name

CAD Layer Color

Lot Lines

Background

Property Lines

Prop Line

Blue

All Easements

Easements

Red

Sidewalks

Driveways

Background

Water Lines

Water

144

Water Valves, FH, etc…

Water

144

Waste Water Lines

Waste Water Valves & etc…

Storm Sewer Lines

200

Storm Inlets, etc…

200

Storm Drain Lines

200

Gas Lines

Gas

Electric UG Lines

Elec UG

Magenta

Electric OH Lines

Elec OH

Magenta

Electric Manholes, Pull-boxes

Elec MH

Magenta

Electric OH Transformers

Elec Transf OH

Magenta

Electric UG Transformers

Elec Transf UG

Magenta

Electric Poles

Elec Pole

Magenta

Topo Contours Lines

Topo

BOC

FOC

Bldgs, existing

Bldg, Exist

Bldgs, proposed

Bldg, Prop

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Trees

Green

Dimensions

Dims

Blue

Street Names

Text

White

Lot Numbers

Text

White

Fence

Dumpsters

Background

TABLE 1.4.3.B

REQUIRED FEATURES, OBJECTS, AND DATA

TO BE REFLECTED ON THE SET OF HARDCOPY PLANS



Site plan



Utility profiles (if applicable)



Driveways



One-Line Diagram of the electrical riser



Back & Front of Curb



All floor plans



Existing Buildings



All electrical plans



Proposed Buildings



Engineer Contact Info



All Utilities



Elevations



Location Map



Landscaping



North Arrows

Summary of Basic Processes with Approximate Time Requirements

The Customer should submit an ESPA to AE Design Intake for approval as soon as

practical (normally after the DSD approves the site plan). The customer must resubmit

the ESPA to AE Design to request service after receiving an Electric Permit number (See

Sections 1.4.2.3 and 1.4.2.4). AE Design will require the site plan in a CAD file (See

Section 1.4.2.6), a load analysis, a proposed project schedule, a proposed service need

date, and a project contact person.

Service Required/Service Need Date. These terms refer to the date that the Customer

requests electric service from AE. AE’s ability to meet this date is always dependent

upon the customer paying all costs and completing all the necessary AE requirements,

permits, and inspections with enough lead-time prior to the need date to allow time for

AE scheduling and construction. When the project is ready for scheduling, a more

realistic construction start time and completion date for the service installation can be

determined.

NOTE: Scheduling places the project in the queue of work to be done and begins the

process of ordering the materials from AE stores. Once a construction crew becomes

available and the project is assigned, the actual time for construction depends on such

things as the size and complexity of the project and the weather.

AE will not schedule the job until all the Customer requirements have been completed.

Contact AE Design for approximate lead-time and construction-time information for

Customer planning purposes. Again, all cost, permits, easements, inspections, all AE

requirements, and all other requirements must be completed before the project will be

scheduled.

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Application for electric service to set up an account with AE is the responsibility of the

customer and is part of the requirements that must be completed before the project is

scheduled. The application process can normally be completed in one day. Contact the

AE Call Center.

For smaller projects and in instances where most of the AE system infrastructure is

already in place, the actual design/construction process can normally be completed in

two to six weeks after AE Design has received a completed ESPA form with an Electric

Permit number and with all of the required Customer and electrical load information.

Projects requiring additional infrastructure (such as poles), major equipment (such as a

three-phase transformer or switchgear), or other special requirements will take longer.

Contact AE Design.

The ordering and delivery time for major equipment such as steel or concrete poles,

transformers, and switchgear may take fourteen to twenty-four weeks. The time

required to provide service may depend upon what equipment AE has in stock and what

must be ordered and therefore may vary from project to project. Contact AE Design.

The Customer’s electrical contractor is normally responsible for requesting

electrical/civil inspections from the COA Development Services Department Building

Inspections division and civil work inspections from AE Work Management. The COA’s

DSD Building Inspections division is responsible for inspecting the wiring and civil work

on the Customer’s side of the meter. Electrical Inspections require at least one working

day advance notice for each inspection. Generally, a total of 10 to 12 inspections are

required by the COA DSD Building Inspections division over the course of a project.

Each inspection can usually be completed in one day. Inspection failures will require a

re-inspection.

AE Work Management civil inspections of Customer-installed civil work (conduit and

concrete pads) for AE facilities for underground installations will usually involve three

inspections. Each inspection requires one working day advance notice. The inspection

will generally take from one to two hours to complete. Transformer, switchgear, and

other equipment pads must cure for seven days prior to the transformer or equipment

being installed. (See Distributed Generation Interconnection section for additional

distributed generation inspection requirements.)

Inspections by the AE Distribution Metering Operations business unit may take up to

five business days to inspect the service when scheduled through the AE Distribution

Metering Dispatch Office.

Austin Energy must obtain an easement any time AE installs primary voltage facilities

on the Customer’s property or secondary voltage facilities that serve more than one

Customer (see Section 1.3.6).

COA Development Services Department Building Inspections

For information regarding installation and inspection requirements for the Customer’s electrical facilities

served by AE and located beyond the AE point of service, call the COA DSD Building Inspections division.

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Electric Permits for AE Electric Service within City of Austin

All AE-metered Customers must obtain an electric permit from the COA Building Permits (Service Center)

before starting an electrical installation or modification. AE must receive notification from the COA DSD

Building Inspections division that the Customer’s electrical installation has passed 304 Temporary and/or

305 Final electrical inspection before the AE service is installed, modified, or energized (see Section 1.4.3).

Electric Permits for AE Electric Service Outside of City of Austin

For AE-metered installations located outside of the COA, the Customer must still obtain an electric permit

from the COA Building Permits (Service Center) (and a COA electrical inspection) for the Customer’s

facilities up to and including the main disconnect in addition to those permits required by other regulating

bodies. AE must receive notification from the COA DSD Building Inspections division (and other regulating

bodies) that the Customer’s electrical installation has passed final electrical inspection before the AE service

is installed, modified, or energized (see Section 1.4.3).

Coordinating Outages for Installation of New Services

Where installation(s) of a new service require an outage for customers on the same service, the

requester of the new service must determine the available outage times from Austin Energy and

coordinate the outage schedule with the other customers on the same service.

TYPES OF PERMANENT ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION SERVICE

Section 1.5.0 provides specific requirements and information for electric service in the Network Area (1.5.1)

and for overhead and underground Commercial (1.5.2) and Residential (1.5.3) electric service in all other

areas. (See –1.18.0 Appendix and Exhibits for examples of various AE metering and service requirements.)

NOTES: Only copper conductors are acceptable with a maximum size of 500 kcmil. No parallel conductors are

permitted for services rated 400 amps or less.

Network Service

Underground and Vault Service Only

AE provides only underground and vault service for new customer requests in the Network Area in

accordance with the Austin Energy Network Construction Standards. Contact the Network Design

business unit concerning the requirements for electric service in the AE Network Area (See Section

1.11.15 for AE Network Area Map).

Available Network Service

Electric service is available in the AE Network Area as follows in Table 1.5.1.2, but not

all voltages or ampacities are available at all locations. Contact the AE Network Design

Section for information concerning the availability of specific voltage and power

requirements at a specific location.

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TABLE 1.5.1.2

AVAILABLE NETWORK AREA ONLY ELECTRIC SERVICE VOLTAGES AND DEMAND AMPACITIES

VOLTAGE

SERVICE SIZE (Total connected undiversified demand amps) [6]

RESIDENTIAL

COMMERCIAL

Secondary Riser

Underground

Secondary Riser

Underground

min

max

min

Max

min

max

min

max

120/208V, single-phase,

3-Wire [4]

[1]

200

[1]

200

[1]

200

[1]

200

120/208V, three-phase,

[1]

800[1]

800

[1]

800

4-Wire [4]

[5]

[1][2]

[1]

[2][3]

277/480V, three-phase,

4-Wire

N/A

[1]

[1] Contact Network Design.

[2] 800 amps of demand ampacity is not available at all locations. Contact Network Design.

[3] Contact Network Design for larger service size.

[4] Where existing facilities are currently available. Contact Network Design.

[5] AE may elect to furnish this type of service to Customers that do not meet the minimum requirement;

however, the Customer shall be required to pay AE for all additional costs and expenses incurred by AE to

provide such service.

[6] CAUTION: Customer’s service entrance size shall not exceed the sum of the Customer’s total connected

undiversified load and only copper conductors are acceptable. The service entrance size shall be

determined by the nameplate rating of the Customer’s main disconnect.

See the following sections for additional network service details:

1. 1.5.1.4 Underground 208Y/120V Network Service - Residential

2. 1.5.1.5 Underground 208Y/120V Network Service - Commercial

3. 1.5.1.6 Network Transformer Vault Service

4. 1.5.2.5 Underground Secondary Voltage Service from Secondary Riser -

Commercial

5. 1.5.3.4.B Underground Residential Service from a Secondary Riser

Existing Overhead Service - RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL

Network Area. Any existing overhead AE facilities located within the Network Area

that the Customer must have modified shall be converted to underground at the

Customer’s expense. The Customer is responsible for service modifications to be done

on or within Customer's property. AE will be responsible for extending underground

service lateral to the point of service. These modifications include any work such as

adding load, changing voltages, relocating the service spot, or upgrading an existing

service including any associated Customer-installed civil work. An existing overhead

service that only needs repair and does not result in any of the modifications noted

above may remain overhead.

Minimum Working Clearances from Energized Overhead Utility Lines. See

section 1.10.0.

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For more information and requirements regarding services in the Network Area,

contact the Network Design business unit.

Underground 208Y/120V Service – RESIDENTIAL

AE maintains a 208Y/120V, 4-wire underground electrical distribution grid in the

Network Area (see the geographic map in Section 1.11.5). Customers in this area

requiring electrical service of 800 amps or less of electric service demand might be

served from this electrical grid. (The Network Design business unit will determine actual

service capacity available). The majority of these service connections will be routed to

Customers from the nearest electrical distribution grid access points, which are located

in the alleys and streets of the service area shown in Section 1.11.5. See Table 1.5.1.2

for electric service available in this area.

Any new service that falls within the Network Area must be installed underground. The

Customer shall furnish and install conduit and necessary conductors from the junction

box, main switch, or metering enclosure to the point of service as determined by AE

Network Design. The Customer shall leave a 36-inch-minimum copper conductor tail

extending from the top of the service box or pull-box.

The Network Design business unit shall specify an exact length of copper conductor tails

for manholes and transformer vaults. AE shall make all necessary terminations between

the Customer's and AE's copper conductors.

NOTE: Customer is not permitted to access AE pull-boxes or manholes. Contact AE

Network Design to schedule assistance when installing the service conductors.

For any new underground installation by the Customer, AE Civil Inspection business unit

must complete an inspection of the Customer-installed civil work before the excavation

is backfilled. Above-grade conduit installed by Customer is only allowed as a vertical

riser from grade to the AE metering equipment and shall be rigid metal or schedule 80

PVC.

Customer shall contact the AE Distribution Metering Operations or Inspections to

request the Spot location of metering equipment and other metering and meter location

information.

Neutral copper conductors of 3-phase, 4-wire wye-connected services shall have the

full- current-carrying capacity of the largest energized conductor from the Customer's

point of service to the Customer's service disconnect(s) at the service equipment. The

neutral copper conductor must be properly marked and grounded.

For more information and requirements regarding services in the Network Area, contact the Network

Design business unit.

Underground 208Y/120V Service – COMMERCIAL

AE maintains a 208Y/120V, 4-wire underground electrical distribution grid in the

Network Area (see the geographic map in Section 1.11.5). Customers in this area

requiring electrical service 800 amps or less of electric service demand might be

attached to this electrical grid if capacity is available as determined by the Network

Design business unit. The majority of these service connections will be routed to

Customers from the nearest electrical distribution grid access points which are located

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in the alleys and streets of the service area shown in Section 1.11.5. See Table 1.5.1.2

for electric service available in this area.

Customers requiring electrical service above 800 amps (208Y/120V, 4-wire) must

provide a network transformer vault on the Customer’s property, at the Customer’s

expense, as specified by the Network Design business unit.

Any new service that falls within the Network Area must be installed underground. The

Customer shall furnish and install all civil work, according to Network Design

specifications, from Customer point of service to AE's pull-box, manhole or electrical

vault. When the conduit is required to be installed into an existing pull-box, manhole or

electrical vault, the conduit shall be stubbed within 12 inches of AE's facility. AE shall be

responsible for installing all conduits into the AE pull-box, manhole or electrical vault.

The Customer shall furnish, install, own, and maintain the necessary copper conductors

from the service location to AE’s pull-box, service box, manhole or vault. The Network

Design business unit shall specify this location.

The Customer shall furnish enough copper conductor length to extend out of the top of

the service box or pull-box to a minimum of 36 inches above the lid. The Network

Design business unit shall specify an exact length of copper conductor tails for

manholes and transformer vaults. AE shall make all necessary terminations between

the Customer's and AE's conductors.

For any new underground installation by the Customer, AE Civil Inspection business unit

must complete an inspection of the Customer-installed civil work before the excavation

is backfilled. Above-grade conduit installed by Customer is only allowed as a vertical

riser from grade to the AE metering equipment and shall be rigid metal or schedule 80

PVC.

Customer shall contact the Austin Energy Metering business unit to request the spot

location of metering equipment and other metering and meter location information.

Neutral conductors for three-phase, 4-wire wye-connected services shall have the full-

current-carrying capacity of the largest energized conductor from the Customer's point

of service to the Customer's service disconnect(s) at the service equipment. The neutral

conductor must be properly marked and bonded.

For more information and requirements regarding services in the Network Area, contact

the Network Design business unit.

Service conductors must be consistent in size, type (copper or aluminum)

throughout the metering equipment. If the meter is not located at the point of

service where the customer conductors are connected to AE facilities (i.e., AE

Transformer) there must be no splices, connections, or customer-accessible

enclosures between the point of service and the meter. The outlet, device,

cutout, pull or junction boxes, cabinets, wireways, gutters, conduit bodies

(such as, condulets–LB, LL, LR) or any other apparatus that is designed and

intended to allow access to conductors shall not be allowed ahead of metering

equipment.

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Network Transformer Vault Service

Network transformer vault service is necessitated by the Customer’s requested electrical load and/or

requested service voltage. A network transformer vault shall be located on the Customer's property

and shall conform to the following conditions:

Where the Customer's total electrical demand load per AE’s determination exceeds

(800 amps) for a 208Y/120V three-phase service and for any size 480Y/277V three-

phase service, the Customer shall provide a transformer vault according to AE

specifications and requirements. The vault structure shall conform to Section 1.11.0 of

this Design Criteria (plus any additional requirements by AE Network Design). The

transformer vault shall be located on the Customer’s property and at or closest to the

property line adjacent to AE's underground primary facilities either at grade level or

sub-grade provided the Customer can meet all required conditions in Section 1.11.0 of

this Design Criterion. All Network transformer vaults shall be located a minimum of 2

feet above the 100- year floodplain.

The Customer shall contact the Network Design business unit before any vault design

work is started. See Section 1.11.0 for additional design information and requirements.

The Customer shall furnish and install conduit from the vault to a location designated by

AE Network Design business unit.

AE shall own and maintain the conduit from its facilities to the Customer's property line.

AE shall furnish, install, own, and maintain the primary cables from its facilities into the

vault. AE shall furnish, install, own, and maintain the necessary transformers and

equipment in the vault and do all work inside the vault.

The Customer shall extend bus duct — as specified by the Network Design business unit

– into the vault. Bus duct, typically no more than two, must enter the vault with

spacing on 12- inch centers between the phases. The spacing between the bus ducts

will be determined by the Network Design business unit. All bus duct entries, including

any future bus duct entries, must be included during the original installation. No

additional service entries will be allowed after original installation.

AE shall maintain all AE electrical facilities from AE's manhole to the connection at the

Customer's service conductors. This does not include the building/vault structure,

doors, louvers, vents, and conduit system that is on the Customer's property.

AE shall keep the vault locked at all times but shall provide the Customer access to the

vault upon request. (Please contact the Network Design business unit to schedule time

for access and to determine any charges to the Customer.) AE must have outside

personnel entry to the vault that is immediate and unabated at all times.

The transformer vault shall contain only the AE power transformers and AE auxiliary

equipment. The vault shall not contain meters or any Customer switches, protective

equipment, fiber or any fiber optics, telephone, or security system hardware not

specifically required by AE. The Customer shall not have a sprinkler system or other fire

extinguishing system installed in the vault. AE recommends that the Customer locate

his electrical service equipment immediately adjacent to the vault.

Customer shall contact the AE Distribution Metering business unit to request the spot

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location of metering equipment and other metering and meter location information.

Inspections of Customer-Installed Civil Work in the Network Area

Customer shall contact the AE Civil Inspection business unit and the Network Design

business unit for the preconstruction meeting for the final inspection of all Customer-

installed civil work for projects in the Network Area. (AE Network Design will inspect

Customer-installed network vaults).

For more information and requirements regarding services in the Network Area,

contact the Network Design business unit.

COMMERCIAL Service in Non-Network Areas

(See Sections 1.3.0 and 1.4.0.)

General Conditions and Requirements - Commercial

Prior to Electrical Installation. Before starting work on any new or upgraded electric

service, the Customer shall ensure the land is a legal lot or tract as required under the

Land Development Code.

Contact AE Design or AE Spots & Conduit. (See Section 1.4.1) In order to facilitate

electric service availability when needed, the Customer should discuss all electrical

service issues with AE Design well in advance of the desired service date to determine

the requirements and time frame for providing electric service. Necessary information

that should be included in the ESPA includes exact location of the property to be

served, such as street address, lot and block number of subdivisions, service voltage,

equipment characteristics, connected load, and the size of the service entrance

equipment including equipment ratings and the size and number of service entrance

conductors.

Service Availability. Not all standard AE service voltages are available at all locations.

If the available service does not meet the Customer's requirements as requested in the

ESPA, AE may agree to supply the type of electric service Customer requires at an

additional cost to the Customer if the request meets the following conditions:

1. The request is feasible as determined by AE Design.

2. The Customer’s equipment and/or the manner of use does not jeopardize the

quality of service to other AE Customers or the reliability of the AE system as

determined by AE Design.

Costs to the Customer. The Customer may be required to pay AE a line extension

charge and/or an excess facilities/excess costs charge (see Section 1.3.0). AE Design

will determine if either or both of these charges are applicable.

Service Location/Property Address. Before the installation of the temporary meter

loop or approval of ESPA, the property address must be located at the service location

site so that it is visible from public right of way and have this address clearly marked

on the meter loop, meter pole, and/or meter pole braces (See Section 1.7.0). The

property address must remain visible continuously during the design and construction

phase and after completion of the project. Note: The property address includes ½

identifier address for all commercial temporary and (or) construction power loops

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(unless transformer will be used for permanent service.

Agreement for Underground Electric Service (Letter of Agreement). The

conditions (and costs) under which underground electric service is supplied to a

Customer shall be covered by an "Agreement for Electric Service" letter provided by AE

Design.

IMPORTANT: The Agreement for Electric Service by AE to serve a particular

installation underground applies only to the specified wiring and equipment at the

Customer-specified location as given in the ESPA. The Customer shall notify AE Design

as soon as possible whenever any change in an installation is contemplated so that

proper provisions may be made for adequate service connections and metering

facilities.

Commercial Service Ownership. AE normally installs, owns, and maintains the

overhead service drop from AE facilities to the Customer’s facilities. The Customer

normally installs, owns, and maintains the underground service lateral from the point of

service, which is usually a pull-box/service-box or an AE pad-mounted transformer (as

designated by AE Design) to the Customer’s building or facility. Two or more meters

must be grouped together and have the pull box as the point of service (POS).

Main Disconnect Switches. The Customer's main disconnect switch(es) shall be in

accordance with Austin City Code, Chapter 25-12.

Permanent Overhead Service. The Customer’s overhead service drop that is not

installed to a permanent building or structure shall be installed on a rack that is

constructed of non-corrosive metal and supported by galvanized rigid steel 4-inch

minimum diameter or a 6” x 6” pressure treated pole/post. The poles/posts shall be

installed a minimum of 3 feet deep encased in concrete. Rack shall be installed

permanently with sufficient bracing and shall be stationary.

For Customer services requiring meter bases rated over 350 amps, the pole or rack

must be engineered, and a drawing provided to AE Design confirming that the

structure will support the AE overhead service tension. AE Design will provide the

pole/structure loading requirements for the overhead service.

The Customer-Installed Civil Work. (conduit and so forth) required for the

Customer- owned permanent underground service lateral that is located on the source

side of the AE meter shall also meet the requirements of AE Design and this Design

Criteria.

AE Responsibility for Customer-Installed, Owned, and Maintained Facilities. AE

ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY PORTION OF THE CUSTOMER'S

INSTALLATION. AE reserves the right to discontinue or refuse service to any apparatus

or device under the following circumstances:

1. Apparatus or device is not properly constructed, controlled, or protected.

2. The Customer has not provided the necessary easements or obtained the required

inspections and permits.

3. It is determined at AE’s discretion that the apparatus or device has the potential to

adversely affect AE facilities or other AE Customers or is determined to be unsafe.

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Placement of Customer's Facilities. The Customer's service shall not be installed on

facilities owned by AE (such as AE’s pole or padmount transformer). The Customer

should be aware of AE overhead and underground electric facilities and their

easements. The Customer’s facilities, including, but not limited to buildings, signs,

swimming pools, spas, decks, carports, garages, equipment or any other structure

shall not be installed over or under these electric facilities or in an easement unless

written approval is obtained from AE. For information, contact AE Design.

Commercial Meter Loop Location or Replacement. Meter loops shall not be

installed on manufactured, portable buildings, or similar structures that are not legally

a permanent part of the property (except as approved by AE Design). An electric permit

will be required, and meter loop must be upgraded according to current codes whenever

there is a need to replace a meter loop pole (such as replacing a rotten pole). Meters

may be mounted on Modular structures if the customer provides Austin Energy with the

necessary paperwork indicating the structure is built and inspected by Texas

Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) and paperwork is on file and attached

to the electric or building permit.

AE Design (or AE Spots & Conduit for ‘service only’ residential and small commercial)

shall designate all AE non-CT point of attachment locations with the concurrence of AE

Distribution Metering Operations. The meter location(s) should be on the first floor or

ground level. AE Design must approve meter location exceptions in writing for

underground Customer- installed and -owned service installations NOT metered at the

transformer, the meter(s) shall not be located more than 150 feet from the point of

service. The service lateral shall not be installed under any building or other structure.

Fire Pumps. Electric service to fire pumps shall be served through a CT-metered

service.

Service conductors must be consistent in size, type (copper or aluminum) throughout

the metering equipment. If the meter is not located at the point of service where the

customer conductors are connected to AE facilities (i.e., AE Transformer) there must be

no splices, connections, or customer-accessible enclosures between the point of service

and the meter. The outlet, device, cutout, pull or junction boxes, cabinets, wireways,

gutters, conduit bodies (such as, condulets–LB, LL, LR) or any other apparatus that is

designed and intended to allow access to conductors shall not be allowed ahead of

metering equipment.

Grounding and Bonding of Customer-installed Electric Services. Electric

services, including, but not limited to, service equipment, raceways, service

distribution enclosures, junction boxes, wire-ways, enclosures, and any service

conductor to be grounded/bonded, shall be grounded/bonded in accordance with the

latest edition of the NEC.

EXCEPTION: The grounding/bonding conductors for all services shall be copper only,

with a minimum size of #6 AWG copper.

Primary Dual Feed Services. Customers requesting primary dual feeds shall contact

Austin Energy Key Accounts. The Customer will be provided the allowable options and

requirements available from Austin Energy for dual feed types of services.

Available Commercial Electric Service

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Commercial electric service available in the AE service area is as follows in Table 1.5.2.2 but not all

voltages or ampacities are available at all locations.

TABLE 1.5.2.2 [See Note 9]

VOLTAGE

[7]

Maximum Available Demand Load (amps)

Overhead

Secondary Riser

Underground

min

max

min

max

min

max

120/240V, 1PH,

3-Wire

800

[3]

800

[3]

800

[3]

120/240V, 3PH,

4-Wire [3]

100

[2]

800

[3]

100

[2]

800

[3]

[1]

[2]

120/208V, 3PH,

4-Wire

300

[2]

1600

[3]

300

[2]

1200

[3]

300

[2]

2200

[3]

277/480V, 3PH,

4-Wire

300

[2]

600

[3]

300

[2]

600

[3]

300

[2]

3000

[3]

7200/12470V,

3PH, 4-Wire [6]

100

[3]

100

[3]

[1] Typically available only from the overhead distribution system. Contact AE Design.

[2] AE may elect to furnish larger service than is required (by AE’s calculation) to the Customer at a single point of

service at the Customer’s request. However, the Customer shall be required to split their secondary voltage bus

or pay AE for all additional costs and expenses incurred by AE to provide such service. Contact AE Design.

[3] 750 kcmil is the maximum wire size allowed.

[4] For the purpose of sizing AE facilities, AE Design shall determine the maximum expected Customer demand load

that will be seen by AE facilities from the Customer’s total connected undiversified load information and business

type as documented on the ESPA form. AE facilities will be sized by AE Design accordingly. The maximum

demand load amp service available from AE is defined in Table 1.5.2.2.

[5] Prior to installing equipment and phase marking, the Customer shall contact AE design for information regarding

proper AE phase rotation at the location to be provided service. Customer, and not AE, shall be responsible for

any improper service installation due to incorrect phasing rotation.

Overhead Secondary Voltage Service - Commercial

Service-Drop Conductors

1. General. For service-drop conductors, furnished and installed by AE that connect

AE's supply lines to the service conductors provided by the Customer, the point of

service is the point at which AE's and the Customer's conductors are connected at

the weatherhead(s) and one-point rack(s) location. AE shall make all connections

of AE conductors at the point of service.

2. Service conductors must be consistent in size, type (copper or aluminum)

throughout the metering equipment. If the meter is not located at the point of

service where the customer conductors are connected to AE facilities (i.e., AE

Transformer) there must be no splices, connections, or customer-accessible

enclosures between the point of service and the meter. The outlet, device, cutout,

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pull or junction boxes, cabinets, wireways, gutters, conduit bodies (such as,

condulets–LB, LL, LR) or any other apparatus that is designed and intended to

allow access to conductors shall not be allowed ahead of metering equipment.

3. Clearances/Attachment Heights. NESC (Section 23) along with AE

Design/Construction require minimum clearances for service-drop conductors

from final grade or other accessible surfaces, which shall be maintained at all

times. To facilitate these clearances, minimum and maximum attachment heights

shall be as listed in Table 1.5.2.3.A.

TABLE 1.5.2.3.A

CLEARANCES AND ATTACHMENT HEIGHTS FOR SERVICE-DROP CONDUCTORS

COMMERCIAL SERVICES

Minimum

Clearance

From Final Grade

Other Accessible

Surface (Feet)

Attachment Height

Minimum

(Feet)

Maximum

(Feet)

Services passing over driveways, or

parking lots and alleys (not subject to

truck traffic). Commercial services over

areas accessible to pedestrians only.

Services passing over roads, streets,

alleys, parking lots, subject to truck

traffic or other land traversed by vehicles

such as cultivated forest, and orchard.

A minimum clearance above the roof of 18 inches to mast shall be permitted for

service mast installations, including, but not limited to service-mast (through-the-roof)

installations where the voltage between conductors does not exceed 300V and the roof

is sloped no more than 4 inches in 12 inches. Services exceeding 300V require a

minimum clearance of 8 feet.

Where the voltage between conductors does not exceed 300V and the mast is located

within 4 feet of the edge of the roof and above only the overhanging portion of the roof, a

minimum clearance of 18 inches shall be permitted for service-mast (through-the-roof)

installation. No more than 10 feet of service-drop conductors may pass above the roof

overhang. Services exceeding 300V require a minimum clearance of 8 feet.

4. The Customer is responsible for tree trimming activities prior to the installation of

AE facilities to allow the safe installation of electrical facilities by AE as determined

by AE Design.

5. All clearances shall comply with rules/exceptions as stated in the NESC in addition

to the following:

a. Where physical features, such as terrain or vegetation are unusual, additional

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attachment height may be required to allow for conductor sag.

b. Service Mast (Supporting/Through Roof): Service mast must be a minimum 2-

inch Intermediate Metal Conduit. Service mast through the roof and over 4

feet from strapping or supports must be guyed within 3 inches of the point of

attachment. The one-point rack may be attached to service mast, provided

the service mast is supporting and through the roof. When one-point rack(s)

is attached to service mast, no fittings, such as couplings, may be located

between the roof and point of attachment.

c. Service Mast (Non-supporting/Not-Through-Roof): Service mast must be Rigid

Metal, Intermediate Metal, or EMT conduit. The one-point rack may not be

attached to a non-supporting/not-through-roof service mast.

d. A maximum length of 6 feet of service-drop conductors may pass over the

roof of the building or structure being served, regardless of the height above

and/or the slope of the roof.

EXCEPTION: A maximum of 10 feet of service-drop conductors may pass

over the roof of the building or structure to which the service-drop is not

attached, regardless of required height above the roof and/or slope of the roof

when the service drop meets all the following conditions:

• The building or structure is on the same piece of property and owned

by the same Customer as the building being served to which the

service-drop is attached (such as a garage or storage building)

• The voltage between the service-drop conductors does not exceed

300 volts

e. Service-drop conductors shall not pass within 7.5 feet, measured horizontally,

or over or under any portion of a building or structure to provide service to

another building or structure except as allowed in this Design Criteria.

Additional clearances may be required as indicated in Section 23 of the NESC.

f. Service-drop conductors shall not pass within 7.5 feet, measured horizontally,

or over or under signs, chimneys, billboards, radio and television antennas,

tanks, streetlights, and other installations not classified as buildings.

Additional clearances may be required as indicated in Section 23 of the

NESC.

g. For more information, contact AE Design.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: For safety reasons, the customer should contact AE

to have the electric power de-energized before working near AE facilities.

6. Anchorage of Overhead Service-Drop Conductors

a. The Customer shall provide (1) an adequate anchorage for the service-drop

conductors, using a one-point rack(s) and (2) a suitable location for AE's

metering equipment. Customer shall install and maintain the one-point

rack(s).

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b. For services rated 800 amps or less, a single one-point rack shall be used for

3-wire and 4-wire. The rack shall be installed within 12 inches below the

weatherhead at the required attachment height.

For services rated over 800 amps, three one-point racks shall be installed for

3-wire services and four one-point racks for 4-wire services. The racks shall

be installed 10 to 12 inches apart, measured center to center.

Factory-assembled racks are allowed, as approved by AE Design. The

Customer shall furnish, install, own, and maintain these racks.

Multiple racks installed horizontally shall be installed a maximum of 12 inches

below the weatherhead(s) at the required attachment height. The center point

of the racks shall be directly below the weatherhead(s).

Multiple racks installed vertically shall be installed with the highest rack within

12 inches below the weatherhead and the lowest rack at the required

attachment height.

c. The service-drop conductors shall be attached to a permanent building or

structure at the point of attachment designated by AE - usually a location

closest to AE’s nearest facilities/pole. The Spot & Conduit business unit or AE

Design shall determine the point of attachment on the Customer’s building or

structure.

d. In order to provide adequate support for the service, the Customer shall use a

minimum ½-inch diameter threaded bolt with nut and washers to securely

attach the one-point rack(s) dead-end attachment securely to the structural

frame of the building. On a wood frame structure, the Customer shall provide

a securely attached minimum 2-inch x 4-inch header for this purpose.

Meter sockets and service entrance to the point of service are not considered

complete until the one-point rack(s) has been properly installed.

e. Wherever the building height does not permit the required clearances for the

service-drop conductors, the Customer shall provide approved permanent

metal service supports (see 1.5.2.1.I).

f. Existing overhead service supply conductors where raised solar panels are

installed must maintain minimum clearance of 6' above solar panels.

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Service Drop Lengths. For either permanent or temporary services, the Customer's

service entrance facilities (such as service equipment, service conductors, or one-point

rack) shall be installed relative to the service drop length according to the following (see

section 1.10.6):

10-foot

minimum

Regardless of service size: service drop length measured horizontally and

perpendicular to AE's facilities (poles and overhead lines) (Also see Section

1.10.6.1.)

75-foot

maximum

For service entrance equipment rated 225 amps or less: service drop length

measured horizontally/radially, from AE's facilities (pole serving Customer's

facilities)

55-foot

maximum

For service entrance equipment rated over 225 amps but 350 amps or less:

service drop length measured horizontally/radially from AE’s facilities (pole

serving Customer’s facilities)

Contact AE

Design

For service entrance equipment rated more than 350 amps

All other maximum service lengths shall be specified by AE Design. Point of attachment

must be able to withstand 400 pounds of tension.

Service Head (Weatherhead)

1. Customer’s Service Conductors. To permit connection with AE's service-drop

conductors, the Customer’s service conductors must extend as follows according to

the wire size:

#6 AWG through #1/0 AWG 18-inch minimum plus the distance from the

service head to the rack

#2/0 AWG and larger 36-inch minimum plus the distance from the

service head to the rack

If these conductor lengths are not provided, the CUSTOMER must rewire to meet

the requirement.

2. The service head shall be approved weatherproof construction and installed to

prevent the entrance of rain. The service head shall terminate within 12 inches

above the one- point rack on the building, where the structure will permit.

3. For multiple service head, Customer service conductors shall reach the rack(s) on

the building (plus 36 inches). Each service weatherhead shall have a full-current

neutral. AE SHALL CONNECT THE CUSTOMER’S CONDUCTORS WITH AE’S

SERVICE-DROP CONDUCTORS. No more than six service conductors per phase

will be connected at the point of service.

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Customer-installed Underground Services and Civil Work

Primary and Secondary Conduit, Pull-Boxes/Manholes, and Equipment Pads

for AE Infrastructure

1. Underground primary and secondary infrastructure (conduit, pull-boxes/manholes,

and equipment pads) installed on the source side (ahead) of the point of service

for AE electrical facilities shall be installed with respect to final grade in utility

easements or easements granted to AE. They shall not be installed under or

permitted to pass under or through buildings or structures, including, but not

limited to, such things as porches, stairways, decks, garages, or storage

buildings.

2. All primary and secondary underground infrastructure in which AE installs AE

conductors, shall be rigid metal or schedule 80 PVC where conduit is installed in

backfill, and minimum schedule 40 PVC when encased in concrete. The conduit

shall be limited to a maximum of two 90-degree bends (180-degrees total)

between accessible pulling points (for example, transformer and pull-box). No

heated bends are permitted.

Primary conduit shall be installed a minimum of 30 inches deep and the secondary

conduit shall be installed a minimum of 24 inches deep, measured to the top of

the conduit from the final grade.

NOTE: All conduit installed crossing COA streets or installed in the COA public right

of way shall be a minimum of 36 inches deep measured to the top of the concrete

encasement/cap or the conduit if other backfill.

Only communication cables are allowed in the same trench with AE facility conduits

and shall be installed a minimum of 6 inches above and to the side of the top

electrical conduit. Communication conduits are not allowed over AE main line duct

banks (see main line definition in glossary.) (Primary and secondary risers shall be

approved rigid metal.) For more information, contact AE Design.

3. When the civil work for AE facilities (or any service conduit ahead of the AE meter)

has been installed, inspected, and approved by AE, the final grade shall not be

changed by any excavation, filling, landscaping, or sodding without the prior

written approval of AE (see Section 1.10.10).

4. AE Design will specify requirements for pull-boxes, manholes, equipment pads,

and such.

5. All conduits shall slope away from electrical equipment.

6. Contact the AE Work Management business unit or AE Civil Inspection business unit

for an on-site preconstruction review with AE inspector(s) of the proposed

Customer-installed civil work installation.

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Customer Installed, Owned, and Maintained Underground Service and Service

Laterals

1. COA DSD Building Inspections division must inspect the Customer-installed and

owned service lateral conductors and the Customer-owned electrical service

equipment. AE must inspect the service lateral conduit on the source side of the

AE meter (see Section 1.5.2.4.B.2-7). Customer must install all infrastructure on

the load side of the point of service in accordance with the National Electrical Code

(NEC) as adopted in City Code and any other applicable City Code requirements.

2. The Customer-installed service lateral conduit installed on the source side of the

AE meter shall be run from the AE energy supply point to the closest point on the

Customer’s building or structure or equidistant (as designated by AE Design or AE

Spots & Conduit) to a rack or pedestal (pre-approved by AE Design) suitable for

mounting the riser conduit and AE meter base.

3. All exposed conduit at the building/structure must be strapped to the structure and

flush with the wall. Conduit must be capped at the riser pipe, especially if it is cut

off at the slab, to prevent debris from falling into the conduit. All risers must be cut

level with the slab if the masonry or siding is not completed when the conduit

inspection is requested. (Conduit inspections will be based upon the load specified

on the Electric Permit.)

4. Multiple service conductors that are furnished, installed, owned, and maintained by

the Customer and that are serviced by AE from one point of service location shall

be grouped.

5. Multiple meters shall be grouped and located on the exterior finished surface of the

building or structure at a location approved by AE Design.

6. Service lateral conductors installed by the Customer ahead of the meter shall be

installed as follows:

a. No breaks in service wire or conduit are allowed between point of service and

the first above-grade enclosure.

b. The last 90-degree bend ahead of the first above-grade enclosure (such as

service distribution enclosure, junction box, wireway, self-contained meter,

transocket, or CT enclosure) shall be one of the following:

• Rigid Nonmetallic Schedule 80 or Schedule 80 PVC (Electrical PVC- Gray

Color) No heated bends are permitted.

• Ridge Metal (Rigid Galvanized Steel).

The 90-degree bend(s) should be pointed toward the AE service box, pull-box, or

transformer designated by AE Design or AE Spots & Conduit.

7. Conductors, other than service conductors, shall not be installed in the same

service raceway with service-entrance cables. (Also, metered and unmetered

conductors shall not be installed in a common wireway or gutter.)

EXCEPTION: Grounding and bonding conductors may be installed in the same

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raceway.

8. The neutral conductor must be properly marked and bonded.

9. High-leg Phase Conductors. Particular attention shall be given to marking high-leg

phase conductors feeding from a 3-phase, 4-wire, 120/240V delta secondary

source. The high-leg shall be effectively identified in accordance with NEC 230-56

(marked by orange tape).

The high-leg shall always be connected as follows:

In meter sockets,

including pre-wired transockets

To the right-hand terminals

In CT enclosures To either the right-hand CT (left to right),

or the bottom CT (top to bottom)

In service equipment To the center bus

10. Single-phase installations shall be 3-wire; three-phase installations shall be 4-wire.

Conductor sizes shall conform to the NEC and approved by the COA DSD Building

Inspections division. Minimum size service conductors for connection to AE facilities

shall be #6 AWG copper or equivalent for commercial permanent services.

Maximum size service conductors for connection to AE facilities shall be 750 kcmil.

11. Service conductors must be consistent in size, type (copper or aluminum), and

such through the metering equipment. If the meter is not located at the point of

service, where the Customer conductors are connected to AE facilities (i.e., AE

Transformer), there must be no splices, connections, or Customer-accessible

enclosure between the point of service and the meter. Outlet, device, cutout, pull

or junction boxes, cabinets, wireways, gutters, conduit bodies (such as,

condulets–LB, LL, LR) or any other apparatus that is designed and intended to

allow access to conductors shall not be allowed ahead of metering equipment. [

EXCEPTION: Service distribution enclosures. Junction boxes and wireways as

permitted for multiple-meter and multiple-disconnect installations in Service

Distribution Enclosures (Tap or “J” Box) and Wireway Specifications in Section

1.14.0.

EXCEPTION: (From Section 1.3.9) For 277/480V three-phase self-contained

meter sockets and for 480V three-phase or for any low voltage secondary voltage

service above 300V up to 600V phase to phase or leg to leg, a service load-break

disconnect switch shall be installed in close proximity to and on the line side

(ahead) of the metering equipment. [Line-Disconnect-Meter-Load]

12. All above-grade service conduit shall be exposed and continuous on the exterior-

finished surface of the building or structure.

EXCEPTION: The portion of the service mast through the eaves (overhang

portion) of the roof is not required to be exposed.

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December 12, 2023

13. When the Customer desires AE to install the meter on the building or structure

(rather than taking service at the transformer or service-box/pull-box), AE requires

that the Customer-installed, -owned, and -maintained service conduit and service

lateral conductors installed ahead of the AE meter(s) not be installed under or

through a building or structure, including, but not limited to, porches, stairways,

decks, carports, garages.

Should future ordinances or legislation require the AE meter to be the point of

service and where the above conditions are not met, the Customer assumes the

total responsibility for establishing a master-meter/submeter system or for

relocating the service conduit and service lateral conductors so that they are AE-

accessible.

Underground Secondary Voltage Service from Secondary Riser - Commercial

General. In areas where only overhead distribution facilities exist and a customer

requests underground service, a secondary riser is a method to provide an underground

service to the site. Secondary service voltages are available by means of a secondary

riser where the appropriate overhead distribution facilities are available. All

underground services from secondary risers must meet electrical demand load

conditions outlined in Table 1.5.2.2.

Customer and AE Commercial Service Installation Responsibilities

1. Customer Responsibilities (on the Customer’s property)

a. If the Customer-installed service lateral conductors are smaller than 500

kcmil or up to two 4/0 AWG per phase, the Customer shall furnish and install,

a 36-inch pull box (load-bearing or non-load-bearing as specified by AE

Design) at the base of the pole. (In some cases, an 18-inch service box may

be allowed for 200 amp and smaller service entrances where there is no need

to allow for load growth and where the Customer-installed service lateral

conductors are no larger than one 1/0 AWG per phase) or

If the maximum Customer-installed service lateral conductors is 500 MCM or

more than two 4/0 AWG per phase, the Customer shall furnish and install a

48-inch pull-box (load bearing or nonbearing) at the base of the pole as

specified by AE Design.

b. The Customer shall furnish and install stub-up from service box/pull-box to

pole and first 10-foot section of rigid, galvanized steel riser conduit up the

pole. The riser's 90-degree bend with minimum 24-inch radius installed by

Customer shall be a rigid metal conduit and encased in concrete. The number

and size of riser conduits will be determined by AE Design.

c. The Customer shall dig and backfill trench from meter/service location to

service box/pull-box. The trench shall be a minimum of 24 inches deep from

grade to the top of service conduit.

d. The Customer shall furnish and install, the service lateral conduit, approved

intermediate metal conduit, or schedule 80 PVC, from the last 90-degree

bend with 24-inch minimum bend radius ahead of the meter/service location

to service box/pull-box (maximum length of 150 feet). No heated bends are

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permitted.

The last 90-degree bend with 24-inch minimum bend radius ahead of the

meter and the service riser conduit to the meter shall be approved

intermediate metal conduit or schedule 80 PVC.

All service conduits shall be 2-, 3-, 4-, or 5-inch with no half sizes permitted.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Contact the AE Work Management business unit

for an on-site preconstruction review with AE inspector of the proposed civil

installation.

e. The Customer shall furnish and install the service conductors from

meter/service location into service box/pull-box. The point of service shall be

the service box/pull- box or as designated by AE Design. The Customer shall

leave a 48-inch minimum conductor tail extending from (out of) the top of the

service box or pull-box.

If a bonding conductor is required by the NEC, the Customer shall install the

bonding conductor, and AE shall make the necessary connections. THE

CUSTOMER SHALL NOT BREAK INTO SERVICE BOX/PULL-BOX WITHOUT AE

WRITTEN APPROVAL AFTER AE CONDUCTORS HAVE BEEN INSTALLED except

as approved by AE Design or AE Spots and Conduit.

CAUTION: The Customer is not allowed under any circumstances to break

into any AE pull-box containing AE primary voltage conductors.

f. The Customer shall request the following inspections:

 AE Work Management - inspects the service lateral conduit ahead of

the AE meter, the box/pull-box, the underground secondary conduit to

the pole, the 90-degree bend at the pole, and 10-foot riser conduit

extension of intermediate metal conduit up the pole. AE installs

conductors from the pull-box up the pole and makes the connections in

the pull-box.

Contact the AE Work Management business unit (or AE Civil Inspection

business unit for Major Project or Network Installations) for an on-site

preconstruction review with AE inspector(s) of the proposed Customer-

installed civil work installation.

 COA DSD Building Inspection division - inspects the Customer-

installed service lateral conductors from the service box/pull-box to the

meter/ service equipment location.

IMPORTANT: Do not backfill trench or encase 90-degree bend(s) or

service conduit until the above inspections by AE have been completed

and approved.

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2. AE Responsibilities

a. Install upper portion of secondary riser conduit on pole to complete riser.

b. Install conductors in riser conduit from the pole-mounted transformer(s) into

service box/pull-box.

c. Connect AE conductors with Customer service conductors in service box/pull-

box.

Pad-Mounted Transformer Secondary Voltage Service – Commercial

General. Where underground secondary voltage service is provided by means of

underground primary voltage cable, pad-mounted transformers, and associated

equipment, the Customer will need to provide space on his property and the necessary

easements for the required AE underground cable, underground facilities, and pad-

mounted equipment. The Customer is required to install the civil work for AE facilities

installed on the Customer’s property. The Customer must also grant the City an

easement on the City's standard form. The pad-mounted transformers and associated

equipment must be installed on concrete pads or in transformer vaults (Network area

only). All Customer-installed civil work for AE facilities must comply with all provisions

of the COA Design Criteria, NESC, NEC, AE Design, and any applicable Specifications,

Rules, Regulations, and Conditions. For more information, contact AE Design.

Metering Equipment. The metering equipment shall be grouped and located on the

exterior finished surface of all buildings. If multiple meters are served from the pad-

mount transformer, a service distribution enclosure must be installed on the exterior

finished surface of the building or a structure adjacent to the building. The Customer-

installed service lateral shall terminate in the service distribution enclosure. (See

Section 1.9.0 and 1.18.0 Appendix and Exhibits) For more information, contact AE

Design.

Metering at Three-Phase Pad-Mounted Transformers Only. When a dedicated

three- phase pad-mount transformer serves one Customer and the CT-metering

equipment is located in the secondary compartment of the transformer, the

transformer secondary compartment shall be considered the point of service.

1. No other service and no other meter is intended to be served from this pad-mount

transformer.

2. When CT-metering equipment is installed in the secondary compartment of the

transformer, the S-1 socket enclosure shall be installed on a rack on a separate

pad or an extension of the transformer pad. For alternate meter locations,

contact AE Distribution Metering business unit. (See 1.18.0 Appendix, Figure 11)

3. The conduit from the secondary compartment to the S-1 socket shall be minimum

size 1¼ inches and no larger than 1 ½ inches, either rigid metal conduit or

Schedule 80 PVC conduit, with a #6 copper ground installed with at least 4 feet of

wire pulled in the secondary compartment for grounding and bonded to the S-1

socket’s grounding terminal, and with a pull-string installed.

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Underground Installation Responsibilities. AE will provide a pad-mounted

transformer service in accordance with the following outlined conditions. Refer to Table

1.5.2.2.

1. Customer’s Responsibility

a. The Customer shall furnish and install the following in accordance with AE

plans and specifications as provided by AE Design (based on Customer-

furnished AutoCAD site and facility drawings as required by AE Design):

 Concrete pad for transformer(s)

 Primary conduit system

 Secondary conduit system: The number and size of conduits from the

secondary compartment of padmount transformer shall be determined by

AE Design. Typically, AE single-phase pad-mount transformers can take

a maximum of four conductors per leg/neutral. Three-phase pad-mount

transformers can take a maximum of ten conductors per phase/neutral.

Only one circuit of Customer secondary service conductors can be

installed per conduit.

 Service boxes (18 inches) and pull-boxes (36 inches and 48 inches)

 Primary riser: pull-box and stub-up from pull-box to pole and first 10-

foot section of riser conduit (rigid galvanized steel) up the pole. Riser’s

90 bend shall be rigid metal. Underground conduit shall be encased in

concrete. Number and size of riser conduits shall be determined by AE

Design.

 Service from the point of service up to and including the service entrance

equipment.

b. The Customer shall extend secondary service conductors to the transformer

secondary compartment with sufficient tails to reach the secondary terminals

(plus 24 inches).

c. The CUSTOMER shall contact AE Design to determine the maximum number

of conductors per phase that may be stubbed into the secondary

compartment of a transformer and to facilitate the pulling of the Customer’s

conductors into the secondary compartment.

d. The Customer shall provide an easement on the City’s standard form for the

transformer pad, other pad-mount equipment, AE primary, and secondary

conductors, and associated AE facilities.

e. The Customer shall request the following inspections: (see 1.5.2.11)

 AE Work Management - The primary cable conduit (30 inches below

grade to the top of the conduit), the transformer pad(s), the transformer

pad stub-outs of secondary or service lateral conduits, and the service

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lateral conduit ahead of the AE meter (24 inches below grade to top of

conduit).

Contact the AE Work Management business unit (or AE Civil Inspection

business unit for Major Project or Network Installations) for an on-site

preconstruction review with AE inspector(s) of the proposed Customer-

installed civil work installation.

 COA Electrical Inspection – Any service conduit installed behind the

AE meter and all of the Customer's metering and service equipment.

(See section 1.2.0 for phone numbers.)

 Where underground work includes conduit for interconnection of a solar

system, AE Solar Inspections must also inspect. (See Distributed

Generation Interconnection section)

IMPORTANT: Do not backfill trench or encase 90-degree bend(s) or any

conduit head of the AE meter until the above inspections by AE have

been completed and approved.

2. AE Responsibility

a. AE shall furnish, install, own, and maintain the following in accordance with

the AE plans and specifications as provided by AE Design:

 Transformer

 Primary riser pole adjacent to Customer’s property line and complete

riser up the pole

 Primary conductors from primary riser pole to transformer. There may be

a charge for the installation of the primary conductors based on the cost

differential between the underground installation cost and an estimated

overhead installation cost to serve the same load.

b. AE shall make the cable terminations at the transformer. The point of service

shall be the secondary compartment of the transformer or as designated by

AE Design.

Primary Voltage Service (Overhead and Underground) - Commercial

General. AE will provide electric service at a primary voltage of 12,470 Wye/7200V to

the point of service upon a Customer’s request and subject to the following conditions:

1. AE Design will determine the primary voltage electric service capacity (kVA)

available at the service location (see 1.5.2.2).

2. For overhead primary voltage service, see 1.5.2.7.B. For underground primary

voltage service, see 1.5.2.7.C.

3. The Customer shall provide an AE-approved fault-interrupting device (fuses,

breaker, or such other device that can also serve as a service disconnect) that will

interrupt the maximum fault current available on the AE distribution system at the

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POS and will coordinate with other AE fault interrupting equipment as determined

by AE Design. The Customer shall provide AE Design with two sets of interrupting

device- operating curves and allow 30 days for evaluation prior to purchasing the

interrupting equipment. Note: Larger primary metered customers that require

any changes to Austin Energy’s feeder relays will be responsible for charges

related to arc flash mitigation up to, and including, replacement of feeders relays.

4. The Customer shall procure at Customer's own expense all facilities and

equipment, including but not limited to primary metering equipment and

enclosure (if underground), fault-current interrupting device, transformers, poles,

conductors, manholes, and such required to take electric service at primary

voltage as required in this Design Criteria and as specified by AE Design and the

AE Distribution Metering Operations business unit.

5. Conversions. The Customer shall assume and pay all costs incurred by AE to

convert the Customer to primary voltage service (plus any system changes if

necessary).

6. AE may deny the primary voltage service option to a Customer if AE Design

determines that providing primary service will have an adverse impact on AE’s

electric system or on service to another Customer.

7. THE CUSTOMER ASSUMES ALL RESPONSIBILITY FOR FURNISHING, INSTALLING,

OWNING, MAINTAINING AND OPERATING ALL FACILITIES ON THE CUSTOMER'S

SIDE OF THE POINT OF SERVICE. All Customer-owned installations shall be in

accordance with the NESC and NEC.

8. The point of service shall be at the primary or metering enclosure. The enclosure

shall be placed at a location nearest existing AE facilities as accepted and

approved by AE Design.

9. In order to provide as continuous a service as possible, it is important for primary

voltage Customers to consult with AE Design concerning the engineering,

operating, and maintenance aspects of the Customer's facilities and possible

problems and hazards associated with primary service. (AE normally does not

provide secondary voltage service(s) to a property or Customer that is already

primary metered but may provide separate secondary voltage service(s), if

available, at a total cost to the Customer.)

10. After consultation with the Customer and his/her engineer and before any

construction has begun, the Customer's engineer shall supply a detailed set of

plans for the proposed primary system to AE Design for review. Things such as

available fault current, both present and future, operating voltage level and

proper coordination of Customer's protective equipment with the facilities of AE

should be determined before the Customer makes any equipment or facilities

selection. In addition, comprehensive mechanical and one-line drawings (two

sets) shall be supplied to AE Design for any switchgear that will interface with AE

facilities.

THE CUSTOMER SHALL FURNISH, INSTALL, OWN, AND MAINTAIN ALL FACILITIES

FOR DISTRIBUTING AND TRANSFORMING PRIMARY VOLTAGE TO ANY OTHER

SERVICE VOLTAGE THAT MAY BE REQUIRED BY THE CUSTOMER.

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Overhead Primary Voltage Service

1. AE will install the overhead primary metering equipment, the meter loop, and the

meter on an AE pole and the Customer will pay the total cost for this installation.

2. The primary meter pole will be the point of service (unless otherwise designated

by AE Design). AE will connect the Customer’s conductors to AE conductors at this

pole.

3. The Customer shall furnish and install an AE-approved primary voltage fault

interrupting device on the Customer’s first pole or other supporting structure on

the load side of the point of service in accordance with the City's specifications

and requirements. These installations shall be approved by AE Design to ensure

compatibility with existing AE equipment.

4. AE shall maintain all facilities up to the point of service.

5. The Customer shall be responsible for maintaining all facilities beyond the point of

service.

6. The COA DSD Building Inspection division (and other regulating bodies) will

inspect the installation of the Customer's primary service and equipment on the

load side of the Customer’s point of service including the primary metering

enclosure.

Underground Primary Voltage Service

1. The Customer shall furnish and install conduit with respect to final grade in

accordance with AE Design's specifications from the Customer's primary metering

enclosure to the AE pole or a point on the Customer's property line designated by

AE Design. Contact AE Design for details.

2. Where required, AE shall furnish and install conduit offsite from the Customer's

property line to AE’s facilities at the Customer’s expense.

3. AE shall furnish and install primary cables from AE's facilities to Customer's

primary metering enclosure. The Customer shall furnish and install a primary

metering enclosure. The enclosure shall contain:

a. The primary fault protection equipment (to separate the Customer’s facilities

from the AE distribution system in the event of a fault on the Customer’s

system)

b. The switching/disconnect equipment

c. The metering transformers (potential transformers and current transformers

pre- wired to terminal boards for easy external access) as a part of the

primary metering equipment enclosure at the point of service in accordance

with AE’s specifications and requirements (Contact AE Design).

AE Design and the AE Distribution Metering Operation business unit shall

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inspect and approve this installation to ensure compatibility with existing AE

equipment.

4. The AE meter shall be mounted on a separate stand installed on an extension of the

primary metering enclosure pad or on a separate pad adjacent to (must be visible

from and not more than 30 feet from) the primary metering enclosure pad similar to

Section 1.18.0 Appendix and Exhibits, Figure 1-11 for secondary metering installed

in the secondary compartments of pad-mounted transformers.

5. AE shall maintain all facilities to the point of service.

6. The COA Electrical Inspection division (and other regulating bodies) will inspect the

final installation of the Customer's metering enclosure and all the primary service

equipment on the load side of the Customer’s point of service.

7. The Customer shall be responsible for maintaining all facilities beyond the point of

service except AE meters.

Service from Open Bushing Transformers in Fenced Enclosures - Commercial

New installations of AE open bushing transformers in fenced enclosures shall not be

approved. Existing installations with this style of service shall be changed to pad-

mounted transformer service if the Customer’s service is enlarged or modified (see

1.5.2.6).

Conversion to pad-mounted transformer service shall also conform to the following

conditions:

1. The Customer shall furnish and install the concrete pad and conduit system in

accordance with a design provided by AE Design. This includes:

a. Pull-boxes and/or manholes, load bearing or nonbearing, at the base of the

pole

b. Stub-up from the pull-box and/or manhole to pole

c. First 10-foot section of riser conduit (rigid metal) up the pole.

2. AE shall furnish and install the primary conductor from AE’s riser pole to the

transformer.

3. AE shall furnish and install the transformers.

4. The Customer shall furnish and install the service-entrance conductors to the

secondary bushings of the AE transformer(s).

Secondary Voltage Service to Multiple-Meter/Shell Commercial Buildings

Service Disconnects and Meters. All multiple meter/shell buildings shall have all

service disconnects and meters grouped in a common location on the exterior finished

surface of the building or structure after and adjacent to the service distribution

enclosure. All meters and disconnects shall be permanently sequentially marked, in

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order of each respective occupancy or unit. Each meter shall have a service disconnect

consisting of one fused switch or circuit breaker. There shall not be any means of

disconnect ahead of the SDE or wireway.

All new service terminal blocks ahead of the meter(s) shall be located in the service

distribution enclosure. The wireway and SDE should be sized according to the table SDE

and Wireway Specifications in Section 1.8.5. Commercial transocket or CT services. –

the conductors for a CT service may also use the common wireway if the CT service is

located on the end of the wireway. Transocket or CT services served from a common

wireway shall be limited to one service disconnect.

The electrical service for multiple meter/shell building shall comply with the following

requirements unless written approval is obtained from AE Design. (Customers should

also contact the COA DSD Building Inspections division or the Development Assistance

Center.)

1. A multiple meter/shell building shall be given only one secondary voltage from

AE’s facilities. All metered occupancies in that building shall be required to design

their service to use that one voltage. If an occupant requires another voltage,

then it shall be the Customer’s responsibility to furnish, install, own, and maintain

the equipment necessary to transform AE’s voltage to the voltage required.

EXCEPTIONS: 1) A building or structure that has a point of service with 120/240V

or 120/208V service voltage (such as, strip shopping center) may be given

additional points of service for lease space(s) having an estimated demand of 600

kVA or greater (such as anchor store) as determined by AE Design. 2) Buildings

greater than 400 feet in length may qualify for an additional point of service.

Contact AE Design.

EXCEPTION: For 277/480V self-contained meter sockets, the service disconnect

shall be installed on the line side (ahead) of the metering equipment. [LINE–

DISCONNECT–METER–LOAD] (see 1.5.2.4.B.11 and 12).

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: To allow ample space for future services, the

Customer should stack the service disconnect and the meter socket.

2. The Customer shall furnish, install, own, and maintain equipment on the load side

(after) of the point of service, including, but not limited to, service equipment,

conduits, conductors, service distribution enclosures, junction boxes, wireways,

CT enclosures, transockets, meter pedestals, modular metering, and all related

apparatus. Each Customer’s service installation shall be approved by COA Plan

Review and DSD Building Inspections divisions, with maximum consideration to its

impact on the future installation of services. No installation shall be approved that

materially hinders the addition of future services.

3. For underground installations, the Customer shall install conductors in the rear

conduits of the secondary compartment of the AE pad-mount transformer first to

allow easy access for future service. Conduits shall be installed from the secondary

compartment of the padmount transformer to the service distribution enclosure so

that the rear conduits in the transformer are also the rear conduits in the service

distribution enclosure. Load side conductors are not permitted to exit the bottom

section of the service distribution enclosure. This area shall be reserved for the line

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side conductors.

4. The Customer is responsible for all terminations in the service distribution

enclosure.

5. The Customer’s initial electrical installation shall include the following:

a. Service distribution enclosure. Contact the Development Review & Inspection

or COA DSD Building Inspections division for information and written approval

prior to purchasing and installation.

b. The required number and size of service conductors, as per calculated load for

entire building per the NEC, must be pulled from the point of service and

properly terminated in service distribution enclosure

c. Proper service grounding and bonding as indicated in 1.5.2.1.O Grounding and

Bonding of Electric Services.

d. Wireways, metering equipment, service disconnects, terminal blocks, lugs,

and any other equipment to complete service installation as required.

• For underground services, adherence to AE Design requirements (such as

transformer pads, primary and secondary conduit, primary and

secondary risers, service boxes, and pull-boxes) is mandatory (see

1.5.2.4).

• For overhead services, one or multiple one-point racks and weatherheads

should be installed as required (see 1.5.2.3.A.5). Every weatherhead

shall have a neutral conductor(s) and the neutral conductor(s) must

have the full current-carrying capacity of the largest energized

conductor(s).

6. House Meter. The Customer may install one self-contained meter socket for

security lighting, fire safety, sprinkler system, and such. The service conductors

for this service may be served from either the service distribution enclosure or

point of service (the Customer may request and install an optional 2-inch conduit

in the pad-mounted transformer secondary compartment for the house meter

service). The location of the meter socket and service disconnect shall be within

sight of (or visible and not more than 50 feet from) the service distribution

enclosure.

Overhead Service: Remember in planning for a house meter that no more than

six service conductors per phase shall be connected at the point of service.

Underground Service: The optional 2-inch house meter conduit is in addition to the

maximum number of conduits permitted by the AE Design. If there is ample space,

it shall be installed at the rear of the secondary compartment of the pad-mount

transformer behind the required conduits.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: The house meter service should be installed so as to

allow ample space for future services.

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HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: For safety reasons, the Customer should contact AE to

have the electric power de-energized before working inside a service distribution

enclosure. The Customer is responsible for forewarning other tenants being served

from this enclosure and/or transformer when de-energizing will occur.

Secondary Voltage Service to Combination Commercial/Residential Buildings

Combination commercial/residential buildings, such as multi-story condominiums or

apartments with commercial/retail businesses on the first few floors and residential

dwellings on the upper floors, may be served with separate secondary voltage services

and treated as separate commercial and multi-metered residential Customers (at the

Customer’s request) under the following conditions:

1. The commercial and residential portions are grouped such that they are distinctly

separate load areas as determined by AE Design

2. Electrically separate systems are separated from each other by a 2-hour fire wall

minimum

3. Both services are not accessible from the same space as determined by the COA

DSD Building Inspections division and any other authorized inspection entity.

The residential and commercial services will both be subject to the respective conditions

and requirements of this Design Criteria. All AE metering must be installed at the first

floor or ground level (except as allowed in writing by AE Distribution Metering). If

metering is allowed above the first floor/ground level, it must be accessible by AE

personnel from the ground level 24/7. The main disconnects for each metering room

must be located at the ground floor level. (See Section 1.8.4) For more information,

contact AE Design.

Combination commercial/residential buildings that are not grouped into distinctly

separate commercial and residential areas (as determined by AE Design) will be treated

as all commercial per the requirements of this Design Criteria Manual.

All three-phase service requests and all single-phase requests where the services to both

the commercial and residential sections of a combination building (or to separate

residential and commercial buildings) must be provided from the same AE transformer

will be treated as all commercial as far as Customer requirements are concerned and

are subject to the commercial requirements of this Design Criteria and AE Design.

Electric Service Inspections – Commercial

AE Work Management shall inspect all commercial (non-network) underground civil

work installed by the Customer for AE facilities and all service lateral conduit ahead of

the AE meter except as designated by AE Design. The inspection of any underground

civil work must be completed before the Customer backfills the excavation.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Contact the AE Work Management business unit for an on-

site preconstruction review with civil work inspector of the proposed civil installation.

Where underground work includes conduit for interconnection of a solar system, AE

Solar Inspections must also inspect. (See Distributed Generation Interconnection

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section)

COA DSD Building Inspections division must inspect all underground Customer-

installed, -owned, and -maintained service lateral conductors (see Section 1.2.0).

Again, AE Work Management shall inspect all service lateral conduits installed ahead of

the AE meter.

AE Distribution Metering Operations, AE Spots & Conduit, or AE Distribution Design

(depending on the nature and stage of the project) shall inspect all Customer electric

service installations (new or changes to existing) on the exterior finished surface of a

building or structure served by AE up to and including the point of service. Inspections

are completed both during construction and upon completion to ensure compliance

with the NESC and the AE Design Criteria.

AE cannot install or energize the permanent electric service until the electric service

inspection has been made and approved as required in this Design Criteria, and AE has

received notice of inspection/written approval from the COA DSD Building Inspections

division (and any other authorized City of Austin entity).

Only AE may make the connections (and disconnections) of the Customer's wiring to

AE's facilities. In addition, only AE personnel may remove AE meters or break City

seals except in cases specifically authorized by AE or its designee (call AE Distribution

Metering Operations business unit). The following will be inspected by AE, or its

designee, prior to or at the time of the connection of metering equipment as indicated:

1. Meter Socket(s) – COA DSD Building Inspections division (EIS)

2. Service Distribution Enclosure – EIS.

3. CT Meter Services – AE Distribution Metering Operations business unit.

4. Old service check (no meter at location) – Start with COA Development Services

Department.

5. Turn on the meter (meter existing) – AE at time service is turned on.

6. Read and change meter – AE at the time of reading and change.

RESIDENTIAL Service in Non-Network Areas

(See section 1.3.0 and 1.4.0)

General Conditions and Requirements – Residential

Prior to Electrical Service Installation. Before starting work on any new or

upgraded electric service, the Customer shall ensure the land is a legal lot or tract as

required under the City of Austin Land Development Code.

Contact AE Design or AE Spots & Conduit. (See Section 1.4.0) In order to facilitate

electric service availability when needed, the Customer should discuss all electrical

service issues with AE Design or AE Spots & Conduit well in advance of the desired

service date to determine the requirements and time frame for providing electric

service. Necessary information that should be included in the ESPA includes the exact

location of the property to be served, such as street address, lot and block number of

the subdivision, service voltage, equipment characteristics, connected load, and the

size of the service entrance equipment including equipment ratings.

Charges. The Customer may be required to pay AE a line extension charge and/or an

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excess facilities/excess costs charge (see Section 1.3.0). AE Design will determine the

applicable charges.

Service Location/Property Address. Property address must be located so that it will

be visible from public right of way before the installation of the temporary meter loop

The address must be clearly marked on the meter loop, meter pole, and/or meter pole

braces. The property address must be visible during the design and construction phase

and after completion of the project.

Accessibility. AE infrastructure facilities will only be placed in locations that are

always truck accessible (see Section 1.3.16).

Grounding and Bonding of Electric Services. Electric services, including, but not

limited to, service equipment, raceways, service distribution enclosures, junction boxes,

wireways, enclosures, and any service conductor to be grounded/bonded must be

grounded/bonded in accordance with the NEC.

EXCEPTION: The grounding/bonding conductors for all services shall be copper only,

with a minimum size of #6 AWG.

Meter Loop Location. Residential meter loops must not be installed on manufactured

homes, mobile homes, portable buildings, or similar structures that are not legally a

part of the property. (Exceptions are approved service poles, structures, pedestals,

and such.)

The Spot & Conduit business unit and/or AE Design shall designate and approve meter

and service equipment locations (see Sections 1.5.3.6 & 1.5.3.7 for multiple metered

buildings). The meter location(s) should normally be on the first floor or ground level.

AE Design must approve meter location exceptions in writing.

Electric Permit Requirements for Meter Loop Placement/Meter Loop

Replacement. An electric permit will be required for any new meter loop or for any

meter loop replacement. Any replacement meter loop must be installed according to

current codes whenever there is a need to replace a meter loop or a meter loop pole

(such as replace a rotten service pole).

COMMENT: When residential services are being rebuilt for upgrade or repair, the

Customer should contact COA DSD Building Inspections division for written approval of

service entrance equipment and method of installation.

Three-phase is not a standard AE residential service voltage. For Customers requesting

three-phase secondary voltage service for residential dwellings, AE Design must

approve such requests and determine if there will be an excess facilities cost. The

Customer must take service under the conditions and requirements of commercial

service (see Section 1.5.2.11). The point of service for three-phase service shall be the

secondary compartment of the transformer or as designated by AE Design.

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Available Residential Electric Service

Electric residential service available in the AE service area (excluding network) is as follows in Table

1.5.3.2.

Table 1.5.3.2

VOLTAGE

[2] [3] [5]

RESIDENTIAL [4]

Overhead

Secondary Riser

Underground

min

max

min

Max

min

Max

120/240V, 1PH,

3-Wire

[1]

800

[1]

800

[1]

800

[1] Contact AE Design concerning the AE Line Extension Policy

[2] Standard residential service voltage is 120/240V single-phase. Contact AE Design if you have any

questions or other residential service requirements.

[3] If the available service does not meet the Customer's requirements as requested in the ESPA, AE may

agree to supply the type of electric service Customer requires at an additional cost to the Customer if

1) the request is feasible and if 2) the Customer’s equipment and/or the manner of use does not

jeopardize the quality of service to other AE Customers as determined by AE Design.

[4] 750 kcmil is the maximum wire size allowed.

[5] For the purpose of sizing AE facilities, AE Design shall determine the maximum expected Customer

demand load amps that will be seen by AE facilities from the Customer’s total connected undiversified

load information and building size as documented on the ESPA form. AE facilities will be sized by AE

Design accordingly. The maximum demand load amp services available from AE are defined in Table

1.5.2.2.

Overhead Residential Installations

Standard AE residential electric service is single-phase overhead on wood poles. AE

installs, owns, and maintains the overhead facilities (primary, secondary, and service

drops) from AE facilities to the point of service.

A permanent overhead service drop not installed on the building or structure

shall meet the following requirements:

1. Be installed on a rack.

2. Consist of non-corrosive metal.

3. Be supported by galvanized rigid steel 4-inch minimum diameter or a 6” x 6”

pressure treated pole/post.

The poles/posts shall be installed a minimum of 3 feet deep encased in concrete.

Rack shall be installed permanently with sufficient bracing and shall be stationary.

For Customer services requiring meter bases rated over 350 amps, the pole or

rack will need to be engineered and a drawing provided confirming that the

structure will support the AE overhead service tension. AE Design will provide the

pole/structure loading requirements for the overhead service.

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

Service-Drop Conductors - Residential

1. General. Overhead service-drop conductors that are furnished and installed by AE

connect AE's supply lines to the Customer-provided service conductors. The point

of service is the point at which AE's and the Customer's conductors are connected

at the weatherhead(s) and one-point rack(s) location or as designated by AE

Design. All connections of AE conductors at the point of service shall be made by

AE. For multiple weatherhead installations, every weatherhead shall have a

neutral conductor and the neutral conductor must have the full current-carrying

capacity of the largest energized conductor.

2. Clearances/Attachment Heights. NESC (Section 23) along with AE Design

requirements require minimum clearances for service-drop conductors from final

grade or other accessible surfaces. These minimum required clearances shall be

maintained at all times. To facilitate these clearances, minimum attachment

heights shall be as listed in Table 1.5.3.3.C.2. For more information, contact AE

Design.

TABLE 1.5.3.3.C.2

CLEARANCES AND ATTACHMENT HEIGHTS FOR SERVICE-DROP CONDUCTORS

RESIDENTIAL SERVICES

Minimum Clearance

From Final Grade/

Other Accessible

Surface (Feet)

Attachment Height

1,2

Minimum

(Feet)

Maximum

(Feet)

Residential services over areas

accessible to pedestrians only.

12.5

Services passing over driveways, or

parking lots and alleys (not subject

to truck traffic).

Services passing over roads, streets,

alleys, parking lots, subject to truck

traffic or other land such as

cultivated, grazing, forest, orchards,

etc. traversed by vehicles.

A minimum clearance above the roof of 18 inches to mast shall be permitted for

service mast installations, including, but not limited to service-mast (through-the-roof)

installations where the voltage between conductors does not exceed 300V.

Where the voltage between conductors does not exceed 300V and the mast is located

within 4 feet of the edge of the roof and above only the overhanging portion of the roof, a

minimum clearance of 18 inches shall be permitted for service-mast (through-the-roof)

installation. No more than 10 feet of service-drop conductors may pass above the roof

overhang.

No more than 6 feet of service-drop conductors may pass over the roof to the structure it

serves.

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

1. The Spot & Conduit business unit (for single-phase services) or AE Design business unit (for three-phase

services) may approve an attachment height, other than those listed in this table, based on the

circumstances at the site location. However, minimum attachment height shall be maintained at all times

to meet NESC requirements.

2. Attachment heights should in no case exceed the maximum as listed unless approved in advance by AE Spot

& Conduit business unit (for single-phase services) or AE Design (for three-phase services).

3. All clearances shall comply with rules and exceptions as stated in the NESC in

addition to the following:

a. Where physical features, such as terrain or vegetation are unusual, additional

attachment height may be required to allow for conductor sag.

b. Service Mast (Supporting/Through Roof): Service mast must be a minimum 2-

inch Intermediate Metal Conduit. Service mast through the roof and over 4

feet from strapping or supports must be guyed within 3 inches of the point of

attachment. The one- point rack may be attached to service mast, provided

the service mast is supporting and through the roof. When a one-point rack

(clamp-on type) is attached to service mast, no fittings, such as couplings,

may be located between the roof and point of attachment.

c. Service Mast (Non-supporting/Not-Through-Roof): Service mast must be Rigid

Metal, Intermediate Metal, or EMT conduit. The one-point rack may not be

attached to a non-supporting/not-through-roof service mast.

d. A maximum of 6 feet of service-drop conductors may pass over the roof of

the structure being served, regardless of required height above the roof

and/or slope of the roof. (Location must be accessible to AE personnel.)

e. Service-drop conductors shall not pass within 5 feet, measured horizontally,

or over or under any portion of a building or structure to provide service to

another building or structure. Additional clearances may be required as

indicated in Section 23 of the NESC.

EXCEPTION: A maximum of 10 feet of service-drop conductors may pass

over the roof of the building or structure to which the service-drop is not

attached and/or slope of the roof when the service drop meets all the

following conditions:

• The building or structure is on the same piece of property and owned by

the same Customer as the building being served to which the service-

drop is attached (such as a garage or storage building)

• The voltage between the service-drop conductors does not exceed 300

volts

• The minimum vertical clearance is a minimum of 3.5 feet,

f. Service-drop conductors must not pass within 7.5 feet, measured horizontally,

or over or under signs, chimneys, billboards, radio and television antennas,

tanks, and other installations not classified as buildings. Additional clearances

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December 12, 2023

may be required as indicated in Section 23 of the NESC.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: For safety reasons, the Customer should contact

AE to de-energize the electric power before working near AE facilities.

4. Anchorage of Overhead Service-Drop Conductors

a. The Customer must provide (1) an adequate anchorage for the service-drop

conductors using a one-point rack for residential services or multiple one-

point racks for large residential services and (2) a suitable location for AE's

metering equipment. Customer shall furnish install, own and maintain the

one-point rack(s).

b. For services rated 800 amps or less, a single one-point rack shall be used for

3-wire and 4-wire. The rack shall be installed within 12 inches below the

weatherhead at the required attachment height.

For services rated over 800 amps, three one-point racks must be installed for

3- wire services and four one-point racks for 4-wire services. The racks shall

be installed 10 to 12 inches apart, measured center to center.

Factory-assembled racks are allowed, as approved by AE Design. The

Customer shall furnish, install, own, and maintain these racks.

Multiple racks installed horizontally must be installed a maximum of 12 inches

below the weatherhead(s) at the required attachment height. The center point

of the racks must be directly below the weatherhead(s).

Multiple racks installed vertically shall be installed with the highest rack within

12 inches below the weatherhead and the lowest rack at the required

attachment height.

c. The service-drop conductors must be attached to a permanent building or

structure nearest AE's last designated facilities (pole). The Spot & Conduit

business unit or AE Design shall determine the point of attachment on the

Customer’s building or structure.

At AE’s option and discretion, the attachment may be made at some other

point, either because of the location and type of AE’s distribution system or

in order to conform with the construction of the building. This point of

attachment must be agreed upon by the Customer and the Spot & Conduit

business unit or AE Design (see Section 1.4.0) before the installation of the

service conductors, service equipment, one-point rack(s), metering

equipment, or any other wiring on the premises.

Customer must furnish, install, own and maintain the one-point rack(s) at this

point of attachment.

d. In order to provide adequate support for the service, the Customer must

make provisions for the dead-end attachment (one-point rack) to be securely

attached to the structural frame of the building using a minimum ½-inch

diameter threaded bolt with nut and washers. On a wood frame structure,

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December 12, 2023

the Customer shall provide a securely attached minimum size 2-inch x 4-inch

header for this purpose. Meter sockets and service entrance to the point of

service are not considered complete until the one-point rack(s) has been

properly installed.

e. Wherever the building height does not permit the required clearances for the

service-drop conductors, the Customer must provide approved permanent

metal service supports (see 1.5.3.3.B).

Service Drop Lengths. The Customer's permanent/temporary service entrance

facilities must be installed according to the following requirements relative to the

service drop length (see also Section 1.10.6.1):

10-foot

minimum

Regardless of service size: Service drop attachment must be located out from

under AE facilities measured horizontally from and perpendicular to AE's

facilities (poles and overhead lines) (Also see Section 1.10.6.1.) AE will

determine total permissible service drop length.

75-foot

maximum

For service entrance equipment rated 225 amps or less: Service drop length

measured horizontally/radially, from AE's facilities (pole serving Customer's

facilities)

55-foot

maximum

For service entrance equipment rated over 225 amps but 350 amps or less:

Service drop length measured horizontally/radially from AE’s facilities (pole

service Customer’s facilities)

Contact AE

Design

For service entrance equipment rated more than 350 amps.

All other maximum service lengths for larger loads or other smaller load conditions that

allow longer service drop lengths than shown above shall be specified by AE Design.

Point of attachment must be able to withstand 400 pounds of conductor tension.

Service Head (Weatherhead)

1. Customer’s Service Conductors. To permit connection with AE's service-drop

conductors, the Customer’s service conductors must extend as follows according to

the wire size:

#6 AWG through #1/0 AWG 18-inch minimum plus the distance from the

service head to the rack

#2/0 AWG and larger 36-inch minimum plus the distance from the

service head to the rack

If these conductor lengths are not provided, the Customer must rewire to meet the

requirement. All Customer service conductors shall have correct phase

identification markings 12 inches from the service weatherhead.

2. The weatherhead head shall be approved weatherproof construction and installed

to prevent the entrance of rain. The service head shall terminate above and within

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12 inches of the one-point rack on the building, where the structure will permit.

3. For multiple weatherheads, customer service conductors shall reach the rack(s) on

the building (plus 36 inches). AE SHALL CONNECT THE CUSTOMER’S

CONDUCTORS WITH AE’S SERVICE-DROP CONDUCTORS. No more than six

service conductors per phase will be connected at the point of service.

4. For multiple weatherhead installations, every weatherhead shall have a neutral

conductor. The neutral conductor must have the full current-carrying capacity of

the largest energized conductor.

Tree Trimming. The Customer is responsible for all tree-trimming activities on the

Customer’s property required by AE to allow for the safe installation of new (or for

Customer-requested modifications to) electrical facilities by AE. The customer shall not

trim trees adjacent to AE energized facilities. If such trimming is required or deemed

necessary, contact Tree Trimming (512) 322-6771.

Clearances. See Sections 1.5.3.3.C.2 and 1.10.0.

Underground Residential Electric Service Installations

Underground Service Conditions and Requirements

1. AE normally requires the Customer to install with respect to final grade all the civil

work (see item 5 below) for underground AE facilities located on the Customer’s

property as designated by AE Design (see Section 1.4.0).

2. Underground Service Lateral from Existing AE Underground Facilities. See Service

Only in Section 1.4.2.3.

3. Underground Agreement for Electric Service (Letter of Agreement). The conditions

and costs for underground electric service, or infrastructure, supplied to a

Customer shall be covered by an Agreement for Electric Service letter provided by

AE Design.

IMPORTANT: This agreement by AE to the serve a particular installation

underground applies only to the specified wiring and equipment (or the particular

AE electrical distribution infrastructure needed) at the Customer-specified location

given on the ESPA. The Customer must notify AE Design as soon as possible

concerning any contemplated change so that proper provisions may be made for

adequate service, connection, and metering facilities.

4. AE-installed underground residential service lateral conductors shall be installed a

maximum of 150 feet from the Customer's service equipment to AE’s nearest

designated service box, pull-box, or transformer. All services exceeding 200 feet

shall be referred to AE Design for voltage drop and flicker calculations and

determining the cost to the Customer.

5. Customer-installed Civil Work

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December 12, 2023

a. Customer-installed underground primary, secondary, and service conduit on

the Customer’s property for AE facilities and all conduit installed on the line

side (ahead) of the AE metering equipment shall be installed with respect to

final grade and shall not be installed under or through a building or structure

(including, but not limited to, porches, stairways, decks, carports, garages,

and storage buildings).

b. All primary, secondary, and service conduit in which AE installs the conductors

and all service conduit ahead of the AE meter shall be limited to a maximum

of two 90-degree bends, or equivalent, between accessible pulling points

(such as transformer, service box, pull-box, or meter socket). AE Design shall

determine installation requirements of primary and secondary risers and

underground conduit.

c. Service conduit, from the point of service or the last AE facility to the last 90-

degree bend ahead of the metering equipment shall be intermediate metal or

schedule 80 PVC. The last 90-degree bend with 24-inch minimum bend

radius and the service riser shall be rigid metal or schedule 80 PVC where

conduit is installed in backfill, and minimum schedule 40 PVC when encased in

concrete. No heated bends are permitted. There shall be no additional bends

between the service riser and the AE metering equipment.

d. Secondary/service conduit runs of more than 75 feet shall also include an AE

approved pull-string.

CAUTION: The Customer is not allowed under any circumstances to enter

any AE equipment, manhole, pull-box, or other such facilities containing AE

primary voltage cable. (Contact AE Design or AE Spots and Conduit)

e. Primary cable conduit must be installed a minimum of 30 inches deep and

secondary and service conduit must be installed a minimum of 24 inches deep

measured to the top of the conduit with for the current grade and not less

than 30 and 24 inches respectively for the final grade

Only communication cables are allowed in the same trench with electric

conduits and shall be installed a minimum of 6 inches from the top electrical

conduit (See Section 1.10.5.A). Communication conduits are not allowed over

AE main line duct banks (see main line definition in glossary.). For more

information, contact AE Design.

f. The Customer-installed civil work (conduit, pads, and such) required for

permanent underground service (or infrastructure) shall meet the

requirements as specified in this Design Criteria and as required by AE Design

by drawing and/or in the Agreement for Electric Service. The service

installation shall be completed from the last or closest AE facility and/or point

of service, as determined by AE, up to and including the service equipment.

Civil work installation shall meet the requirements of AE Design and this

Design Criteria. For more information, contact AE Design.

g. After the civil work for AE facilities has been installed, inspected, and approved

by AE, the final grade shall not be changed by any excavation, filling,

landscaping, or sodding without the prior written approval of Austin Energy

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(see Section 1.10.10).

h. AE Responsibility for Customer-installed Facilities. AE ASSUMES NO

RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY PORTION OF THE CUSTOMER'S INSTALLATION. AE

reserves the right to discontinue or refuse service to any apparatus or device

which is not properly constructed, controlled, and protected, or for which the

Customer has not provided the necessary easements or obtained the required

inspections and permits, or for which (in AE’s opinion) may adversely affect

the services to any Customer or that may be an improper or unsafe type.

Underground Residential Service from a Secondary Riser

1. General. In areas where overhead primary distribution facilities are available, the

secondary riser is the preferred method of providing underground 120/240V

single- phase service for 800 amps or less of maximum demand ampacity as

determined by AE Design and that meet conditions outlined in Table 1.5.3.2.

Underground pad-mount transformer services in overhead areas for such loads

will be provided at the discretion of AE Design or if the Customer pays for the

additional cost of such a service.

2. Customer Installation Responsibilities

a. The Customer shall furnish and install a service box (load bearing or

nonbearing) at the base of the pole as specified by AE Design. An additional

secondary pullbox past the pullbox at the base of the pole (maximum of 2

pullboxes) will be allowed where the maximum distance between pullboxes is

150 feet, the pullbox nearest to the customers’ property is the point of

service, and the customer is responsible for pulling the wire from the point of

service (nearest pullbox) to the meter.

b. The Customer shall furnish and install the stub-up from service box/pull-box

to the pole and a first 10-foot section of riser conduit (rigid metal) up pole.

Riser's 90-degree bend with minimum 24-inch bend set by Customer shall be

a rigid metal conduit and encased in concrete. The number and size of riser

conduits will be determined by AE Design.

c. The Customer shall dig and backfill trench from meter/service location to

service box/pull-box. Trench (on the Customer’s property) shall be a

minimum of 24 inches deep from grade to the top of service conduit.

d. The Customer shall furnish, install, and maintain the service conduit

(approved rigid metal or schedule 80 PVC) from the last 90-degree bend

ahead of the meter/service location to service box/pull-box. The last 90-

degree bend with 24-inch minimum bend radius and the service riser shall be

approved rigid metal or schedule 80 PVC where conduit is installed in backfill,

and minimum schedule 40 PVC when encased in concrete. Service conduit

shall be 2, 3, 4, or 5 inches with no half sizes permitted.

e. The Customer shall furnish, install, own, and maintain the service conductors

from meter/service location into service box/pull-box. The point of service

shall be the service box/pull-box or as designated by AE Design. The

Customer shall leave a 36-inch minimum conductor tail extending from the

top of the service box or pull-box. If a bonding conductor is required by the

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NEC, the Customer shall install the bonding conductor, and AE shall make the

necessary connections.

f. Service/pull box size based on secondary conductor size and number of

conductors installed and planned for future installations.

g. The Customer shall request the following inspections:

 AE Work Management - inspects the service lateral conduit from the

service box/pull-box to the meter, meter pedestal, or service equipment

location, the service-box/pull-box, and the conduit from the service-

box/pull- box to the secondary riser, including the 90-degree bend and

the 10-foot riser conduit up the pole. AE installs conductors from the

serve-box/pull-box up the pole.

Contact the AE Work Management business unit (or AE Civil Inspection

business unit for Major Project or Network Installations) for an on-site

preconstruction review with AE inspector(s) of the proposed Customer-

installed civil work installation.

 COA DSD Building Inspections Division - inspects the Customer’s

service conductors from the service box/pull-box to the meter and

service equipment location. Customer installs conductors from the

service-box/pull-box to the meter.

Do not backfill trench or encase 90-degree bend(s) or conduit in

concrete until the above inspections have been completed and

approved.

3. AE Installation Responsibility

a. Install riser conduit on pole to complete riser.

b. Install conductors in riser conduit from pole-mounted transformer(s) into

service-box/pull-box.

c. Connect AE conductors with Customer service conductors at the point of

service.

Underground Service from Pad-Mounted Transformers to Residential Lots and

Subdivisions

1. General. Where the underground AE electric infrastructure is made available to

individual residential lots by means of a system of underground primary voltage

cable, secondary voltage cable, pad-mounted transformers, and associated

equipment, the Customer (Developer/Builder) must provide space on his or her

property for the required AE facilities and equipment.

The Customer must install the civil work for AE facilities installed on the

Customer’s property and pay AE any additional cost differential between the

overhead and underground distribution costs. AE Design will determine this cost.

The Customer must also grant the City an easement on the City's standard form

for such installations and any associated underground cable. The padmount

transformers and their accessory equipment must be installed on concrete pads.

All Customer-installed civil work for AE facilities must comply with all provisions of

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December 12, 2023

the City of Austin Design Criteria, NESC, NEC, AE Design requirements, and any

applicable AE specifications, rules, standards, regulations, and conditions. For

more information, contact AE Design.

2. AE will provide single-phase, 120/240V service to residential units with a total

combined ampere rating of service disconnects that shall not exceed 350 amps for

a single, self-contained meter or 800 amps for a service consisting of two to four

meters or CT service. For larger single-phase services, Customer should contact

AE Design for availability. (See Table 1.5.3.2 for available service.)

3. In subdivisions completed (utilities installed and available at property line for

construction of dwelling units) prior to July 31, 1997, the Customer (generally)

must meet the requirements of the July 1, 1997 Developer/Builder Policy for

Subdivisions (see 1.5.3.4.C.5 or 6).

4. In subdivisions completed (utilities installed and available at property line for

construction of dwelling units) after July 31, 1997, the Customer (generally) must

meet the requirements of the July 1, 1997 Developer/Builder Policy for

Subdivisions (see 1.5.3.4.C.5 or.6).

5. Developer/Builder Policy for Subdivisions. As of July 31, 1997, unless otherwise

agreed by AE in its sole discretion, underground service in new residential areas is

available according to the following policy:

a. Developer/Builder is responsible for all civil work required to extend electrical

facilities according to AE’s design and construction requirements as required

in the Agreement for Electric Service, this Design Criteria, the NEC, NESC,

and all applicable codes, rules, regulations, standards, specifications, and

such.

b. Developer/Builder must acquire and provide all of the required materials

including, but not limited to the conduit, bell ends, service boxes/ pull-boxes,

manholes, manhole covers, or junction boxes. Materials used must meet AE's

detailed specifications. No heated bends are permitted.

c. Developer/Builder is responsible for conducting all trenching and backfilling

activities, including, but not limited to, those required to install the primary

and secondary duct systems, installation of service boxes/pull-boxes,

conduit, bell ends and for building the concrete transformer pads and meter

pedestal foundations according to the AE Design Criteria and AE Design

requirements.

d. AE reserves the right to inspect the quality of materials as well as the

construction phase of a project during the installation of any materials and

equipment by the Developer/Builder.

e. The Developer/Builder and/or Property Owner shall furnish, install, own and

maintain electrical facilities beyond the point of service. AE will furnish, install,

own, and maintain the meter.

f. AE shall furnish, install, own, and maintain conductors and equipment needed

to provide electrical service to residential facilities located on AE's side of the

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point of service with the exception of the Customer-installed civil work, which

shall be furnished and installed by the Customer.

g. AE-installed underground residential service laterals shall be installed to the

closest point of attachment on the residence (or as designated by AE Spots

and Conduit). The maximum standard service length is 150 feet from the

Customer's service equipment to AE’s nearest designated service box, pull-

box, or transformer. All service lengths exceeding 150 feet and/or where

additional facilities, materials, and/or labor are required may necessitate

additional costs and civil work requirements to the Customer.

Secondary/service conduit runs of more than 75 feet shall also include a pull-

string approved by AE.

h. At the house, the Customer shall complete and have inspected the installation

of the service lateral riser conduit and 90-degree bend (either intermediate

metal or schedule 80 PVC), the metering equipment, and the service

disconnect (located on the exterior finished surface of the building or

structure) before requesting the service lateral installation by AE.

6. Developer/Builder Optional Policy for Residential Lots & Subdivisions using Meter

Pedestals. Effective June 1, 2005, unless otherwise agreed by AE in its sole

discretion, underground service in new residential areas is available for up to 200

ampere maximum underground residential services using meter pedestals

according to the following optional policy:

For Customer-provided Meter Pedestals: The point of service will be a meter

pedestal provided and installed by the Customer on each individual residential lot

(or for multiple lots) as specified in this Design Criteria or designated by AE

Design. The Customer shall furnish, install, own, and maintain the meter

pedestal(s) and pedestal pad(s) as specified and approved by AE Design, the AE

Distribution Metering Operation business unit, and the COA DSD Building

Inspections division. The meter pedestal must be located on the Customer’s

property and no more than 5 feet from the property line closest to the AE facilities

as designated by AE Design.

(The Customer must obtain an electric permit from the COA Service Center and

obtain an inspection from the COA DSD Building Inspections division for the

customer-owned and -installed pedestal and underground service and if located

outside of the COA, inspections from any other authorized inspection entity.)

a. Developer/Builder is responsible for all civil work required to extend primary

and secondary electrical facilities according to AE’s design and construction

requirements as required in the Agreement for Electric Service, this Design

Criteria, the NEC, NESC, and all applicable codes, rules, regulations,

standards, specifications, and such.

b. Developer/Builder is responsible for acquiring and providing all of the required

materials including, but not limited to the conduit, bell ends, meter pedestals,

service-boxes/pull-boxes, manholes, manhole covers, or junction boxes.

Materials used must meet AE's detailed specifications.

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c. Developer/Builder is responsible for building all concrete transformer and

pedestal pads and conducting all trenching and backfilling activities,

including, but not limited to, those required to install the primary and

secondary conduit/duct systems, meter pedestals/pull-boxes, and conduit

bell ends according to this Design Criteria and AE Design requirements.

d. AE reserves the right to inspect the quality of materials as well as the

installation of any materials and equipment by the Developer/Builder at any

point during the construction phase of the project.

e. The Developer/Builder and/or Property Owner shall furnish, install, own, and

maintain electrical facilities beyond the point of service (which will include the

Customer-provided, owned, and maintained meter pedestal and service

lateral). AE will furnish, install, own, and maintain the meter.

f. Conductors and equipment needed to provide electrical service to residential

facilities located on AE's side of the point of service (the meter pedestal) shall

be furnished, installed, owned, and maintained by AE, with the exception of

the Customer-installed electrical infrastructure civil work, which shall be

furnished and installed by the Customer.

g. AE may provide service to residential subdivisions under the conditions of the

July 1, 1997 Developer/Builder policy for Residential Subdivisions if the

developer/builder agrees to the conditions of the 1997 policy and pays AE the

total cost difference as determined by AE Design and specified in the

Agreement for Electric Service letter.

Service to Mobile Home, Modular Home, and Manufactured Home Parks

The Customer shall furnish and install the necessary civil work (conduit, transformer

pads, service boxes, pull-boxes, and other such structures) required for AE

underground facilities and comply with the requirements and conditions of 1.5.3.4.C.6

to satisfy AE infrastructure and special Customer requirements as determined by AE

Design.

The Customer shall furnish, install, own, and maintain the meter pedestal and pedestal

pad as specified in the Design Criteria or approved by AE Design and the AE Distribution

Metering Operation business unit. The Customer shall install all service conduits and the

meter pedestal pads as specified by AE Design.

AE shall furnish, install, own, and maintain the necessary primary cable, transformers,

and secondary conductors from the service box, pull-box, or transformer to the point

of service. The point of service shall be the line side (top) of the self-contained meter

socket, the appropriate termination point of a pre-wired meter pedestal, or as

designated by AE Design.

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Service to Multiple-Metered Residential Buildings (Overhead and Underground)

All multiple-metered residential buildings (see 1.5.3.7) shall have all meters grouped in

a common location on the exterior finished surface of the building or structure. Should

the Customer request the installation of grouped meters with-in the building,

Customer shall comply with the requirements of Section 1.9.3.1 G. Each meter service

disconnect (or meter base) shall be permanently marked with the address of each

respective occupancy or unit. Each dwelling or leased space shall be individually

metered. In addition, the electrical service for a multiple-meter residential building

shall comply with the following requirements unless written approval is obtained from

AE Design.

The Customer shall furnish, install, own, and maintain equipment on the load side of

(after) the point of service, including, but not limited to, service equipment, conduits,

conductors, service distribution enclosures, junction boxes, wireways, multiple-meter

socket assemblies, meter pedestals, and such

For multiple weatherhead overhead installations, each weatherhead shall have a neutral

conductor. The neutral conductor must have the full current-carrying capacity of the

largest energized conductor.

Underground. The Customer shall install the required number and size of service

lateral conduits from the AE transformer or pull-box to the service distribution

enclosure as determined by AE Design. All spare conduits shall be brought to the

building and stubbed up for future use.

When the service distribution enclosure is the point of service (such as single-phase

underground service to apartments), AE will install and terminate the AE underground

service lateral conductors. Generally, the Customer is responsible for all Customer

wiring terminations in the service distribution enclosure.

When the AE transformer or pull-box service is the point of service (such as three-

phase underground service to apartments), the Customer will install, terminate, own,

and maintain the underground service lateral conductors. The Customer is responsible

for all Customer wiring on the load side of the point of service.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: For safety reasons, the Customer should contact AE to

have the electric power de-energized before working inside any AE-pad-mounted

transformer secondary compartment, pull-box, or service distribution enclosure. The

Customer is responsible for forewarning other tenants being served from this enclosure

and/or transformer when de-energizing will occur.

The Customer shall install wireways, metering equipment, service distribution

enclosures, terminal blocks, lugs, and any other equipment to complete service

installation as required.

1. Underground. Adherence to AE Design requirements (such as transformer pads,

primary and secondary conduit, primary and secondary risers, service boxes, and

pull-boxes) is mandatory.

2. Overhead. One or multiple one-point racks and weatherheads as required.

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House Meter. The Customer may install one self-contained meter socket per building

for security lighting, fire safety, sprinkler system, and such. The service conductors for

this service may be served from either the service distribution enclosure, pull-box, or

transformer (optional 2-inch conduit). The location of the house meter socket shall be

within sight (visible and not more than 50 feet) from the service distribution enclosure.

Customer-installed Civil Work. See Sections 1.5.3.4.A.5 and 1.5.3.8.

Service to Apartments, townhouses, and condominiums

These types of residential dwelling projects require that the individual residential

dwellings each be individually metered (see Section 1.5.3.6). The Customer shall

furnish, and install the necessary conduit, transformer pads, service boxes, and pull-

boxes as determined by AE Design. AE shall furnish, install, own, and maintain the

necessary primary cable and transformers.

For secondary voltage single-phase service, the service lateral conductors shall be

installed by AE to the designated point of service (maximum 75 feet). The point of

service for single-phase service shall be the service distribution enclosure, or as

designated by AE Design. Secondary/service conduit runs of more than 75 feet shall

also include an AE approved pull-string.

When the Customer is required to (or chooses to) install, own, and maintain the service

conduit and the service lateral conductors, the service conduit installed ahead of the AE

meter(s) must not be installed under or through a building or structure, including, but

not limited to porches, stairways, decks, carports, garages. Should future ordinances or

legislation require the AE meter to be the point of service, the Customer assumes total

responsibility for establishing a master-meter/submeter system or relocating the

service conduit and service lateral conductors to where they are AE-accessible.

Multi-Meter Banks and Modular Meter Banks (Underground):

1. The customer shall install the secondary wires from the transformer to the main

disconnects and terminate the source side of the disconnects.

2. The main disconnects shall be inspected by the COA DSD Building Inspections

division.

3. Austin Energy shall terminate all secondary wires in the transformer and energize

disconnects.

4. Austin Energy shall energize complete meter banks as requested.

a. For meter banks located in the Network Area, all the secondary meter banks

must be energized simultaneously when the secondary is being energized.

For combination commercial/residential buildings, see Section 1.5.2.10.

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Electric Service Inspections - Residential

All Customer-installed underground civil work for AE facilities and all service lateral

conduits installed ahead of the AE meter (see Section 1.5.3.4.A.5) shall be inspected by

AE civil inspection personnel (Spot & Conduit for Section 1.4.2.3 services or AE work

management for Section 1.4.2.4 services. For exceptions, see 1.5.3.4.B.) The

inspection of any Customer-installed underground civil work must be completed before

the Customer encases the conduit or 90-degree bends or backfills the excavation.

AE shall inspect all electric service installations or changes on the exterior finished

surface of a building or structure served by AE, or its designee, up to and including the

point of service both during construction and upon completion to ensure compliance

with the NESC and this Austin Energy Design Criteria.

AE cannot render electric service until the electric service inspection has been made and

approved, and if required, AE has received notice of written approval from COA DSD

Building Inspections division (and other authorized entity) for the remainder of the

Customer’s electrical installation on the exterior and interior of the building or

structure.

Only AE can make the permanent connections of the Customer's wiring to that of AE's

facilities unless registered in CDP. AE shall perform all disconnects of service, all meter

removals, and all breaking of AE seals, except in cases specifically authorized by AE, or

its designee. AE, or its designee, will inspect the following prior to connection of

metering equipment:

1. Meter Socket(s) – COA DSD Building Inspections division (EIS)

2. Service Distribution Enclosure – EIS.

3. CT Meter Services – AE Distribution Metering Operations business unit.

4. Old service check (no meter at location) – Start with COA Development Services

Department.

5. Turn on the meter (meter existing) – AE at time service is turned on.

6. Read and change meter – AE at the time of reading and change.

E. Where underground work includes conduit for interconnection of a solar system, AE Solar

Inspections must also inspect. (See Distributed Generation Interconnection section)

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STREET LIGHTING

Section 1.6.0 provides specific requirements and information for streetlight and outdoor lighting service in the

AE service area and for those areas within COA but not within the AE service area.

General Information

The following information is intended to describe and distinguish the standard street lighting and outdoor

lighting programs offered by AE. Contact the AE Design business unit for specific details, requirements, and

costs.

Streetlights in Existing Residential Areas within Austin’s City Limits

Within the city limits of Austin, AE installs streetlights upon request by residential owners. When the

affected property owners, which includes the nearest four neighbors, approve the streetlight location(s) and

grant the necessary easements (if any) at no cost to AE, AE will proceed with installation of the

streetlight(s). The streetlight(s) must meet recommended light levels and spacing as described in the

Austin Energy technical specifications and in accordance with the Illuminating Engineering Society of North

America (IESNA) standards.

In addition, streetlights will be installed upon request by Police, Fire, EMS, or Public Works departments of

COA, or as deemed necessary to address public safety concerns. These installations typically occur at street

intersections and curves.

COA will be responsible for the installation, maintenance, and energy charge associated with streetlights

installed in the city limits within AE’s service area.

Streetlights in Newly Annexed Residential Areas

In newly annexed areas of COA, AE will install streetlights upon request of individual property owners or

neighborhood associations. Neighborhood associations shall provide AE with the boundaries of the

neighborhood and the names and addresses of the property owners requesting streetlights. AE personnel

will provide a streetlight installation plan that shows the location of the streetlights pursuant to the lighting

and spacing standards as described in the AE technical specifications and in accordance with the

Illuminating Engineering Society of North American (IENA) standards. When the affected property owners

approve the streetlight location(s) and grant the necessary easements (if any), AE will proceed with

installation of the streetlight(s).

New subdivisions in newly annexed residential areas (or areas scheduled for annexation) will pay the

standard AE fee per lot as an aid to construction. The fees will be reviewed on an annual basis and are

subject to change. (See Fee Schedule in Section 1.17.0 Glossary for the location of the current fee

schedule.)

In newly annexed areas, AE will install streetlights upon request by Police, Fire, EMS, or Public Works

departments of COA, or as deemed necessary to address public safety concerns. These installations

typically occur at intersections and dangerous curves.

COA will be responsible for the installation, maintenance, and energy charge associated with street lighting

installed in the city limits within AE’s service area. If the annexed residential area is in another electric

utility’s service territory, as authorized by the Public Utility Commission of Texas, AE will coordinate

installation, maintenance and energy charges with the electric service provider for that area.

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Streetlights in New Residential Subdivisions IN Austin’s City Limits Inside

and Outside Austin Energy’s Service Area

If the new residential area is in another electric utility’s service territory, as authorized by the Public Utility

Commission of Texas, AE will coordinate installation, maintenance and energy charges with the electric

service provider for that area.

AE will develop a complete lighting installation plan for new subdivisions with installation pursuant to

design. The developer shall be responsible for the installation of the conduit, AE-approved pull string, pull-

boxes, and AE standard streetlight foundations. AE will install the standard poles and fixtures. If the

developer prefers streetlight poles other than what is normally installed, the developer and AE will

collaborate on the type of pole. The developer is responsible for the difference in cost.

Streetlights in Residential Subdivisions OUTSIDE Austin’s City Limits Inside

Austin Energy’s Service Area

In areas outside the city limits but inside AE’s service area, upon request, AE will install lights in accordance

with the AE Non-Metered Outdoor Lighting tariffs. The requesting party is responsible for the total costs

associated with the installation and for monthly energy charges in accordance with the AE Nightwatchman

program terms and conditions.

If the request is for a new subdivision, AE will develop a complete lighting plan and coordinate with the

developer as to the type of lighting to be installed. The developer is responsible for the purchase and

installation of the conduit, AE-approved pull string, pull-boxes, and AE standard streetlight foundations. AE

will install the standard poles and fixtures. If the developer prefers streetlight poles other than what is

normally installed, the developer and AE will collaborate on the type of pole. This additional cost will also be

borne by the developer.

Streetlights in Commercial Areas IN Austin’s City Limits Inside and Outside

Austin Energy’s Service Area

Streetlights in commercial areas within the city limits shall be provided by the developer and in accordance

with the illumination design provided by AE designers. The fees for commercial streetlighting shall include

labor, materials, vehicles, equipment and associated costs of the project. The owner of the commercial

development shall pay the entire cost of the installation.

If the new commercial area is in another electric utility’s service territory, as authorized by the Public Utility

Commission of Texas, AE will coordinate installation, maintenance and energy charges with the electric

service provider for that area.

AE will develop a complete lighting installation plan for new commercial development with installation

pursuant to design. The developer shall be responsible for the installation of the conduit, AE-approved pull

string, pull-boxes, and AE standard streetlighting foundations. AE will install the standard poles and

fixtures. If the developer prefers streetlight poles other than what is normally installed, the developer and

AE will collaborate on the type of poles. This additional cost will also be borne by the developer.

Where public streets are installed ahead of the Austin Energy electrical design, site development owners are

responsible for paying to install streetlights along these public streets that are within their development.

Streetlight costs for these public streets will be included in the design for power to the site.

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Streetlights in Commercial Areas OUTSIDE Austin’s City Limits Inside Austin

Energy’s Service Area

Streetlights in commercial areas outside the city limits shall be provided by the developer and in accordance

with the illumination design provided by AE designers. The fees for commercial streetlighting shall include

labor, materials, vehicles, equipment and associated costs. The owner of the commercial development shall

pay the entire cost of the installation and monthly energy charges in accordance with the Nightwatchman

program terms and conditions.

AE will develop a complete lighting installation plan for new commercial developments and will coordinate

with the developer as to the type of lighting to be installed. The developer shall be responsible for the

installation of the conduit, AE-approved pull string, pull-boxes, and AE standard streetlight foundations. AE

will install the standard poles and fixtures. If the developer prefers streetlight poles other than what is

normally installed the developer and AE will collaborate on the type of pole. This additional cost will also be

borne by the developer.

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TEMPORARY DISTRIBUTION POWER

Section 1.7.0 provides specific requirements and information for temporary overhead and underground

Commercial (1.5.2) and Residential (1.5.3) service. For temporary service in the Network Area (1.5.1),

contact AE Network Design. (See section 1.18.0 Appendix and Exhibits for examples of various AE metering

and temporary service requirements.)

Temporary Service – General Conditions and Requirements

Temporary Power Availability

For temporary power, (single-phase or three-phase), AE will provide temporary service where

facilities are available or extend AE facilities where AE Design finds is reasonable and practical. Any

electric power provided before the Customer satisfies all of the conditions and/or inspections for

permanent service shall be considered temporary power and subject to all the costs for temporary

power plus any other requirements or conditions deemed appropriate by AE Design.

Costs for Temporary Power

The Customer shall be required to pay for the total labor for the installation and removal of all

temporary facilities, plus any other costs associated with providing temporary power, the total cost of

any non-reusable materials, and any COA fees prior to the installation of temporary power. Contact

AE Design. (For temporary power within the Network Area, contact AE Network Design.)

Seasonal Service

Temporary service for seasonal business types (such as holiday tree lots or firework stands) shall be

removed at the Customer’s request or after 90 days at AE’s discretion unless the Customer requests a

continuance of temporary service from AE Dispatch. The Customer pays the cost indicated in 1.7.1.2

above.

Temporary Power Designations

All construction power or temporary power meter loops are designated as either a HBL or a TPL meter

loop. All meter loops require a minimum meter can size of 200 amps.

Austin Energy provides temporary construction power to job sites for the duration of 24 months for the

sole purpose of construction. If your project exceeds the 24 month period it is the contractor’s

responsibility is to notify Austin Energy (512) 494-9400 of the need to continue temporary service for

an extended amount of time. This should be determined by the contractor. All temporary construction

power is disconnected when the permanent meter is installed on the job site. Failure to notify Austin

Energy prior to the 24th month of temporary power extension needs may result in a disconnect of the

construction power.

HBL (Home Builder Loop). HBL loops are construction service single-phase meter

loops to be used exclusively for the construction, addition, or remodeling of a single or

duplex family residence. Temporary meter loops to be used as HBL loops will continue

to require a COA permit and must be inspected by the COA DSD Building Inspections

division before their use.

TPL (Temporary Power Loop). TPL loops are temporary service single-phase or

three- phase meter loops to be used for such things as the construction of triplex and

quadruplex family residences and commercial/multifamily building projects, service to

temporary offices, buildings, or signs, service to seasonal lots or food stands, and

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service to other similar types of temporary applications. This TPL loop, whether new or

used, requires a new COA permit and a new COA DSD Building Inspections division

inspection before AE will connect to the temporary service. All TPL's require a separate

address identifier. Contact Address Management for address identifier prior to

submitting the ESPA for review.

For permits (or information) on HBL and TPL permits, please call the Development

Service Department or visit Austin Build+ Connect (AB+C) web page. An application for

temporary service must also be made to AE for either type of temporary loop.

Network. For temporary power in the Network Area, contact Network Design.

Temporary power can be provided at 216 volts up to a maximum of 800 amps only if a

Network power source is readily available.

Interim Service

Interim Service is required for speculative buildings and long-term temporary service.

Where the permanently connected load information and/or the permanent service voltage is not

known for various types of speculative buildings (or where service is requested for various types of

long-term temporary power that exceed the time limitations of temporary service), the

Builder/Customer must take interim service. This requires that service is provided under the conditions

of permanent service and that the Customer pay the costs indicated in 1.7.1.2 above for temporary

service.

For interim service, AE provides only the facilities and electrical demand capacity required for the

interim service for speculative buildings (or for long-term temporary) as determined by AE Design

from the Customer’s actual interim connected electrical load information. If the builder/developer

requests that AE install permanent facilities to serve a speculative building at a load level presumed by

the builder/developer before the permanent Customer is known and the permanent electrical demand

load can be determined by AE Design, the builder/developer will be charged the cost indicated in

1.7.1.2 above plus the excess facilities cost for the additional facilities and transformer capacity.

Should the builder/developer subsequently request additional changes in service capacity or service

voltage after the requirements of a permanent Customer are known, the builder, developer, or

Customer shall pay all the costs plus any fees associated with these changes.

Temporary Overhead Service

A. Meter loops shall be wired with a minimum of #8 AWG copper or equivalent unless City

code specifies larger conductor due to load requirements.

B. Meter loops shall be installed on a treated pole that is buried in the ground a minimum of 3

feet and adequately braced to support 400 lbs of service conductor tension (see –section

1.18.0 Appendix and Exhibits).

C. Meter loops shall have the permanent address posted at the site to clearly identify the

service temporary location and have this address clearly marked on the meter loop, meter

pole, and/or meter pole braces.

D. Meter loops shall be installed/located according to these restrictions and clearances when

connected to AE overhead facilities:

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10-foot

minimum

measured horizontally, from AE's facilities (poles and overhead lines)

regardless of service size

75-foot

maximum

measured horizontally, from AE's facilities (pole serving Customer's

facilities) for services rated 225 amps or less

All other maximum service lengths shall be specified by AE Design.

Customer is responsible for tree trimming activities to allow the safe installation

of new

electrical facilities by AE. Only AE personnel will trim trees around existing AE

facilities.

See Section 1.10.0 for other overhead service clearance requirements.

Temporary Underground Service

A. Meter loops shall be wired with a minimum of #8 AWG copper or equivalent unless City

code or other governing agency specifies larger conductor due to load requirements.

B. When connected to underground facilities, the temporary loop shall be installed within 1 foot

of an underground service box and have the service address clearly marked on the meter

loop, meter pole, and/or meter pole braces.

C. If the service is to be taken directly from a pad-mount transformer, the temporary meter

loop shall be installed within 1 foot of the right-front side of the transformer (pad-lockable

side). Direct burial cable shall be furnished and installed in the flexible non-metallic conduit

by the Customer. The conduit shall terminate a minimum of 3 inches below grade. The

Customer shall connect conductors to the line side (top) of meter base and shall leave a

minimum 4-foot tail of cable from the end of the conduit for AE to connect. (See Appendix

C - Exhibits, or if in Network Area, call AE Network Design.)

D. Temporary Underground Power

From Single-Phase Pad-Mounted Transformers: The Customer shall provide a 2-inch

schedule 80 PVC stub-out, 24 inches deep (to top of the conduit), on the secondary side of

all transformer pads for temporary construction power. The Customer shall furnish and

install the 2-inch schedule 80 PVC conduit from the stub-out to the Customer's temporary

meter loop.

From Three-Phase Pad-Mounted Transformers: The Customer shall use one of the 4-

inch schedule 80 PVC permanent service conduit stub-outs on the secondary side of all

transformer pads for temporary construction power.

The Customer shall find and expose the 2-inch or 4-inch conduit stub-out at the

transformer pad and install the temporary loop within 12 inches of transformer pad. The

Customer shall furnish and install the conductors suitable for direct burial from the line side

of the Customer's meter base to the transformer pad and leave a minimum 4-foot tail at

the exposed stub-out. AE will push the wire up into the transformer secondary

compartment and make the connection.

E. For more information, refer to Portable Meter Loop for Temporary in –1.18.0 Appendix and

Exhibits and/or contact AE Design.

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CUSTOMER ELECTRIC DISTRIBUTION EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS

Section 1.8.0 discusses the requirements of the Customer’s wiring and the Customer’s electric equipment that

actually utilizes the electric service provided by AE.

Customer’s Wiring, Service, and Electric Equipment Installation

New Installations

Customer wiring and electric service shall be inspected by the COA DSD Building Inspections division

(and any other authorized inspection entity if located outside of the COA) and (if required by this

Design Criteria) inspected by AE or its designee before AE is permitted to connect the service. (See

Sections 1.3.0 Characteristics/Basic Requirements of Electric Service and 1.4.0 Requesting/Obtaining

Electric Service.)

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: In view of the possibility of future additions of electrical equipment, spare

capacity for future use should be provided whenever new wiring installations are made. In

determining the number and size of service conductors, the estimated ultimate load, as well as the

load at the time the wiring installation is made, should be considered. Adequate service facilities

should be installed for future additions of lighting, appliances, or motor equipment to avoid expensive

modifications later.

Modifications to Existing Facilities

To ensure adequate and continuous service, AE Design should be notified before additions or

alterations are made to the Customer's electrical installation. Additional Customer wiring shall conform

to the NESC and NEC.

Where building alterations or additions make changes necessary in AE's facilities, the Customer’s

electric service shall be completed and inspected by the COA DSD Building Inspections division, by any

other authorized inspection entity if located outside of the COA, and (as required by this Design

Criteria) inspected by AE, or its designee, before AE is permitted to reconnect the service. In addition,

any change of building usage shall be inspected by the authorized inspection entity, if required, before

connection of electrical metering equipment.

Customer's Electric Equipment Load

General

The Customer’s electric equipment consists of all equipment requiring electric service for its operation.

It is in the Customer's interest that all such equipment is of appropriate design, be installed and

maintained in accordance with standard practice, and be adequate for the use intended. All apparatus

should be selected and used to obtain the highest overall efficiency and lowest overall cost for electric

service.

The Customer should consult with AE Design as to the type of equipment to be connected and the

capacity, voltage, and a number of phases available at the location where this equipment is to be

operated. The Customer must pay any special service requirements necessitated by the Customer’s

equipment and/or any special Customer requests that constitute excess facilities/extra costs (as

determined by AE Design). The Customer must pay these costs before any other excess facilities/extra

cost work is started.

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Motors

A. General. The Customer shall exercise extreme care in the proper selection of motors

in order that successful operation and good service will result. Before ordering or

installing any polyphase motors (50 hp or larger) or large single-phase motors (15 hp

or larger), the Customer shall consult AE Design to determine the character and

adequacy of the available service.

After consulting with AE Design, the Customer should ask the manufacturer for advice

in the selection and application of motorized equipment and protective devices, so as

to secure satisfactory operation at a minimum cost to the Customer, both for the initial

installation and for future maintenance.

Single-phase motors to be served with 120/240V supply lines should be connected for

240V whenever practical to minimize voltage drop in the Customer's wiring system and

the supply system. All motors shall have a nameplate and voltage rating compatible

with the nominal supply voltage. They shall also be designated to operate successfully

at rated load with variation in the supply voltage of not more than 10 percent above or

below the nameplate voltage rating in accordance with National Electrical Manufacturers

Association (NEMA) Specifications.

B. Motor Starting Current and Other Special Equipment Requirements. When

planning service, the Customer should consider the current required to start a motor

that is appreciably greater than that required for operation at full load after normal

speed is reached. While this increase in current is short, it is often enough to cause

serious fluctuations in voltage to the Customer using the motor and to other

Customers as well. These fluctuations cause objectionable light flickering and

disturbances to other types of equipment. Fluctuations that occur only once or twice a

day may not be objectionable. However frequently recurring fluctuations of the same

magnitude would not be acceptable.

Customers are required to inform Austin Energy about any major loads that might

create a voltage sag or flicker during operation. Generally, loads over 50kW/HP are

considered to fall in this category. The Customer might be required to take corrective

actions to alleviate the service deterioration that may result from the operation of such

loads.

If the Customer has primary service of 12.47kV and motor load(s) exceeding 50HP, the

following studies shall be performed and IEEE standards satisfied:

1. Short Circuit and Coordination Study. A Short Circuit and Coordination Study shall

be performed by the Customer to determine how to set protective devices in order

to minimize the extent of an outage. The choice of the protective devices shall be

determined by the requirement that a fault is interrupted within the effected

circuit, thereby, minimizing power disruption. Customer shall perform this study

starting from their smallest circuit and working their way back to the main

breaker. The main breaker shall fully coordinate with AE's feeder/circuit and

substation equipment. AE engineering and technical staff will provide the relay

settings for those feeders/circuits as applicable (contact AE Design).

A Short Circuit and Coordination Study is one of the most important tasks that a

Customer can perform that ensures the safety and protection of their personnel

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and electrical equipment. When an electrical fault or overload causes currents in

excess of the interrupting rating of the protective device(s), the consequences can

be devastating including injury, damaged electrical equipment, and expensive

facility downtime.

The IEEE Electrical Power Distribution for Industrial Plants (Red Book) describes

the purpose of Electrical Coordination Studies.

2. Motor Start Study. Large electrical motors require a significant amount of current

during start-up. (It is not unusual for the start-up current to be six times normal

load current). During this startup condition, the voltage may sag to levels that

create problems for other equipment operating, or a visual flicker. If this voltage

sag is significant (over 3% of the normal voltage at the point of service), the

Customer must take corrective action to limit the startup current to minimize the

impact on the operation of other equipment and other utility Customers.

3. IEEE standard 519-1992 or latest version. The Customer shall perform their

calculations based on IEEE standard 519-1992 as the 1st motor to the Nth motor

is installed. These calculations shall be based on the initial and ultimate full load,

soft starting on initial and ultimate loads, and maximum permissible voltage

fluctuation for motors/pumps (maximum of two per hour). The voltage sag must

be less than 3% on primary voltage side of utility (12.47kV).

The Customer shall limit the maximum individual frequency voltage harmonics to

3% of the fundamental component and the voltage THD to 5%.

C. Polyphase/Single-Phase Motors. Three-phase service is not readily available in all

areas. Before any application of three-phase equipment is made, it is imperative that

AE Design is consulted to verify service availability. There is no specific rule on

allowable starting currents of polyphase or single-phase motors. Poly-phase motors of

50 horsepower and larger and single-phase motors of 15 horsepower and larger may

require installation with reduced-voltage starters.

Starting motors of these 50/15 horsepower and larger motors across the line shall

require AE written approval (contact AE Design). The Customer shall be prepared to

provide AE Design with all nameplate information from the motor(s) to be installed and

all other information required in 1.8.2.2.B in order to determine starting requirements.

If this information is unavailable, it shall automatically be assumed that the motor

requires reduced-voltage starting.

Protective Devices. All motors shall be equipped with effective protection, installed by

the Customer, for the motors, the machines they drive, and the wiring. AE strongly

recommends that the Customer’s protective devices conform to the requirements of the

latest version of the National Electrical Code (NEC).

For example: The NEC requires that when installing three-phase motors, the Customer

should use devices to prevent single-phasing (the loss of one phase either in the

Customer’s facilities or AE supply lines). Regardless of the precautions taken by AE and

the Customer, this single-phasing may occur; therefore, the Customer should install

equipment to protect the Customer’s motor(s). AE is not liable for equipment damage

due to single-phasing.

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Welders, Furnaces, and Such

Electric welders, furnaces and similar short duration high-energy use equipment have inherent

operating characteristics that often cause serious fluctuations in the service voltage. The fluctuations

affect not only the service of the Customer using the equipment but also the service of other

Customers. In some cases, it may be found that the proposed load cannot be served satisfactorily at

the specific location unless both AE and the Customer provide special facilities and control equipment.

AE, therefore, might be unable to serve the proposed load unless the Customer agrees to provide, at

the Customer’s expense, the facilities, and suitable control equipment as specified by AE Design.

Special Apparatus

Certain types of equipment not covered in this section, such as x-ray machines, radio transmitters,

high-frequency apparatus, and other installations, may require special facilities or types of service.

Call AE Design before equipment is purchased or installations are made. When a Customer's

equipment is not compatible with AE standard services, the Customer shall provide, install, and

maintain any necessary devices on the load side of the meter to properly operate and protect this

equipment.

Radio Antennae

Antennae or aerials for radio or television sets cannot be erected over or under AE supply lines, nor

can they be attached to or near AE poles or other equipment. To do so may lead to serious injury to

persons and damage to property and may also prevent satisfactory operation of the electronic

equipment.

Cell Towers

AE will provide only one service to a cell tower. Customer must install an 800-amp single-phase

120/240-volt service entrance (minimum) that will allow for multiple grouped meters that will provide

the points of service for multiple Customers (4 minimum) unless the Customer requests a waiver of

this requirement in writing and receives a waiver from AE Design in writing (see section 1.18.0

Appendix and Exhibits).

Computer Equipment

AE does not supply the special power requirements required by some Customer loads such as

computers and specialized electronic equipment. The Customer shall provide and maintain necessary

equipment on the load side (after) of the metering equipment, which ensures the voltage stability and

continuity that the Customer requires for this type of equipment [such as UPS System

(Uninterruptible Power Supplies)].

Customer Power Generation Interface with AE

Many variations in AE electrical circuits and a multitude of electrical generator types and capacities

(including renewable sources) exist for Customer applications. Therefore, each request for interconnection

of Customer-owned power generation/production facilities with the AE system must be individually

reviewed and approved by AE. This is to ensure that suitable protective devices will be installed and

operating procedures for joint use will be followed.

For more information, contact AE Design and see Section 1.12.0 Austin Energy’s Requirements for

Distributed Generation Interconnection (for facilities under 50 kW) or request a copy of the

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

Interconnection Guidelines for Customer Power Production Interface with AE.

Customer’s Main Disconnect

The Customer’s main disconnect switch(es) shall meet all COA Electrical Code requirements and be located

on the load side (behind) and next to the AE meter(s) on the outside of the building at ground level.

A. Where the Customer is the only Customer served from a transformer, the meter, metering

equipment and disconnect shall be grouped together and may be located so that they are

accessible from an exterior door located at ground level from outside of the Customer’s

building. The door must be clearly visible from the transformer location and accessible 24/7

by means of a customer-provided programmable door handle lock (mechanical or digital)

installed into the exterior door. The customer’s main disconnect switch(es) shall be within

25ft of the exterior door. Also, the Customer shall post a permanent sign on the door with

2-inch letters identifying it as the Electric meter room. See section 1.9.3.2 for meter room

requirements.

B. The meter(s) and disconnect(s) shall be grouped together in a common location. When

metered at a transformer, the disconnect shall be grouped with the meter beside the AE

transformer or outside the building within line of sight of the AE transformer. (See Section

1.9.3.2 for Meter Room requirements.) If metered at the transformer, the disconnect can be

located next to the AE transformer but shall meet all transformer pad clearances. See section

1.10.4.

Note: Emergency Power Off (EPO) devices are accepted by Austin Energy as a means of

disconnect and must be installed outside and within line of sight of the AE transformer and

labeled as “Austin Energy Disconnect”. The label must contain the total amperage of the

main disconnect or the total amperage of the combined main disconnects. The label must

be an engraved plaque and the print shall be 2 inches in height (minimum). The plaque is

to be of contrasting colors (white lettering on either a red or black background) and

fastened with machine screws or rivets. EPO device shall be tested when the service is

energized for the first time, and then annually after initial energization. Please contact

AEDistributionMetering@austinenergy.com

C. For maximum number of disconnects and service disconnects, see NEC 230.71

D. For emergency disconnects, see NEC section 230.85

E. Metering equipment is sized per the manufacturers maximum nameplate rating of the

disconnect, or total number of disconnects, not the fuse size, wire rating or trip/relay

setting.

NOTE: Customer upgrades to existing service entrance facilities on the Customer’s

side of the point of service (such as replacing the main disconnect) shall require

that the entire service entrance is brought up to current AE and COA code

requirements.

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

Distribution Service Enclosure (Tap Box, Junction Box) & Wireway

Specification

SERVICE DISTRIBUTION ENCLOSURE (SDE, TAP, ENCLOSURE) AND WIREWAY SPECIFICATIONS

• The SDE/tap enclosure and wireway sizes in this section are for minimum requirements. A larger size tap box or wireway

may be required depending on circumstances at project location and as determined by the NEC.

• Service Distribution Enclosures (SDE’s), or buss type tap boxes which are installed ahead of the metering equipment or

ahead of the service disconnect(s) will be sized by the number and size of conduits installed from the transformer, service

box, pull-box, etc. or point of service to the SDE/tap box.

• Underground service lateral risers or overhead service risers directly to wire ways or gutters are NOT permitted.

• Minimum SDE/Tap enclosure requirements are listed below:

• NEMA 3R Hoffman type or equivalent with back plate

• The front of the enclosure shall be equipped with the following:

• Overlapping double-doors with 3-point latching system

• Lift-off hinges

• Door stop provisions

• Padlock provision in handle for locking purposes

• Wireways/gutters will be sized based on the size of SDE or tap enclosure .

• Conductor/wire connections are NOT permitted in the wireways.

• SDE or tap enclosures and wireways shall be furnished, installed, owned, and maintained by the Customer.

• For underground installation, SDE tap enclosures shall be installed a minimum of 12 inches and a maximum of 44 inches,

measured to the bottom of tap box, above final grade or other accessible surface or working platform.

• For 3 or more metered services, a wireway is required on one or both sides, depending on the number of services.

• The wireway length is per wireway, not the total length of both wireways.

Number and Size

of Conduits to SDE,

Tap Enclosure From

Point of Service

Minimum

Tap Box Size

or Equivalent

Size (inches)

Residential, Apartments,

Condominiums

Minimum Wireway Size or

Equivalent Size (inches)

Commercial

Minimum

Wireway Size or

Equivalent Size (inches)

1–2”

18x18x8

6x6x48

12x12x48

2–2”

18x18x8

8x8x48

12x12x48

1–3”

24x24x10

8x8x48

12x12x48

2–3”

24x24x10

8x8x72

12x12x72

1–4”

24x24x10

8x8x96

12x12x96

2–4”

30x30x12

8x8x96

12x12x96

3–4”

30x30x12

10x10x96

12x12x96

4–4”

42x42x14

12x12x96

5 - 10 –4”

48x48x14

12x12x96

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

Notes:

• Terminal blocks shall be installed only in the SDE or tap enclosures which is installed ahead of the metering equipment or

ahead of the service disconnect(s). Terminal blocks shall meet all applicable ANSI/EIA Standards for electric connectors.

• Terminal blocks shall be installed as per the approved labeling and/or listing and installed with regard to future installations.

If a service is to be repaired in existing wireways or existing SDE’s or tap enclosures originally installed with split bolt

connectors, the split-bolt connectors shall be replaced with terminal blocks.

• Terminal blocks shall be furnished, installed, owned, and maintained by the Customer.

• For commercial installations, SDE or tap enclosure terminal blocks shall be sized to accommodate the Customer's service

conductors and the Customer shall terminate the service conductors in the terminal blocks. For installations where the

terminations are in the point of service (i.e., pull box), the terminal blocks shall be installed in the pull box. The terminal

blocks shall be sized to accommodate the AE’s conductors, as determined by AE Design, and AE shall terminate any AE

conductors.

• Terminal blocks shall provide sufficient size lugs for the service conductors and generally based on the number of conduits to

the SDE or tap enclosure from the AE transformer, etc. (i.e., four 4-inch conduits to the SDE or tap enclosure from the

transformer requires minimum of four lugs for each phase conductors and four lugs for the neutral conductors with additional

lugs for ground/bond conductors). The Customer shall provide sufficient size and number of terminal blocks to serve all meter

sockets, transockets, etc. from the SDE or tap enclosure. The terminal blocks shall provide a minimum of six termination

points per phase (e.g., a maximum of six services per wireway) with a minimum of #4 lugs to meet the existing and future

(multiple-meter/shell building) service requirements of the building.

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

METERING

See section 1.18.0 Exhibits and Appendix for examples of AE metering equipment and requirements.

Meters, Metering Equipment, and Metering Services

General

A. Customer shall furnish, install, own, and maintain metering equipment of the proper

type and capacity for measurement of Customer's electrical power consumption. Where

more than a watt-hour meter is necessary to measure electrical power consumption,

the Customer shall furnish the appropriate metering equipment.

• All services served by Austin Energy are required to have an ESPA and a City of

Austin Electrical Permit for new, repair, re-builds, or upgrades. (see section 1.4.4

or 1.4.5)

• All metering equipment is sized per the manufacturers maximum nameplate rating

of the disconnect, or total number of disconnects, not the fuse size, wire rating or

trip/relay setting.

• All services above 350 amps single phase or 225 amps three phase, are required

to be instrument rated.

• Current transformer enclosures, gutters, and tap boxes shall be used for metering

only. No other wiring metered or unmetered will be permitted in the CT service

enclosures, gutters or tap boxes.

• Services with a 400 amp or 600 amp main disconnect or total number disconnects

or breakers, are required to be an AE approved transocket unless the service is to

be metered at the transformer.

• ALL instrument rated (CT) services shall have a load side disconnect regardless of

voltage.

Exception: Fire Pumps and Solar

• All Fire Pumps, regardless of amperage, are required to be instrument rated.

• The Customer shall furnish and install all meter sockets, voltage transformer

packs, CT enclosures, and current transformers (CTs) for permanent and

temporary services.

• The Customer shall furnish, install, own and maintain meter pedestals meter

packs, and (modular metering) enclosures as reviewed and approved by the AE

Advanced Metering Engineering business unit.

aeadvancedmeteringengineering@austinenergy.com

• The responsibility of the Customer is to furnish, install, own and maintain

enclosures, wireways, connectors, conduit and fittings, and other miscellaneous

materials. This equipment shall conform to the installation requirements of the

Austin Energy Design Criteria and NEC.

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

• Prior to purchasing or installing any equipment, the Customer shall contact AE

Distribution Metering Operations for approval of the metering equipment.

(aedistributionmetering@austinenergy.com)

• Austin Energy shall furnish, install, own and maintain the watt-hour meter devices.

B. Instrument Rated (CT) Inspections

• All instrument rated (CT) services conventional, transocket, network vault, or

padmount are required to have a CT inspection.

• The Customer shall allow up to five (5) business days for the inspection of all

instrument-rated metered services, once requested and scheduled through AE

Distribution Metering Operations Dispatch (aedmodispatch@austinenergy.com).

• The Customer shall allow up to five (5) business days for the installation of the

metering equipment by AE after the instrument rated (CT) inspection has been

approved.

Metering Equipment

For approved meter enclosures, CT Enclosures, and CT manufacturers, see the Austin Energy Website

For CT sizing, contact Distribution Metering Operations at

AEDISTRIBUTIONMETERIN[email protected].

A. For permanent and temporary services, the Customer shall furnish, install,

own, and maintain the following equipment including, but not limited to:

1. Self-Contained Type 200-S meter socket (single-phase and three-phase)

2. Type 320-SLR meter socket (120/240v, 120/208v), (3 wire single-phase)

3. Instrument Rated (IR) meter socket enclosure (for instrument-rated services)

4. Current transformers (CTs) (All window, bushing, and bar type)

5. Voltage transformer packs.

6. Potential Transformers

7. Current transformer (CT) enclosure

8. Voltage Transformer (VT) Enclosure

9. AE VT Wiring Harness

10. Transocket

11. Ganged-meter socket assemblies: Modular Metering, Meter Packs

12. Meter pedestal

13. Service distribution enclosure and all included equipment

14. Junction box

15. Wireway(s)

16. Connectors, lugs, and conductor used for grounding of meters or enclosures

17. Conduit and fittings for and between the meter and current transformer enclosure

18. Hubs, when required in-service distribution enclosures, self-contained meter

sockets (temporary services).

19. Terminal blocks (Refer to the table Junction Box and Wireway Specifications in

Section 1.8.5).

B. Austin Energy shall furnish, install, own and maintain the following equipment:

1. Watt-hour meter

2. Metering Cable (For IR installations only).

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

Contact Austin Energy Distribution Metering Operations business unit for Specifications or

written approval of metering equipment and enclosures.

AEDISTRIBUTIONMETERING@AUSTINENERGY.COM

Service Conductors in Self-Contained Meter Sockets

A. Only one conductor (1/0 AWG to 300 kcmil) per terminal shall be allowed in any 200-S

meter socket.

B. Only one conductor (1/0 AWG to 500 kcmil) per terminal shall be allowed in any 320

SLR on the line side. (2) parallel can be allowed on the load side so long as the wire

rating is equal to or less than the line side conductor ampacity rating.

C. The Customer shall make line and load connections in meter sockets, excluding the

connection of AE’s conductors. Jumpers in a meter socket shall NOT be permitted as a

means to provide a Customer with temporary power. At no time shall a Customer's

service be connected without an electric meter.

Service Connections to Meter Sockets

A. Service Conductors

1. Service conductors shall not be extended from one meter socket to supply an

additional meter. Conductors supplying several meters shall be branched in a

service distribution enclosure or junction box furnished, installed, owned, and

maintained by the Customer. Concentric knockouts provided shall be used and shall

enter the meter socket in a 4-inch space at the bottom of the meter socket.

2. The Customer shall make line and load connections but shall not connect the

Customer's service without a meter. For help, contact the AE Service Dispatch

business unit so a convenient time for assistance may be set to minimize service

outage.

B. Socket-Mounted Transfer Switch Device (Customer-Owned)

Austin Energy allows customers to install approved socket-mounted transfer switch

devices within its service territory pursuant to the requirements set forth in City Code

Chapter 15-9 (Utility Service Regulations) Section 15-9-177 (Socket-Mounted Transfer

Switch Devices). Austin Energy’s list of director-approved socket-mounted transfer switch

devices is located here: <link to document>

Setting and Removing of Meters

When the Customer is adding, relocating, upgrading, repairing, or otherwise changing a service, only

authorized AE personnel shall set and remove meters, except for specific cases authorized by AE, or

its designee. Any exceptions shall be obtained at the time the Customer obtains an electric permit.

Any electric meter retired from service shall be returned to the Advanced Metering and Systems

Engineering business unit “Meter Shop” 4122 Todd Ln Austin, Tx 78744.

Meter Tampering and Seals

Tampering with the meter, metering network, instrument transformers, any conductors carrying un-

metered current, or the unauthorized breaking of the Austin Energy seal is prohibited by law.

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

Identification of Customer Meter(s) by Installation Type and Plaque Requirements

A. Identification for a single meter installation – The meter enclosure shall be labeled with the street

address and unique identifier (if applicable)

B. Identification for a multi-meter installation with a SDE and wireway – The SDE shall have the main

address and each meter must be labeled with a unique identifier

C. Identification for a modular meter installation – The main circuit breaker of the disconnect

enclosure shall retain the street address and each meter be labeled with a unique identifier

D. Permanent paint (minimum 2-inch stencil and spray paint)

Note: Paint pen or marker is not acceptable.

E. Label or Plaque requirements

1. Labels shall be permanent, weather-proof, have a minimum text height of 2 inches, and shall

be an acrylic adhesive or be ultra-violet inhibited.

2. Engraved plaques are acceptable, but the text height must be at least 2 inches. The plaque

should be either white lettering on a red background, or white lettering on a black

background, and must be fastened with machine screws or rivets.

3. Meter markings for multifamily dwelling units must match the dwelling unit identification.

4. Markings such as front, rear, down, West, etc. are not acceptable.

5. Identification must be shown on the disconnect or meter socket (markings on the glass cover

are not acceptable).

6. In residential developments, subdivisions, mobile homes, modular homes, and manufactured

home parks, identification shall be done by marking the service disconnect and meter socket

(not glass cover) with the lot number.

Outdated, Damaged, and Obsolete Equipment

All outdated, damaged, and obsolete metering equipment and meter sockets shall be retired, and

electric service upgraded to current code according to one or more of the following criteria as

determined by AE staff:

A. Additional load increases the total load and/or the total load exceeds the ampacity of

the meter socket, breaker panel disconnect, Customer’s service conductors, main

breaker, and/or main lugs.

B. If the integrity of the service has been changed such as modification from the originally

designed system to the service. (i.e. Solar, addition of a main disconnect, generator, or

battery).

C. Service must be final or has been de-energized for non-pay, and no disconnect

presently located either outside the building.

D. Damage to CT's - VT's, Test switches, CT wiring and CT enclosures.

E. Service has been vandalized and is deemed to have obsolete equipment (i.e… Theft,

overhead (CT) racks).

F. Meter blocks are damaged, burned, or missing.

G. Service is converted from 2-wire to 3- or 4-wire service or from 3-wire to 4-wire.

H. Obsolete metering equipment is being used that is no longer available, such as 6-wire

metering.

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

I. Consult AE Distribution Metering Operations business unit to determine if the metering

equipment is obsolete.

Current Transformers (CTs) and Enclosures

A. Instrument Rated Service Types

• Transocket – All in one enclosure, Combination CT and Meter can

• Conventional - Separate CT enclosure and Meter can

• Padmount - CT’s are installed on the bushings inside the AE transformer, the

meter can is mounted to a separate rack per figure 1.11. See Appendix.

B. When a Customer's service size exceeds 350 amps single phase or 225 amps three

phase, the customer shall use an AE approved transocket (for single phase 120/240v

services or three phase - 120/208v services, three phase 120/240v services, or three

phase 277/480v services) up to 600A based on the total maximum rating of the

manufacturer’s nameplate of the main disconnect or disconnects.

C. When the service size exceeds 600 amps, the customer shall contact AE Distribution

Metering Operations business unit so that a representative can determine the capacity

and type of CTs to be used. The following requirements apply to the installation and

use of CTs and enclosures:

1. AE Minimum requirements for CT enclosure types as per listed below.

a. the Enclosure type NEMA 3R Hoffman type or equivalent with CT mounting

bar or back plate that will accommodate either horizontal or vertical

mounting. The front of the enclosure shall be equipped with the following:

o Overlapping double-doors with 3-point latching system

o Lift-off hinges

o Door stop provisions

o Padlock provision in handle for locking purposes.

o Removable with provisions for pad locking. All manufacturer provided

hardware shall be installed.

b. Minimum CT enclosure sizes are listed below in Table 1.9.1.9.B

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

D. All wire coming and leaving a CT service must be consistent in size and type

(Example: 2-500cu on the line side must be 2-500cu on the load side)

E. A Load side disconnect is required for ALL instrument rated (CT) services.

(Exception: Fire Pumps and Solar)

F. CTs shall be mounted securely in a horizontal or vertical position on the mounting bar

provided in the CT enclosure. CTs shall be mounted equal distance apart and centered

on mounting bar with polarity point (dot) toward the line side. Aerial CTs are not

acceptable. The mounting for CT's on wood shall not be acceptable.

G. CT enclosures shall be mounted securely on a level surface. A 30-inch minimum and

96-inch maximum height to the bottom of the enclosure shall be maintained from final

grade or other accessible surface.

H. All CT enclosures are built with a top side and a bottom side and must be mounted top

side up. If the enclosure is mounted sideways or upside down, the installation will NOT

be approved, and the enclosure will need to be replaced and mounted correctly. All

Service wire shall be correctly routed through the CT window.

I. CT Enclosure doors must be able to open at a minimum of 90 degrees and must lock

into place via a manufacturer installed door stop or a contractor-installed door stop kit.

Supply chain exceptions should be submitted to Distribution Metering Operations at

AEDistributionMetering@austinenergy.com

J. The CT enclosure shall not be used as a junction box.

K. Conduit entering at the top of a CT enclosure shall be attached by a welded hub or a

rain tight, insulated hub (such as Myers Hub), and approved by the AE Distribution

TABLE 1.9.1.9.B

MINIMUM CT ENCLOSURE SIZES

4-W, 3-Phase, Wye

120/208V

4-W, 3-Phase, Delta

120/240V

3-W, Single-Phase,

120/240V

4-W, 3-Phase, Wye

277/480V

Rating (Amps) Size (Inches) Size (Inches)

351-600 AE-Approved Transocket AE-Approved Transocket

601–1200 36x36x14 42x42x14

1201–1600 42x42x14 48x48x14

1601–2000 48x48x14 54x54x16

Over 2000 Contact Distribution Metering

Operations business unit

Contact Distribution Metering

Operations business unit

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

Metering Operations business unit.

L. The conduit from the CT enclosure to the meter enclosure shall be rigid metal conduit

or Schedule 80 PVC conduit. It shall have a 1-1/4-inch minimum inside to 1-1/2 inch

maximum diameter and a minimum length of 4 inches and a maximum length of 40

feet.

Note: For runs greater than 40 feet, contact the AE Distribution Metering Operations

business unit.

M. For side-by-side applications use only straight nipples. Offsets are not allowed.

N. There shall be a #6 AWG copper conductor for case grounding from the CT enclosure to

the meter enclosure. This ground must be connected to the building ground or a driven

ground and run inside a conduit only, not external to either enclosure.

O. When using a transocket for three phase 277/480v services, a 2.5:1 VT pack, wiring

harness, and VT enclosure shall be required. There shall be a #6 AWG copper

conductor for case grounding, from the transocket to the VT enclosure. This ground

must be connected to the building ground or a driven ground run inside conduit only,

not external to either enclosure.

P. The VT enclosure must be mounted not more than 72” from final grade to the bottom of

the enclosure. With a minimum height of 30” from final grade to the bottom of the

enclosure. Use straight nipples only, no offsets allowed. The VT enclosure must be

mounted within 12” of the transocket or meter enclosure.

Q. No more than two 90-degree bends and two condulets (LL-LB-LR) at meter enclosure

or corner of the building shall be permitted.

R. Requests for the use of non-approved CT enclosures will need to be submitted to AE

Distribution Metering Operations for review prior to procurement.

S. Current transformers (CTs) and/or Voltage transformers (VTs) shall not be allowed

inside customer switchgear for revenue metering purposes.

T. Existing CT installations located inside a customer’s switchgear and requiring upgrades

or modifications must meet the following:

• Fed from a dedicated pad-mounted transformer: Must now be metered at the pad-

mounted transformer

• The pad-mounted transformer feeds multiple customers: The service must now be

rebuilt on the external wall of the building. This includes relocating or adding a

new main disconnect, as the meter/meter equipment/disconnect must be grouped

together.

U. When pulling conductors through window type CTs, the conductor' colors shall be

installed per Table 1.3.7. If the wiring installation has more than one conductor per

phase, the same conductor color must go through each CT (Example: all red

conductors through the 1st CT; all black conductors through the 2nd CT, and so on.)

V. All conductors shall be phased on both sides of the current transformers (CT’s) unless

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

the color coated wire is used.

W. Instrument-rated meter installations must be inspected by the AE Distribution Metering

Inspections business unit before the meters are set and the service energized.

Metering Large Capacity Services

Metering of large power installations (above 1200 amps) requires special and individual consideration

by both the Customer and AE. When planning any such as installation, the Customer shall consult

with and receive written approval from the AE Distribution Metering Operations business unit.

Application of Metering Equipment

Table 1.9.1.11 provides the requirements for meter sockets and enclosures as follows:

TABLE 1.9.1.11

METER SOCKETS AND ENCLOSURES

SOCKET

ENCLOSURE

TYPE

CONDUCTOR TYPE & SIZE (AWG)

APPLICATION

Residential

Commercial

Copper

Aluminum

Copper

Aluminum

Phase

Max Amps

Min

Max

Min

Max

Min

Max

Min

Max

200-S Single 225 1/0 3/0 3/0 250 2/0 4/0 4/0 300

200-SP Three 225 1/0 4/0 2/0 300 1/0 4/0 2/0 300

320-SLR

120/240V only

(UG – 3” conduit)

Single 350 4/0 400 300 600 4/0 500 300 500

Multiple

(Written approval

from AE

Distribution

Metering Operations

business unit)

1/0 1/0 1/0 3/0 1/0 2/0 1/0 3/0

Instrument Rated Meter

(IR) Socket)

For services where CT-rated, socket-type metering equipment is used

Ganged-Meter Socket

Assembly (Modular

Metering),

Meter Pedestal

Furnished, installed, owned, and maintained by Customer. Prior to

purchasing and installation, contact the AE Advanced Metering

Engineering business unit for an approved list.

Aeadvancedmeteringengineering@austinenergy.com

Note: The main disconnect or any parallel combination of disconnects or service switches shall not exceed the rating

of the meter socket or the meter. All self-contained meter sockets shall be ringless with locking jaw lever bypass.

See the AE website for approval details and specifications.

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

Primary Metering

See Section 1.5.2.7 Primary Voltage Service.

Load Profile Services

For consumption and demand information via AE’s password protected website, AE can provide

wireless communications at an additional cost. For additional information, contact AE’s Key Account

Management (keyaccount[email protected]

Clearances and Mounting Heights for Metering Equipment and Enclosures

A. A minimum 2-inch installation clearance shall be maintained on all sides of meter sockets,

transockets, and metering enclosures.

B. In addition, the minimum working clearances for metering equipment and enclosures shall

be as follows:

1. Front working space: 30-inch-wide, or width of equipment, whichever is greater

(centered on equipment)

2. 36 inches in front (direction of access measured from the face of the meter socket)

3. 6-foot 6-inch headroom.

C. Minimum and maximum mounting heights measured from final grade or other accessible

surfaces shall be as follows in Table 1.9.2.C.

D. Minimum of 1 ft. from all exterior openings (i.e., door frames and windows).

Note: If the door hits the meter when it opens, a bollard or protective barrier shall be put in

place to prevent the meter from being damaged, or the customer must relocate the meter

for the door to clear the electric meter.

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

TABLE 1.9.2.C

MOUNTING HEIGHTS FOR METERING EQUIPMENT AND ENCLOSURES

Height Measured from

Final Grade or Other

Accessible Surface to:

Minimum/

Maximum

(inches)

Socket or Enclosure

Center of Meter Socket

Opening

30 / 72

200-S Single Phase

200-S Three Phase

320-S Single Phase

Meter Pedestal

Modular Metering

Packs

48 / 72 Transocket

Instrument Rated Meter (IR)

Sockets

30 / 72 Modular Metering

Installation of Metering Equipment

Location of Meter Sockets, Transockets, CT Enclosures, and Meter Centers

A. Meter sockets, transockets, enclosures, and meter centers shall be outdoors and be

readily accessible for reading, testing, and other maintenance.

B. All meter location(s) shall be on the first floor or ground level and shall be within of

sight of an AE transformer. (AE Design and Distribution Metering business unit must

approve meter location exceptions in writing.) Specific written approval of AE Design is

required to locate meters inside or behind any type of door.

C. Electric meters shall not be installed in any of the following locations:

1. On or under porches, stairways, or similar structures

2. Under overhangs (overhead services only), carports, or similar structures that

exceed 72 inches

3. Where moving objects might damage the metering equipment

4. Within a circle radius of 3 feet of gas meters, regulators, relief valves, and

electrical apparatuses.

D. It is the Customer's responsibility to see that the meter location remains the same as

constructed and to keep the area below and in front of the meter location clear of

debris, such as: refrigeration equipment, trash boxes, landscaping, or any other

obstructions that would affect the access and safety of AE personnel working on the

equipment.

E. The meter may be placed behind doors for appearance or protection only with written

approval from the AE Design. NOTE: As per the City of Austin Ordinance and as an AE

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

requirement, AE must have 24/7 safe and unobstructed access to all AE facilities,

including but not limited to transformers, poles, meter enclosures, CT enclosures, ect.

F. The Customer shall provide a programmable door handle lock (mechanical or digital)

installed into the exterior door to AE specifications. The Customer shall post a

permanent sign on the door with 2-inch letters identifying it as the door to the Electric

meter room.

G. When the meter socket, transocket, CT enclosure, and service equipment locations are

subject to the 100 Year Reference Flood Datum ordinance, they must be a minimum of

1 foot above flood level, measured to the bottom of the meter socket or enclosure, as

required by the Spot & Conduit business unit (single-phase services) or AE Design

(three-phase services).

H. Some circumstances may require the Customer to furnish, install, own and maintain a

permanent structure for access to the meter socket, transocket, meter enclosure, CT

enclosure, and service equipment. Before installing a permanent standing surface or

platform (30-inch width and 36-inch depth minimum, NEC 110.26), the Customer shall

provide an engineered drawing of the proposed structure and obtain written approval

from AE Design for the design and type of materials to be used. The permanent

standing surface shall be accessible by stairs (not ladder) and be inspected and

approved by AE Design, or its designee.

I. The meter(s) and disconnect(s) shall be grouped together in a common location. When

metered at a transformer, the disconnect shall be grouped with the meter beside the

AE transformer (but adhere to the transformer clearances (see section 1.10.4)) or

outside the building within line of sight of the AE transformer. (See Section 1.8.4 for

main disconnect requirements.)

J. The maximum distance allowed between a meter and a disconnect is 20 feet. The

meter and disconnect must be within line of sight of each other and readily accessible,

or as determined by AE Distribution Metering Operations.

Meter Rooms

A meter room is a weatherproof, illuminated room provided by the customer and used to enclose

electric service and metering equipment inside a building. Meter rooms are allowed upon Customer’s

compliance with the following requirements and written approval by AE Distribution Metering business

unit:

A. Locations

1. Meter room(s) must have one exterior wall and be accessible from outside the

customer’s building to AE personnel from an exterior door located at ground level.

The door must be clearly visible from the transformer location.

2. For meter rooms located inside a “High Rise” building, the location of the meters

may be located on upper floors or above-grade garages and must be approved by

AE Distribution Metering Operations business unit.

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3. For a building to be considered as a “High Rise”, the building must be a building

with an occupied floor located more than 75 feet (22,860 mm) above the lowest

level of fire department vehicle access.

B. Access

1. All access doors must be accessible 24/7 and shall not be located behind an

access gate or fence/roll up gate.

2. Meter room(s) located on a first floor shall have access from a door located on the

building exterior wall opening directly into the meter room or, when approved by

the AE Distribution Metering business unit, from a door opening directly into the

meter room from a public area or hallway. Where a second access door is

provided, the door shall not exit into any occupancy. The access door to the

meter room must be within line of sight of the nearest AE transformer.

3. Meter rooms located on garage levels shall have access doors opening directly to

the garage or parking area.

4. Meter rooms in high-rises may be located on an upper-level floor and shall have

stairs of normal tread and rise and be located near an elevator.

C. Doors

1. Entrance to the meter room(s) must be through a doorway not less than 30 inches

wide and 6 feet-6 inches high.

2. Doors must be designed to open outward from the room and be equipped with

lever-actuated, safety hardware. If this is not practical in AE’s judgment, doors

may be permitted to open into the room provided the doors are:

a. Equipped with devices to hold the door in the open position.

b. Located so the doors will not open into the meters or obstruct any required

working space.

Note: ROLL-UP DOORS AND TOP-HINGED DOORS ARE NOT ACCEPTABLE.

D. Locking Provisions

1. When the meter room is to be locked, the customer shall install a programmable

door handle lock (mechanical or digital) installed into the exterior door to AE

specification.

2. The programmable door handle lock must be programmable by AE personnel.

E. Identification

1. Each meter room door shall be provided with a permanent sign reading “ELECTRIC

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METER ROOM” with 2-inch letters.

2. Where more than one-meter room or location is provided, the sign shall identify

each location by number (i.e., “1 of 2” and “2 of 2”) and shall include a map of

the building showing the other meter locations and areas controlled by each

location.

3. The sign shall be metal or plastic with engraved or machine printed letters, or

electro-photo plating, in a contrasting color to the sign and shall be attached with

screws, pop-rivets or epoxy.

F. Foreign Equipment

1. Cable television, telephone, and other communications installed in the meter room

shall not obstruct working and access clearances to the electric service and

metering equipment.

2. The meter room shall not be used for storage or warehousing purposes.

3. The following equipment shall not be permitted within the meter room:

a. Gas equipment – including piping.

b. Water heaters or boilers.

c. Security alarm systems connected to the access doors that operate when

entry is made to the meter room.

d. Batteries and battery charging equipment.

e. Any other equipment or facilities judged to be unacceptable by the AE

Distribution Metering Operations business unit.

G. AMI Communication

1. The customer shall conduct a pre-assessment of communication signal strength

through AE’s AMI network provider.

2. The customer shall purchase, install and maintain any and all communication

equipment required by the meters to communicate to AE’s AMI network provider/

3. If Austin Energy’s AMI network provider has any difficulty in reading the meters

after installing and energizing the meters, then the customer shall, at the

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customer’s sole cost and within 30 days of receipt of such notice from AE.

Relocate the meters to a different location that is approved in advance by AE

Distribution Metering Operations business unit.

4. If Austin Energy’s AMI network provider has any difficulty in reading the meters

after installing and energizing the meters, the customer agrees to reimburse AE

for all the cost incurred by AE in manually reading the meters. The Customer

must make the reimbursement within 30 days of receipt of AE’s invoice for

manual reading costs.

Mounting of Meter Sockets, Transockets, and Enclosures

A. Meter sockets, transockets, meter enclosures, Voltage Transformer enclosures, and CT

enclosures shall be securely mounted level and plumb on the exterior finished surface

of the building or structure, using only the mounting holes provided. Where meter

sockets, transockets, meter enclosures, Voltage Transformer enclosures, and CT

enclosures are attached to masonry or concrete walls, approved expansion bolts or

anchors shall be used. Wood plugs or plastic anchors are not acceptable.

B. The meter socket should be mounted on the exterior finished surface of a building or

structure and be within line of sight of the nearest AE transformer.

C. If the meter enclosure is mounted inside of a building, closet, or behind locked gates,

the AE Distribution Metering Operation business unit must be consulted and must

approve the installation.

D. Service conduit shall be exposed on the exterior finished surface of the building or

structure.

E. When running conduits into the meter enclosure, run the conduit into the factory-

punched knock-outs only. Do not cut any holes in the meter enclosure. If holes are cut

in the meter enclosure, AE will consider it damaged and will not approve the

installation. AE will require the damaged enclosure to be replaced with a new one at

the Customer’s cost. Resealing the holes will not be acceptable.

F. Identification of Customer’s Meters’ according to Section 1.9.1.7 is required for all meter

installations. When desired, meter sockets, transockets, and enclosures may be painted

for aesthetic purposes.

Grouping of Meters

A. Where two or more meters are installed at one location and served from one set of

service conductors, a service distribution enclosure (SDE) and wireway must be used

to connect the enclosures or sockets. See additional SDE information in appendix.

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B. Only line conductors are permitted in the service distribution enclosure, junction box,

or wireway. Meters and mains served from one spot location must be grouped and

marked. (See Identification of Customer Meters, 1.9.1.7 in this section.)

Submetering – Residential and Commercial

Definitions

In this section:

“Apartment house” means one or more buildings containing six or more dwelling units, each of which

is rented primarily for non-transient use with rent paid at intervals of one week or longer. The term

includes a rented or owner-occupied residential condominium building.

“Dwelling unit” means one or more rooms suitable for occupancy as a resident and that contain

kitchen and bathroom facilities, or a mobile home in a mobile home park.

“Owner” means any owner, operator, or manager of any apartment house, mobile home park, small

multi-unit housing development, or commercial development engaged in electric submetering.

“Small multi-unit housing developments” means any multi-unit residential building or buildings

comprising five or fewer dwelling units.

Approval

“Submeter” means to allocate fairly the cost of the electrical usage of each dwelling unit in an

apartment house, mobile home park, or small multi-unit housing development, or each commercial

unit in a commercial development through the use of submetering equipment.

Apartment houses and mobile home parks: Pursuant to the requirements of Texas Utilities

Code Sections 184.013 and 184.014 and any applicable rules adopted by the Public Utility

Commission of Texas, the owner of an apartment house or mobile home park may submeter

each dwelling unit in the apartment house or mobile home park to measure the quantity of

electricity consumed by the occupants of each dwelling unit.

Commercial units and small multi-unit housing developments: The owner of a commercial unit

Or a small multi-unit housing development must obtain written approval to submeter each commercial

unit or dwelling unit from the AE Distribution Metering Operations business unit. Approval will be

based on compliance with the requirements on submetering in City Code.

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CLEARANCE AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS

For ease of reference, Section 1.10.0 is a collection of the various clearance requirements and information

concerning temporary working clearances from AE distribution facilities during the construction phase of the

Customer’s facility and concerning the final permanent clearances of the Customer’s facilities from AE

overhead, underground, and pad-mounted distribution facilities (see sections 1.4.0, 1.5.0, and 1.9.0.). For

transmission and substation requirements, refer to Section 1.14.0.

Safety

At all times during construction and maintenance (including temporary or permanent facilities), the

Customer shall use proper procedures complying with all building codes, State laws, the NEC, NESC, and

federal laws, including OSHA requirements.

Minimum Working Clearances from Energized Overhead Electric Utility Lines

A. Strict compliance with Texas law and OSHA is mandatory:

OSHA 1910.333 prohibits

all activities in which unqualified persons or things may come within 10 feet in any direction

of live overhead lines with a voltage to ground of 50kV or below, or within 10 feet plus 4

inches for every 10kV over 50kV. This applies both to AC and DC voltages. . Chapter 752 of

Texas Health & Safety Code has similar restrictions.

The operation of equipment such as a crane, derrick, drilling rig, hay loader or similar

equipment—any part of which is capable of vertical, lateral, or swinging motion—is

forbidden by OSHA requirements (see OSHA 1926.1400, including 1926.1408) to operate

within certain distances based on line voltage in any direction of live overhead high-voltage

lines. Contractors and owners (not AE) are legally responsible for the safety of construction

workers under this law, which carries both criminal and civil liability.

B. Notification Requirement. The Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 752, Section

752.003 requires that the owner, contractor, or association responsible for temporary work

in the vicinity of high-voltage electric lines must notify the operator of the line (Austin

Energy) at least 48 hours before the work begins. No work can begin until the persons

responsible for the temporary work and the operator of the line (Austin Energy) have made

satisfactory arrangements to de-energize and ground, move or relocate the line to prevent

accidental contact.

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Figure 1.10.2A - OSHA Working Clearances from Overhead Lines for Unqualified Persons

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December 12, 2023

Permanent Clearances from AE Overhead Distribution Lines and Facilities

The Customer's facilities/installations shall maintain clearances from AE electric distribution overhead

facilities as required in Section 234 of the NESC. In addition, the Customer’s facilities shall not be installed

under or over AE overhead distribution facilities and shall maintain a minimum horizontal sky-to-ground

clearance of 7 feet-6 inches from overhead primary, neutral, and secondary conductors and a 15-foot-

radius clearance from overhead distribution primary and neutral conductors (see representation drawing

below). Additional clearance and access easements may be required by Austin Energy to ensure

accessibility to safely maintain AE infrastructure.

See the NESC and Austin Energy Permanent Clearance Envelopes in the diagram below. (Also see Section

1.10.6 for service drop clearances and Section 1.10.7 for clearances from swimming pools). These include,

but are not limited to, clearances from Customer’s buildings, parking garages, light poles, signs, billboards,

chimneys, radio and television antennas, tanks, and other installations. As required by AE Design, the

Customer shall provide AE with a survey showing the proximities of the Customer’s existing and/or

proposed facilities to existing AE primary voltage facilities. For more information, contact AE Design.

“Drawings to Help Determine Buildable Areas Outside of AE Clearance Envelopes

” can be found on the

Austin Energy website.

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December 12, 2023

Clearances from AE Padmount Equipment and Distribution Vaults

Minimum clearances required for all padmount transformer pads and other pad-mounted electrical

equipment as required by the AE Distribution Design business unit are listed in Table 1.10.4 and illustrated

in the following figure. Clearances are applicable only to brick or masonry structures with a minimum 2-

hour fire rating except as noted. For additional information on clearances from AE facilities and equipment,

contact AE Design.

TABLE 1.10.4

MINIMUM CLEARANCES FROM PADMOUNT EQUIPMENT PADS

AND

DISTRIBUTION VAULTS

1, 3, 4

Hot-stick-use area (pad-locked sides) of

all AE equipment, such as transformers

and switchgear

10 ft

Open area or clearance to adjacent building

or structure

Hot-stick use area of all AE equipment

such as transformers and switchgear)

15 ft

Facing a confined space such as a niche or

vault.

Sides without operators or controls

03 ft

Open area from any removable ventilated

obstruction (fence)

Sides with operators or controls

05 ft

Open area from any removable ventilated

obstruction (fence)

All sides

20 ft

Horizontal/radial clearance from the edge of oil-

filled equipment pad to fire escape or stairs that

serve as a fire escape

Any side when the pad is adjacent to

brick or masonry building or structure

05 ft

Minimum horizontal clearance from side edges

of equipment pad to building or structure.

Any side when the pad is adjacent to

brick or masonry building or structure

05 ft

Minimum lateral clearance from the edge of the

pad for windows, doors, and ventilating ducts.

Any side when the pad is adjacent to

NON brick or masonry building or

structure

12 ft

Horizontal clearance from the edge of oil- filled

equipment pad to NON brick or masonry building

or fixed structure

Any side when the pad is adjacent to

windows, doors, or ventilating ducts

12 ft

Vertical clearance from grade for windows, doors,

and ventilating ducts when lateral clearance is

less than 5 feet from oil-filled equipment pad.

Any side when the pad is adjacent to

windows, doors, or ventilating ducts

12 ft

Horizontal clearance from the edge of oil- filled

equipment pad to building or fixed structure, if a

window, door, or ventilating duct is less than 12 ft

from grade or has less than 5 ft of lateral

separation.

Vertical clearance above the pad and

the total minimum clearance area

surrounding the pad

No covering, building, or structure of any kind is

allowed directly above the pad or the minimum

equipment area associated with the pad.

Equipment pads must be located within 6 feet from parking/traffic areas for AE truck accessibility unless

otherwise specified by AE Design. Also, when the equipment pad is installed within 4 feet of

parking/traffic areas, 4-inch minimum galvanized rigid metal posts (bollards) must be installed as

indicated on equipment pad details from AE Design. Bollards must be spaced from equipment to allow for

opening of equipment doors. Equipment pads must be 2 feet from back of sidewalks. Transformer pads

cannot be placed near flammable liquids.

1 For oil filled pad-mounted equipment, liquid flow for the area surrounding the equipment should always be away from the building.

2 May be reduced to 3 feet (with AE Design written approval) for the clearance from one side of the pad (side without pad-lock,

operators, or controls) only if the lateral clearance to the pad is not in a confined space, such as a niche or a vault, is 10 feet or more

to windows, doors, or ventilating ducts, and only if vertical clearance to the pad is 15 feet or more to windows, doors, or ventilating

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ducts. The 3-foot clearance is applicable only to structures with a minimum 3-hour fire rating in the clearance area.

3 AE may provide electric service from a specialized niche that is accessible from outside of but located within the footprint of the

Customer’s building or structure. Niche service requires that all AE equipment be totally accessible by truck or other suitable AE

equipment for installation, operation, and maintenance purposes. Clearance requirements around the equipment shall be in

accordance with the latest Austin Energy Construction Standard and maintain a minimum 35-foot vertical clearance inside the niche

and the niche entrance. All walls and ceilings of the niche must have a minimum 3-hour fire wall and be properly ventilated. The

entrance and area in front of the equipment shall remain free and clear as per standard services. Consult with the Austin Energy

Design business unit for the design of the niche.

4 All padmount/vault/niche equipment must be installed on the Customer’s property, not in public ROW. All equipment and vaults

must be locked with an AE lock and accessible only to AE personnel.

5 The clearance specifications provided in this table do not apply to shrubbery and other forms of landscaping, including trees. The

clearance requirements for the placement of trees and landscaping near pad-mount equipment is provided in Section 1.10.10.4.

EXAMPLE: MINIMUM CLEARANCES FROM PADMOUNT TRANSFORMER PAD

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Clearances for AE Underground Cable, Conduit, and Underground Facilities

A. Clearances from the underground facilities of other utilities are as follows:

12-inches

minimum

Measured both horizontally and vertically (crossing perpendicularly

only) from AE's underground facilities (cable, conduit, duct structure,

pull-boxes, and such) to other utilities other than gas lines, fuel lines,

or steam lines. Joint trench is permitted with other utilities only by

written agreement with AE. Communication conduits are not allowed

over AE main line duct banks (see main line definition in glossary.)

36-inches

minimum

Measured both horizontally and vertically from AE's underground

facilities (cable, conduit, duct structure, pull-boxes, and such) to fuel

lines and high pressure gas pipelines (60 psi & over)*

24-inches

minimum

Measured horizontally from AE's underground facilities (cable,

conduit, duct structure, pull-boxes, and such) to gas pipelines (less

than 60 psi)

6-inches

minimum

Measured vertically from AE's underground facilities (cable, conduit,

duct structure, pull-boxes, and such) to gas pipelines (less than 60

psi)

36-inches

minimum

Measured vertically from AE's underground facilities (cable, conduit,

duct structure, pull-boxes, and such) to steam lines.

12-inches

minimum

Measured vertically, from AE's facilities (cable, conduit, and such)

where other UG utilities cross AE UG facilities. In addition, any AE

conduit must be encased in a minimum 2-inches of concrete for a

minimum of 24 inches on either side of crossing if and as required by

AE Design.

*Requires 3-in concrete encasement of AE conduit for 36 inches on both sides of crossing

when AE conduit is installed above the other utility conduit.

B. Clearance from Customer building, foundations, or other permanent structures is as

follows:

60-inches

minimum

Measured horizontally from AE's underground facilities (conduit, duct

structure, pull-boxes, manholes, and such). No Customer building,

foundation, or other permanent structure shall be installed over AE

underground facilities. Variations permitted for customer-installed AE

vault installations or by written permission from AE Design. At AE’s

discretion, conduit may pass through a retaining wall (below grade), but

a license agreement is required. The conduit must be installed in a

metal sleeve of sufficient size that allows the AE conduit to be replaced

without damage to the wall or wall footing, and must pass through the

wall perpendicularly and extend one inch past the wall and wall footing.

It is the property owner’s responsibility to maintain the wall. Austin

Energy requires engineering drawings sealed by a professional engineer

as required by the City of Austin Utility Criteria Manual. (Clearance

required for swimming pools. See 1.10.7)

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December 12, 2023

Clearances for AE Facilities from Customer’s Service Entrance Facilities

General

The Customer's service entrance facilities (such as service equipment, service conductors, one-point

rack) for permanent and temporary services shall be installed according to the following:

Service-Drop Conductor Clearances

Clearances/Attachment Heights. NESC (Section 23) along with AE Distribution

Design and Construction Standards require minimum clearances for service-drop

conductors from final grade or other accessible surfaces, which shall be maintained at

all times. To facilitate these clearances, minimum attachment heights shall be as listed

in Table 1.5.3.3.C.2. For more information, contact AE Design.

All clearances shall comply with rules and exceptions as stated in the NESC.

TABLE 1.5.3.3.C.2

VERTICAL CLEARANCES AND ATTACHMENT HEIGHTS FOR RESIDENTIAL AND

COMMERCIAL SERVICE-DROP CONDUCTORS COMMERCIAL SERVICES

Minimum

Clearance

From Final Grade/

Other Accessible

Surface (Feet)

Attachment Height

Minimum

(Feet)

Maximum

(Feet)

Residential services over areas

accessible to pedestrians only.

12.5

Services passing over residential

driveways, or parking lots and alleys

(not subject to truck traffic). Commercial

services over areas accessible to

pedestrians only.

Services passing over roads, streets,

alleys, parking lots, subject to truck

traffic or other land such as cultivated,

grazing, forest, orchards, etc. traversed

by vehicles

A minimum clearance above the roof of 3 feet shall be permitted for service-mast

installations, including but not limited to service-mast (through-the-roof) installations, where

the voltage between conductors does not exceed 300V.

10-foot

minimum

measured horizontally, from AE's facilities (poles and overhead lines

other than the service drop) regardless of service size

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December 12, 2023

Where the voltage between conductors does not exceed 300V and the mast is located within

4 feet of the edge of the roof and above only the overhanging portion of the roof, a minimum

clearance of 18 inches shall be permitted for service-mast (through-the-roof) installation. No

more than 10 feet of service-drop conductors may pass above the roof overhang.

No more than 6 feet of service-drop conductors may pass over the roof.

1 The Spot & Conduit business unit (for single-phase services) or AE Design business unit (for three-

phase services) may approve an attachment height, other than those listed in this table, based on the

circumstances at the site location. However, minimum attachment height shall be maintained at all

times to meet NESC requirements.

2 Attachment heights should in no case exceed the maximum as listed unless approved in advance by

AE Spot & Conduit business unit (for single-phase services) or AE Design (for three-phase services).

Clearances from Swimming Pools, Hot Tubs, Saunas, and Man-Made

Retention Ponds

A. A minimum 10-foot clearance measured horizontally is required from any AE overhead

distribution facilities to the water’s edge of swimming pools, the base of diving platforms,

hot tubs, spas, anchored rafts, and such (See section 1.18.0 Appendix – Figures 1-34 and

1-35).

B. A minimum 10-foot clearance measured horizontally is required from any AE overhead

distribution facilities to the water’s edge of man-made retention ponds constructed from

materials such as concrete.

C. A minimum 10-foot clearance to AE underground distribution facilities (transformer, pull

box, etc.), or a 5-foot clearance to underground conduits and conductors, measured

horizontally, is required to the water’s edge of swimming pools, man-made retention ponds,

the base of diving platforms, hot tubs, spas, anchored rafts, etc.

D. The AE electric meter (mounted on building or structure) must be located at least 5 feet,

measured horizontally, from the water’s edge of swimming pools, man-made retention

ponds, hot tubs, spas, or similar structures.

E. If any of the above Customer facilities are installed between AE’s last designated facility

and the Customer’s service/meter location or closer than minimum clearances given, any

additional AE facilities, material, and/or labor required to maintain the minimum clearance

shall be at the Customer’s expense. Any relocation shall be at the Customer’s expense.

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December 12, 2023

Figure 1.10.7A - Clearance from Water Holding Facilities to Overhead Electric Facilities

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

Figure 1.10.7B - Clearance from Water Holding Facilities to Underground Electric Facilities

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December 12, 2023

Clearances from Septic Systems and Drain Field Systems

A. Septic and drain field systems must be located no closer than 5 feet, measured

horizontally, from service boxes, pull-boxes, transformers, secondary risers, power poles,

service conduits, service conductors, and metering equipment or any other AE or

Customer-owned facilities ahead of and including metering equipment.

B. If a septic system and/or drain field system is to be installed in a residential subdivision

with underground facilities, the Customer shall contact AE Design to verify underground

electric locations before seeking approval from the Travis County Health department or

applicable county health departments within the AE service area.

Clearances for Metering Equipment and Enclosures

(See Section 1.9.2)

A. A minimum 2-inch installation clearance must be maintained on all sides of meter sockets,

transockets, and meter enclosures.

B. In addition, the minimum working clearances for metering equipment and enclosures are as

follows:

1. 30-inch-wide front working space with a minimum 6 inches on each side

2. 36 inches in front (direction of access measured from the face of the meter socket)

3. 6-foot 6-inch headroom.

Customer Activities in Utility Easements

Excavations

To comply with the requirements of the National Electrical Safety Code, 2007 or most current edition

and this Design Criteria, it is important and necessary that all AE underground/pad-mounted facilities

(or any civil work for AE facilities) be installed in anticipation of the final grade. Final grades should

not be changed by excavation or filling without the prior written approval of Austin Energy. Prior to

any excavation, the Customer or the Customer’s engineers, designers, construction personnel, or

such must contact One Call so that AE personnel can locate and mark any existing underground AE

facilities. The Customer must pay in advance for the full cost of any required alteration or relocation

of AE facilities to re-establish the required minimum or maximum clearances or heights.

Fences and Structures

It is permissible to install fences on utility easements provided that the fences can be removed to

permit AE crew and equipment access. Fences that permanently restrict AE access to AE distribution

electric lines and equipment or conflict with other utility equipment are not allowed. AE reserves the

right to remove any obstruction without fault.

No permanent structures, swimming pools, or buildings are allowed on the easement. A minimum

clearance of 8 feet is required around all pedestals, subsurface AE vaults or manholes that require

personnel access (see also Section 1.10.4 concerning pad-mounted equipment). Prior to any digging,

the Customer must contact One Call so that AE personnel can locate and mark any existing

underground AE facilities prior to digging. Other detailed information concerning required clearances is

contained within this section.

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

Landscaping and Tree Placement Guidelines

It is permissible to install landscaping in utility easements if such landscaping does not restrict AE

personnel and equipment access to distribution electric lines or equipment or conflict with other utility

equipment. AE reserves the right to remove any obstruction without fault.

For sodding or filling, see Section 1.10.10.1 above. For shrubbery, see sections 1.10.4, 1.10.10.2, and

1.10.10.4 for minimum clearances required around all pad-mounted equipment, pedestals, subsurface

AE vaults or manholes that require personnel access.

Where the Customer installs landscaping on or trees near a utility easement (or AE facilities) such that

additional upkeep, maintenance, or other costs are incurred by AE, the Customer or owner shall pay

these costs. In addition, a License Agreement must be obtained from and filed with AE Public

Involvement before installing any landscaping that might in any way obstruct AE’s access to existing

or future AE facilities located within the easement area. Contact AE Design for additional information

Trees in Proximity to Electric Utility Infrastructure

In areas where electric utility power lines or other electric utility equipment are present or proposed,

only trees identified as utility compatible in Appendix F of the Environmental Criteria Manual (ECM)

shall be planted within:

A. 15 lateral feet from any overhead electric distribution conductor or equipment; and

B. 50 lateral feet from any overhead electric transmission conductor or equipment, unless a

more restrictive easement has been established.

Overhead electric utility line compatible trees, identified as “Utility Compatible (UC)” in Appendix F of

the ECM, are generally those that do not reach a mature height greater than 20 feet with any

exceptions identified in Appendix F of the ECM.

The following tree placement restrictions of any tree species apply unless approved by Austin Energy:

i. A tree may not be placed within an electric transmission easement;

ii. A tree may not be placed within 10 lateral feet of an electric utility pole;

iii. A tree may not be placed within 10 lateral feet of any side of pad mounted electric

equipment or within any distance between the access door and the drivable surface (i.e.,

street or alley) used to access the equipment (note: shrubs or other low-lying vegetation is

also restricted within 10 lateral feet of the access door side and 5 lateral feet of the other

sides of the pad mounted electric equipment); and

iv. A tree may not be placed within 5 lateral feet of any underground electric equipment.

Large trees, defined as trees with a mature height of 40 feet or greater as identified in Appendix F of

the ECM, may not be planted within 25 lateral feet of overhead electric conductor or equipment or

within 50 lateral feet of overhead electric transmission conductor or equipment pad.

Any trees planted within 20 lateral feet of underground electric equipment must install root barriers

between the tree and the equipment with a minimum installation of 4 feet deep and five feet from the

equipment.

The table below provides a summary on tree planting requirements in the vicinity of electric utility

infrastructure subject to approval by Austin Energy. Variations to these planting distances and tree

species identified as utility compatible in Appendix F of the ECM may be made only with the explicit

written approval of Austin Energy.

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

Type of Electric Utility

Equipment Planting Distance Allowed Tree Types

Electric distribution conductor

and equipment (overhead)

Less than 15 lateral feet

Utility compatible trees only

(see Appendix F of the ECM)

15-25 lateral feet

Utility compatible trees (see

Appendix F of the ECM) and

other trees identified in

Appendix F of the ECM with

mature height less than 40 feet

Greater than 25 lateral feet All

Electric transmission conductor

and equipment (overhead)

Within electric transmission

easement

None

0-50 lateral feet and not within

electric transmission easement

Utility compatible trees only

(see Appendix F of the ECM)

Greater than 50 lateral feet and

not within electric transmission

easement

All

Electric distribution and

transmission conductor and

equipment (underground)

0-5 lateral feet None

Greater than 5 lateral feet

All, when root barriers are

installed

Pad mounted electric

equipment (access door side)

Between access door and

drivable surface (i.e., street or

alley)

None

Pad mounted electric

equipment (sides other than

access door side)

0-10 lateral feet None

Greater than 10 lateral feet All

Electric utility pole

0-10 lateral feet None

Greater than 10 lateral feet

Dependent on other conditions

above

Digging

Prior to any digging, the Customer must contact One Call (1-800-344-8377) so that AE personnel can

locate and mark any existing underground AE facilities prior to digging.

Clearances for Transmission and Substation Facilities

(See Section 1.14.0)

Clearances for District Cooling Facilities

(See Section 1.15.0)

Removal of Electric Utility Equipment for Demolition Permits

In accordance with City Code Section 25-11-64, an applicant for a demolition permit must submit written

verification that utilities for the proposed development are suitable and sufficient for the proposed project.

After a demolition application has been approved but before demolition can occur, the applicant must

terminate electric utility service, unless the applicant submits a request for continued services and receives

approval from Austin Energy. Otherwise, the customer must contact Austin Energy to arrange to have the

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December 12, 2023

electric meter and service drop removed from the structure. Demolition may not proceed until the electric

meter and service drop has been removed by Austin Energy.

The customer may contact the Austin Energy Call center at 512-494-9400 to request continuation of

electric utility service or termination of service and removal of the electric meter and service drop prior to

proceeding with demolition. In order to process and complete the service request for utility removals prior

to demolition, the property must be vacant, the applicant must be the property owner, and the applicant

must provide a valid emergency address (E911), email address, and the meter number found on the utility

bill and the front of the meter. Austin Energy will provide confirmation of removal of the utilities via email

and the customer should confirm completion by checking the job site and reviewing the one-time inspection

demarcation found on the demolition permit. Any utility removal performed by non-Austin Energy

personnel is strictly prohibited and will be assessed a tampering fee in accordance with Austin Energy’s fee

schedule and a hold will be placed on issuance of any permits until the fee is paid.

DISTRIBUTION NETWORK TRANSFORMER VAULTS

General Requirements for Transformer Vaults

In order to provide a high standard of electrical power to Customers served from transformer vaults, AE

Network Design has formulated the following requirements. These requirements should be strictly adhered

to in the planning and construction of all transformer vaults.

A. Codes. The vault must conform to all requirements of the NEC, Article 450. In addition, it

must conform to the other appropriate requirements for Electric Service given in this

Design Criteria.

B. Load. The Customer must provide an initial estimate of the total connected load and

requested voltage for the proposed project as early in the planning stages as possible to AE

Network Design. AE must be informed of any changes during the planning stages that

would increase or change the initially estimated load. Customer shall provide an ESPA form

to AE Network Design when the final voltage and load is calculated. The Customer should

also provide foreseeable future expansions load information in addition to the initial load

calculations. Any deviation from the original signed and approved ESPA form that would

require the re-submittal of the ESPA could result in additional fee at the Customer's

expense.

C. Location. The location of the vault must be coordinated with AE. This location shall be at a

single service address totally contained within the CUSTOMER'S BUILDING property. All

services in the Network Area must comply with sections 1.5.1.3 and 1.5.1.4 of the AE

Design Criteria. The vault location shall have 24/7 unabated access to the vault, including

holidays. The floor of the vault must be at least 2 feet above the 100-year Reference Flood

Datum (RFD) defined for that location.

D. Plans. A set of plans showing the vault location, access and elevation must be submitted

to AE Network Design for approval. (The Customer should allow 3 to 6 months for an AE

vault design.) The Customer must provide AE with the plans of any construction changes

that might affect the vault as soon as they become available. All structural plans must be

sealed by a Professional Engineer registered in the State of Texas.

E. Secondary Strain. The secondary phase conductors must be collected and split in a

phase collection box outside the vault. Copper bus bars must be used to enter the vault

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December 12, 2023

and must extend a minimum of 12 inches past the inner vault wall. A full current neutral is

required. All phases shall be the same distance from the vault floor (a minimum of 8 or 9

feet depending upon the voltage and amperage); phasing rotation shall be specified by AE

Network Design. All bus bars shall be vertical and shall have standard NEMA bolt spacing.

No part of the stub-in may be closer than 3 feet to any wall or 1.5 feet from ceiling and

shall be at a location approved by AE Network Design. AE Network Design shall approve the

manufacturer's drawings of the bus duct before bus fabrication begins. (Stub-in placement

and number may affect ceiling height.)

F. Primary Conduit. The Customer must provide the required primary trench, conduits,

manholes and pull-boxes from the vault to AE's point of service as determined by AE

Network Design. No primary conduit may be routed under existing or proposed buildings or

structures. The location of the primary conduit entry into the vault will be specified by AE.

For details on the trench, manholes, and pull-boxes, contact the AE Network Design

business unit.

G. Vault Agreement. A Vault Agreement on standard COA forms, signed by the property

owner allowing access for installation and maintenance of AE-installed and -owned electrical

facilities and starting at the property line is required by AE. All agreement documents must

be prepared by AE and mailed to the owner(s) for a signature. The completed documents

must be returned to AE before AE energizes the electrical facilities on the Customer’s

property.

H. Grounding Conductor. The Customer must provide a #4/0 bare copper grounding

conductor under the floor of the vault with each end stubbed up 6 feet into the vault. The

grounding conductor length will be determined by AE. The grounding conductor must be

located a minimum of 6 inches below the slab and shall not be encapsulated in the

concrete. The measured ground impedance shall be 25 ohms or less. In the event the

above procedure is not feasible, i.e., an existing structure is being renovated, a suitable

alternate grounding method shall be considered by AE.

I. Ventilation. Intake and exhaust openings for AE equipment ventilation must be sized and

located by AE. The Customer must provide sturdy galvanized louvers, three-hour- rated fire

dampers and ½-inch galvanized mesh over the required openings. Any necessary

ventilation equipment shall be provided and installed by AE. Fire damper and louver

assemblies are not allowed to protrude into the vault.

J. Oil Reservoir. The vault must have a concrete-lined oil reservoir, the size, and location

of which will be determined by AE Network Design. The reservoir may not drain to the

exterior environment.

K. Doors. Vault doors must be large enough to permit transformer installation; AE Network

Design shall determine their size and location. All exterior doors must be 1-1/2 hour fire-

rated and must be equipped with an AE specified brand locking handles or deadbolts. All

interior doors shall be 3-hour fire-rated. The Customer shall provide the locking devices

and a locksmith to change the tumblers to provide access to only AE personnel. All vault

doors shall be equipped with AE approved panic bars on the interior.

L. Truck Access. Access to the vault shall be provided from a paved road with a minimum

width of 20 feet and a minimum vertical clearance of 35 feet or as specified by AE Network

Design. Where access is by a paved road or another all-weather prepared surface, the

surface shall be capable of supporting, without damage to the road, a total weight of

72,180 pounds with a maximum rear axle weight of 32,530 pounds. The maximum

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acceptable grade of any outside ramp leading to the vault entrance is 12 percent.

M. Vault Door Approach. This 10’ wide zone is the area from the vault doors to the truck

access. This area is defined by 5’ on each side of the center of either a double 8’x8’ door or

a roll up door out to the truck access area (See “Truck Access”) and must maintain 35’

vertical clearance. In this area there shall be no street lights, benches, trash cans, bike

racks, planters, hydrants, tree wells, trees (including future canopies) or any other

structure. This area may contain the Transformer/Equipment Landing Area (See

“Transformer/Equipment Landing Area”). The maximum acceptable grade from the vault

doors to the truck access is 12% slope and must be able to support the weight of 15,000

lbs. In some cases, AE may require a ramp to transition from the Truck Access or road to

this area.

N. Personnel Access. Access to all vaults must be provided by doors as described in item

“Doors” above. Vaults must be locked with an AE lock and accessible only to AE personnel.

O. Transformer/Equipment Landing Area. This 10’ by 10’ zone is an area directly in front

of the vault doors needed to land transformers and equipment. This area is defined by 5’ on

each side of the center of any double 8’ by 8’ vault door or roll up vault door and 10’ out

from the wall surrounding the door. This 10’ by 10’ area shall have a smooth trowel finish

and shall not contain any pavers, stamped concrete, or expansions joints. This area must be

able to support the weight of 15,000 lbs. When requested, the customer shall provide a

concrete steel reinforced pad outside a designated vault door within the 10’ by 10’

Transformer/Equipment Landing Area. This pad shall be level with the point at which it

meets the finished vault floor with a 0%-2% slope away from the vault. It shall be a smooth

transition from pad to finished floor with no or as small a joint as possible. AE Design shall

specify pad size.

P. Vault Floor. The vault floor and supporting underlying structure shall be designed to bear

the weight of all transformers, network protectors and other required electrical equipment.

The transformer/equipment landing area shall be an extension of the vault floor with a

smooth trowel finish with no expansion joints in the floor – NO PAVERS PERMITTED. Upon

receiving the preliminary electrical load calculations, AE shall provide the Customer with

the required number and size of transformers. AE Network Design will provide transformer

maximum weights for vault design purposes.

Q. Walls. The vault room and ceiling shall be solid in construction and have a minimum of

three-hour fire rating. CMU walls must be concrete filled. No wall board (sheet rock)

construction is permitted on interior walls of vault. No lights, switched, electric conduit,

junction boxes, ventilation, sprinklers, alarms, heat, smoke or fire sensors, etc. are

permitted. Lighting installation is the responsibility of AE. The customer shall paint the

inside of the vault white semi-gloss.

R. Vault Completion. The Customer shall provide AE Network Design with a tentative date

when any electrical power from the vault shall be required and advise AE Network Design

of any changes to this date. Changes of more than 30 days shall be submitted in writing to

AE. In order to meet the Customer's power date, AE Network Design shall have 6-12 weeks

from the day the Customer's construction of the vault is complete to provide service. The

vault shall be considered complete when all specifications and requirements of AE have

been met and a final inspection by AE Network Design. AE shall not begin construction in

the vault until the vault has passed final inspection. Once the vault has passed final

inspection and the AE lock has been installed, the vault shall be accessible only to AE

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personnel.

S. Inspections. A series of vital inspections occur throughout the construction phase of the

transformer vaults. A minimum of three days’ notice prior to each inspection shall be given

to the appropriate inspector as designated by AE Network Design. Failure to comply with

any of the inspections may seriously affect vault completion and acceptance. These

inspections include only those required for the vault and primary cable installation. A

detailed list of required inspections is provided in Section 1.11.4.

T. All inspections of the Customer's equipment and installation must be coordinated with the

City of Austin DSD Building Inspections division. For inspection requests of the Customer’s

equipment and installation, call the automated inspection request system at 512-480-0623.

U. Customer must contact AE Distribution Metering Operations or Inspections to request the

spot location of metering equipment and other metering and meter location information.

Sub-surface Transformer Vault Requirements

In addition to the General requirements contained in Section 1.11.1, the requirements listed below are also

required for Austin Energy to safely and reliably provide electric service from subsurface vault structures.

A. Austin Energy service and emergency response vehicles must be provided 24-7 access to

the

electrical vault from a parking garage. To accommodate these vehicles, driveway lanes

from

garage entrance and exit to vault doors shall maintain a minimum clear height of 8

feet, 2 inches from

finished floor to any structure above (i.e. beams, plumbing, conduits,

signage, sprinklers, etc.).

Austin Energy must be provided a dedicated and marked “Austin

Energy Parking Only”

parking space within 20 feet of the vault doors.

B. For electrical vaults requiring 3 transformers to provide the requested service

requirements, Customer shall provide 3- hour fire-rated masonry with minimum dimensions

of 36 feet length x 30 feet width x 13 feet height. For vaults requiring 2 transformers, a 3-

hour fire-rated masonry room shall be provided by the Customer with minimum dimensions

of 28 feet length x 30 feet width x 13 feet height. The electrical vaults shall be designed to

stop the intrusion of water through all walls, floors, ceilings, and joints. The vault room

sizes listed shall be an open area without the use of columns.

C. The vaults must be located on an exterior wall.

D. The lift-out panels shall not be located over any part of the vault room area as stated

above in Section 1.12.2 (B). The lift-out panels must be designed to Austin Energy

requirements. No awning overhangs, protruding signs, decks, etc., are permitted within 35'

above the lift-out panels. A 30-inch x 30-inch lid fire-rated floor door must be installed

according to all applicable national standards.

E. No vault may be more than 18 feet from finished grade at the lift out panels to the finished

floor.

F. An OSHA-approved galvanized personnel ladder extension must be installed by the

Customer from the 30 inches x 30 inches lid to the electrical vault floor. The ladder is to be

constructed and installed according to all applicable national standards.

G. A minimum of an eight foot by eight foot 3-hour fire-rated door with fire-rated exit

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hardware must be installed with direct access to the electrical vault from the parking

garage. If fire-rated roll-up doors are requested by Austin Energy or the Customer, an

additional three-foot wide by eight-foot tall 3-hour fire-rated personnel door with fire-rated

exit hardware must be installed and shall provide direct access to the electrical vault from

the parking garage.

H. The Customer is to install and maintain a lighted staircase from street level to electric vault

floor level in close proximity to the entrance of the electrical vault. The electrical service for

the staircase must be provided from the Customer's emergency lighting panel.

I. All Ventilation ducts must be vented to the exterior of the electrical vault. Each ventilation

opening inside the electrical vault shall have 3-hour fire-rated curtain style dampers

installed. The intake vents must be vented from a fresh air location (fresh air intake from

the garage area is considered fresh air). The transformer vault ventilation shall not be

mixed with the building ventilation systems.

J. The Customer must coordinate in advance with Austin Energy Network Design to determine

the and layout of the vault, doors, ventilation facilities, lift-out panel location, entrances,

and electrical service stub-in entrance. This coordination must be during the structure

design planning phase of the project.

K. Ceiling, walls, and floor of the electrical vault must be designed to accommodate the

drilling and setting of concrete anchors.

L. The electrical vaults must be designed and constructed in accordance with all applicable

NEC, NESC, City of Austin, and Austin Energy requirements.

M. Property Owners will be required to grant the necessary easements and agreements to

cover Austin Energy's operational requirements, and liability requirements

N. Customer must contact AE Distribution Metering Operations or Inspections to request the

spot location of metering equipment and other metering and meter location information.

Transformer Vault Construction Standards

A. For planning purposes only, the following at-grade transformer vault construction standard

drawings (plan and elevation views) are available from the AE Network Design. For more

information, contact AE Network Design.

1. 120/208V, up to 2,500 amp maximum demand

2. 120/208V, 2,500 to 5,000 amp maximum demand

3. 277/480V, up to 2,000 amp maximum demand

4. 277/480V, 2,000 to 4,000 amp maximum demand

5. 277/480V, 4,000 to 6,000 amp maximum demand

6. 277/480v, 6,000 to 10,000 amp maximum demand

7. 277/480v, 10,000 amps or above maximum demand.

B. The Customer is responsible for contacting AE Network Design in order to work out the

details for each vault. When finalized, AE Network Design will generate construction plans

and send them to the Customer.

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General Vault Inspection Requirements and Details

A. Inspection Requirements. Call the Network Design business unit for the following

inspections and information:

Vault Floor

Ensures proper installation of a grounding conductor and

oil reservoir location. The inspection must be completed

prior to any backfill or concrete being placed over

grounding conductor.

Primary Trench,

Manholes and

Pull-boxes

Ensures that all requirements are met as specified by this

Design Criteria and the Network Design

business unit.

AE Network Design must inspect all primary trenches,

pull-boxes, and manhole locations and depths prior to

backfilling.

Final Vault Ensures that all requirements of the National

Electrical Code, National Electrical Safety Code, and

AE requirements.

B. General Vault Details. Vault construction details as follows are available from the AE

Network Design business unit. For more information, contact AE Network Design.

1. Customer Bus Stub Into Vault (Detail #1715-010)

2. Ventilation Opening (Detail #1715-060)

3. Ventilation Fire Damper (Detail #1715-065)

4. Doors (Detail #1715-045 and 1715-030)

5. Oil Reservoir Grate (Detail #1715-)

C. Standard Vault Details. For planning purposes only, the following vault construction

details are available from AE Network Design. For more information, contact AE Network

Design.

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Network Area Map

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December 12, 2023

DISTRIBUTED GENERATION INTERCONNECTION

Section 1.12.0 provides requirements for interconnecting customer-sited electric generation assets to the

Austin Energy distribution system. Additional guidance on the interconnection process for various size

Distributed Generation facilities are detailed on the Austin Energy website at www.austinenergy.com

. On

the AE website, this guidance can be located by clicking on Contractors -> Electric Service Design and

Planning -> Distribution Interconnection Guide.

General Requirements for Installation of Distributed Generation (DG) and

Distributed Energy Resource (DER) Systems

An important differentiation for all solar PV projects is the requirement of an Austin Energy PV meter. For

all residential and most commercial properties (exception: Shared Solar), the PV meter shall be installed on

the customer’s side of the existing billing meter. DG/DER installations that do not involve solar PV do not

require a PV meter. No electrical loads shall be connected on the solar side of the PV Meter, with the

exception of residential energy storage system (ESS) equipment installed with solar, equipment needed to

facilitate solar production, or with written approval from Austin Energy. Where the system serves standby

loads and the isolation point is in the inverter, then a 2nd PV Meter is required. All PV production must be

metered prior to delivery to a load or the grid. Refer to the requirements below and to the Distribution

Interconnection Guide for instances of how the PV meter will affect solar PV system installation

requirements.

Homeowner exemptions are NOT allowed for interconnected solar projects.

The following equipment shall be grouped: Directory Plaque, Main Service Disconnect, Billing Meter, PV

Meter, Main PV AC Disconnect, and ESS Main Disconnect (if applicable). When this is not practical,

exceptions can be requested by contacting AE Solar Inspections. Ask for a meter variance form if the PV

Meter must be placed in an alternate location.

Installation of Directory Plaque

A directory plaque of DG/DER disconnects and sources on site, including contact information, shall be

provided as per NEC Article 705.10. Reference also Section 1.9.1.7 of this Design Criteria for formatting

and attachment requirements.

A. Where an ESS is installed, a directory plaque shall be installed by the ESS equipment if the

equipment is not grouped.

B. For utility-side interconnections, a directory plaque shall be installed at the point of interconnection,

at each disconnecting means, and on the roof (by the PV array).

Installation of Overcurrent Protection

For interconnections using a step-up or step-down transformer, OCPD must be within 10 feet for both

primary and secondary sides of a transformer. These cases are rare. The bonding conductor shall always

match the largest neutral in the transformer.

Installation of PV Meter

An Austin Energy PV Meter is required for all new solar PV installations. AE will install a watt-hour meter.

For general metering requirements, refer to Section 1.9.0. Refer also to NEC Article 110.26 for working

clearances.

A. All energy produced by the PV system must be metered before serving any loads, except for:

Residential ESS equipment, loads needed to facilitate solar production, or with written approval by

Austin Energy.

B. Residential PV systems are allowed to serve standby loads where the isolation point is in the

inverter, but a 2

PV Meter is required to be placed between the inverter and the standby load

panel. This is to ensure proper billing and crediting for the customer’s energy consumption and PV

production.

C. Meter enclosures are to be installed with neutral broken (isolated) in PV Meter can and Main PV AC

Disconnect.

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December 12, 2023

D. Meter enclosures shall be installed over flat or near level ground. Enclosures shall not be installed

over points of egress for garden story window wells or recessed drainage areas.

E. Refer to the Distribution Interconnection Guide, Section C, Figure 1 for an example of a simplified

Solar PV installation. Contact AE Distribution Metering Operations for any clarification. Final

determination of meter type and configuration shall be made by AE Distribution Metering

Operations.

F. If an instrument-rated (CT) meter is required, the instrument-rated CT meter inspection must be

completed before the final electrical inspection is requested. Contact AE Distribution Metering

Operations Dispatch (AEDMODispatch@austinenergy.com

) for PV and CT inspection. To review or

assess any service requirements and metering equipment needed for the project, contact AE

Distribution Metering Operations (

AEDistributionMetering@austinenergy.com).

G. All solar PV interconnections require smart meters. Solar customers may not participate in smart

meter opt-out.

H. For PV installations >1MW:

a. The DG facility owner will need to refer to ERCOT website for more information.

Http://www.ercot/com/services/rq/re/dgresource

b. AE shall provide the necessary EPS meter for interconnection to the AE system

Grounding and Bonding

A. Equipment Grounding Conductors to meet #6 copper AWG minimum through the PV and ESS

disconnects.

B. Neutral must be broken (isolated) in the main PV AC disconnect and the PV Meter to allow for

testing, Service rated equipment is required (no wire nuts). Exceptions can be requested by

contacting AE Solar Inspections.

Installation of PV AC Disconnect

A. A manual load break disconnect switch with visible blades shall be provided at the customer's DG

service point to provide a separation point between the customer's electrical generation system and

the AE electrical utility system.

B. For solar PV systems, the main PV AC disconnect shall be installed on the solar side of the PV meter

so that the meter can remain energized while the PV system is disconnected. For 480V systems, an

additional disconnecting means is required between the PV Meter and the interconnection point

(see diagrams B-5 and B-6 in Appendix B of the Distribution Interconnection Guide).

C. All enclosures shall maintain 3-foot circle radius of distance from gas meters, regulators, relief

valves, and electrical apparatuses, or minimum separation distance required by gas service

provider.

D. The disconnecting means shall be readily accessible to AE personnel at all times and be capable of

being locked in the open position with an AE padlock and should not be locked by the owner.

Installation of Inverters

A. Solar PV inverters must be on the approved list published by the California Energy Commission

(CEC) on its website

https://www.energy.ca.gov/programs-and-topics/programs/solar-equipment-

lists.

B. Inverters used with energy storage systems shall be listed for utility interaction.

C. Non-solar inverters may not be installed on the solar side of the PV Meter, with the exception of

ESS inverters.

Installation of ESS Disconnects

For Energy Storage Systems (ESS), at least one lockable, visible blade DC disconnect is required for

first responders on external DC conductors between the battery and the inverter (not required for self-

contained systems). Additional disconnects may be required in accordance with NEC 706.15. ESS

disconnects are required to be installed within 5 feet of the main panel. Check with the local Fire

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Department for additional requirements. A. Additional labelling required for ESS Main Disconnect and

Main Service Panel: WARNING ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM ON SITE: ESS DISCONNECT AND MAIN

BREAKER IN MAIN SERVICE PANEL MUST BE OFF FOR WHOLE HOME ELECTRIC SHUTOFF. B. For

inverter-integrated ESS, a lockable, visible blade AC disconnect is required for first responders on self-

contained systems when used in a backup application. Additional disconnects may be required in

accordance with NEC 706.15. ESS disconnects are required to be installed within 5 feet of the main

panel and in sight of the battery, and before the backup panel.

Installation of Raceways

A. PV communication wire is not permitted inside metering equipment.

B. Solar conductors (both AC and DC) run internal to a structure are required to be in metallic cable or

raceway, and must be labeled every 10 feet.

C. For utility-side interconnections, all conduit containing PV output conductors must be labeled “Line

Side”. This label shall be affixed to the PV circuits, and written in permanent paint inside the CT

enclosure, if applicable.

Installation of Energy Storage Systems

A. ESS plans shall be sealed by a Professional Engineer licensed in the state of Texas.

B. Where an ESS provides partial home backup, a label shall be affixed to the main panel that reads:

THIS ENCLOSURE CONTAINS FEED THROUGH CONDUCTORS THAT MAY BE ENERGIZED WHEN THE

DISCONNECT IS DE-ENERGIZED.

C. PV system shall be operational at the time of inspection and be able to demonstrate full

functionality.

D. Where ESS are installed in garages (on sidewalls or front wall), one or more bollards must be

installed to prevent vehicles from making contact with each ESS unit.

E. Installation of ESS inside a dwelling unit is not allowed.

Installation of Solar PV Array

A. Plans must be sealed by a Professional Engineer licensed in the state of Texas when: Modules are

not mounted parallel to the roof surface (e.g., tilt-up), extend past the existing roof, are built on a

new and separate structure (e.g., ground-mount), are installed on a commercial building, or where

solar roof tiles are being installed. If the customer is located inside City of Austin Full- or Limited-

Purpose jurisdiction, a building permit shall also be required in these scenarios. Please see

Distribution Interconnection Guide for additional detail.

B. All roof penetrations must be flashed.

Where a PV aggregate panel is installed, a label shall be affixed to the panel that reads: PV AGGREGATE

PANEL: DO NOT ADD NON-SOLAR LOADS.

Utility-Side Solar Interconnections

This is where the DG/DER system is electrically connected directly to the Austin Energy System, i.e. on the

line side (ahead) of the revenue meter. Utility-side interconnected systems (not on the Downtown Network)

of ALL sizes must:

A. The point of interconnection for the solar conductors shall be one of the following: a. At the

transformer serving the site. For sites that are master metered at the transformer, a new

transformer may be built ahead of the existing one in order to establish the utility-side

interconnection, but will require a written exception from Austin Energy. b. At a service distribution

enclosure located between the billing meter and transformer. A new service distribution enclosure

may be built for this purpose. c. In the modular metering bank (for facilities that have one), on the

line side of the main disconnect.

B. If the point of interconnection is the transformer: a. For pad-mounted: The solar conductors shall

be terminated at the point of service. b. For pole-mounted: Where the point of service is a

weatherhead, the contractor shall be responsible to construct a new riser for the solar conductors.

The contractor will be responsible to install a separate weatherhead for these conductors, and AE

will connect it to the existing weatherhead to make the final interconnection. Where the point of

service is a pull box fed from a secondary riser, the solar conductors shall be brought into the pull

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December 12, 2023

box to make the final interconnection.

C. If the point of interconnection is a service distribution enclosure: a. Enclosures must be solid and

lockable with a full-size barrel lock, to be provided by Austin Energy. AE will lock the enclosure with

an AE-supplied lock after the final inspection passes. b. Enclosures shall conform to the

specifications listed in the Section 1.8.5. c. The customer will own this equipment and will be

responsible for installing and maintaining it. d. If the customer requires access to the enclosure

after it is locked, they must contact AE Revenue Protection.

D. Where installing a distributed generation (DG) system that will interconnect ahead of the AE meter,

submit an approved Distributed Generation Planning Application (DGPA) with the ESPA (see section

1.4.0 for ESPA submittal). If the DG system subsequently changes, a new DGPA and new ESPA

must be submitted.

E. Where customer-installed underground work includes conduit for interconnection of a solar system,

AE Solar Inspections must also perform an inspection in addition to and in coordination with AE's

civil and electrical inspections.

Interconnection of DG/DER Systems on the Downtown Network

A secondary-connected customer must not back feed to the downtown network grid. Customers that cause

the network protector to trip open due to back feed shall provide a solution to mitigate any future

unintentional trips caused by customer back feed.

Permission to Operate

The customer SHALL NOT have permission to operate electrical generating equipment in parallel with the

AE electrical system until the installation has passed all inspections, with the exception of on-site system

testing required to ensure readiness for inspection. For solar PV systems that do not already have a PV

meter, AE Distribution Metering will conduct a site visit to install this meter after the final inspection has

passed. The customer has permission to operate the system once the meter is installed.

SMALL CELL INTERCONNECTION

Procedures and guidelines for the provision of Austin Energy electric service to Small Cell installations shall be

in accordance with Austin Energy Design Criteria and specific requirements as determined by AE Design.

Section 6 of the Utilities Criteria Manual (Austin Energy Pole Attachments) implements City Code Chapter 15-7

pertaining to the use of Austin Energy distribution and street lighting infrastructure by providers of cable

television, telecommunication, and certain other data or communication services, including wireless service

who possess the right by virtue of city, state, or federal law to access and operate on electric utility

infrastructure. Contact the Pole Attachment Services business unit for more information.

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TRANSMISSION AND SUBSTATION REQUIREMENTS

This subsection documents the requirements for development that occurs within 100 feet of Austin Energy’s

transmission and substation assets. The requirements of this section are not applicable to Distribution

facilities, which are detailed in other sections of this document.

Introduction

Transmission and Substations

Transmission lines and Substations are components of the electric power delivery system. Simply put,

they are the link between generation (power plants) and distribution (your electric service). This is

illustrated in the diagram below:

Transmission lines and distribution lines have a similar function and can look somewhat similar. The

main difference between transmission and distribution is the voltage – at AE most distribution facilities

operate at 12,500V (Volts), while transmission operates at 69,000V, 138,000V, or 345,000V.

Transmission lines use a higher voltage to carry power greater distances with less power loss. The

higher voltage means that transmission assets are generally larger – poles are taller and wider, and

the wires are spread further apart. Refer to the following images and the Wire Guide below for

guidance on which lines are distribution, transmission, and third-party facilities.

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Austin Energy Design Criteria

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Why are There Different

Requirements for Transmission?

Austin Energy, like most utilities, has different

requirements for transmission lines than it

does for distribution lines. The main reason for

the different requirements is that transmission

lines operate at a higher voltage and require

greater clearances for safety and reliability.

Economical transmission lines typically have

much taller structures and longer spans than

distribution, which means that the wires can

move due to wind, weather conditions, and

current in the wires. This wire movement must

be accounted for in determining the required

transmission line clearances, whereas there is

minimal wire movement on distribution

circuits. See diagram to the right, showing

deflected wire positions.

The longer span lengths in transmission lines

also result in much larger variations in the wire

sag. “Sag” is the drop in the wire between

two supporting structures. Sag varies over

time, and even throughout the day, depending

on the ambient weather conditions, and the

heat generated from the current in the wire.

The sag one observes on a transmission line is

most likely not the maximum sag that the line

is designed for, which may be caused by ice

accumulation on the wires, or the wire

operating at its maximum capacity and

temperature. Clearance calculations must take

into account the maximum sag conditions on

the line to ensure safe clearances under all

possible operating conditions.

Since transmission lines serve as a main

arterial for power flows, unanticipated outages

on a transmission line can affect a large

number of people and are difficult to restore in

a timely manner. By contrast, distribution

circuit outages affect a much smaller number

of customers and can typically be restored

much faster.

Due to the critical nature of transmission lines,

unimpeded access to the lines must be

maintained in order to allow AE to make

emergency repairs as quickly as possible. The

equipment needed to perform work on

transmission lines can also be

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December 12, 2023

much larger and heavier than what is needed for distribution lines.

Requirements for development in the vicinity of distribution lines are covered in other sections of this

document. Development in the vicinity of distribution is very common, as nearly all properties require

distribution lines to deliver power. Development near transmission lines is much less common as they

only connect generation to substation, or substation to substation. Austin Energy currently owns and

operates nearly 12,000 miles of distribution lines, and by contrast, just over 600 miles of transmission

lines. Even though they are less common, some properties are still affected by transmission lines.

Properties Affected by Transmission Lines

Generally speaking, if a transmission line or a transmission easement is not located on a property, the

property is most likely not affected by transmission lines. If a proposed development is not within 100

feet of the nearest transmission line wire, it will not be affected. If a proposed development is within 100

feet of the nearest transmission line wire, then Austin Energy’s engineering staff must evaluate and

determine the required clearances, accounting for structure deflection, wire blowout, and insulator swing.

Austin Energy also evaluates proposed development in regard to access, vegetation, and its potential

effect on the integrity of the structures and AE’s ability to maintain and operate the transmission line.

Substation Requirements

Electrical substations are typically constructed on parcels owned by Austin Energy, and as such, do not

typically create limitations for development on adjacent properties. There are some exceptions, as

discussed below. Substations often have multiple transmission and distribution lines entering/exiting

them. The requirements for those facilities must also be met, as detailed in other sections of this

document

Required safety clearances must be maintained to energized facilities within the substation. Substations

are typically constructed in such a way that no additional electrical clearances are required beyond the

property line. However, this isn’t always the case, therefore Austin Energy needs to review any proposed

land development that abuts an AE Substation. Of particular concern are trees or other vegetation

planted near the property line that can grow over the property line, or tall buildings constructed adjacent

to the substation property line.

Site drainage must not negatively impact the substation property, either by draining onto the substation

site or by preventing natural drainage away from the substation site.

Excavation near a substation that could cause a structural or stability issue for the substation should be

limited. Any proposed excavation greater than 1 foot in depth, within 25 feet of the substation property

line must be reviewed and approved by Austin Energy. Large vehicles and heavy equipment often move

throughout the substation, and any wall, excavation, or subsurface installation must be designed to

support these heavy loads.

Fences must be electrically isolated from substation fences. If a fence needs to connect to a substation

fence, a 10-foot, non-conductive isolation panel must be installed between the two fences.

Austin Energy must maintain 24-hour access to the substation. Access for large vehicles and large

equipment is required. Any proposed development that would limit access to the substation is not

permitted. Where required, Austin Energy may obtain an access easement to ensure access to the

substation is maintained.

Property owners will be responsible for any outages or damage at Austin Energy substations caused by

the development. This includes but is not limited to damage or outages caused by

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excavation, or from conductive objects that may fall or blow into the substation.

Transmission Lines Owned by Other Entities

Not all transmission lines located in the Austin area are owned by Austin Energy. Other utilities, such as

the Lower Colorado River Authority, have transmission facilities in the Austin area. If your property is

affected by another utility’s transmission or distribution lines, you will need to coordinate with them to

determine what is acceptable, as their requirements may be different than Austin Energy’s.

Transmission Interconnection Requirements

The requirements for third parties to interconnect with the Austin Energy transmission system are

provided in the Austin Energy Facility Connection Requirements document, which is available on Austin

Energy’s website. Go to www.austinenergy.com

and search for “facility connection requirements”.

Transmission Review

Upon request, Austin Energy can review subdivision/site plan packages to provide feedback on the necessary

requirements for easements, clearance, access, and other potential issues prior to formal submission through

the land development application process.

Austin Energy can provide the necessary clearances required from its transmission facilities, accounting for

structure and wire movement for the variety of required loading conditions, using Austin Energy’s engineering

software, LiDAR survey data, and computer models of the line. Austin Energy has performed aerial LiDAR

surveys on all of its transmission assets. This provides accurate survey data showing where Austin Energy

structures and wires are located. However, it does not provide information on property boundaries. Unless a

survey is provided that shows the property boundaries in relation to the location of the transmission

infrastructure, it can be difficult to provide accurate clearance information from the property boundaries. When

no property boundary information is available, AE will typically use Travis County Central Appraisal District

(TCAD) parcel boundaries and may have to include an additional buffer to account for inaccuracies in the TCAD

data. To receive the most accurate and least restrictive determination, the developer should provide a survey

of the parcel showing the transmission line, including structure and wire locations. Preferably, this data can be

provided electronically in native format, so it can be merged into the transmission line model for the quickest

and most accurate determination of the required clearances.

Subdivisions and site plans will also be reviewed in terms of their effect on access and compliance with Austin

Energy landscaping requirements to ensure the proposed development will not cause harm to transmission

infrastructure or other potential issues.

It is important for a developer to obtain this information early in the site development process, so that no time

is wasted designing improvements that may not be permitted.

CAD File Requirements

Surveys or plans for proposed development (site plan, grading plan, landscape plan, etc.) shall be

provided in georeferenced AutoCAD or Drawing Exchange Format (DXF) files. Georeferenced electronic

files must use the State Plane Coordinate System (NAD83, Texas Central 4203, US Survey Feet). Files

must be in the World Coordinate System (WCS) and only include base files, no xrefs should be attached.

AutoCAD files must be in Version 2019 or earlier.

Provided surveys and site plans must show all existing easements and property boundaries, and any

existing Austin Energy facilities (structures, guys, conductors, etc.).

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Safety Clearances

Permanent Clearance Requirements

Clearance is the air gap required between the energized wire, in its deflected position, and another object.

The minimum allowable clearance values can be found in Section 23 of the NESC. Clearance

requirements are a function of, among other things, the voltage of the line. Higher voltages require

higher clearance values. Austin Energy includes small adders on top of the NESC clearance values, in

order to provide a buffer to allow some survey and construction tolerances. The buffers used are based

on guidance from the “Design Manual for High Voltage Transmission Lines” published by Rural Utilities

Service of the US Department of Agricultural, RUS Bulletin 1724E-200. Given the risk involved, and the

number of variables affecting the clearance, including these additional buffers is prudent to ensure the

safety of the general public and Austin Energy staff. Additional checks as recommended in the RUS

bulletin are also done to ensure safety under all potential operating conditions.

The required clearance values vary depending on the nature of the object to which the clearance is being

checked. The required clearance envelope for a transmission line is a complicated, site-specific, three-

dimensional shape that cannot be easily published in a simple table or diagram. When clearance values

are needed, a developer should contact Austin Energy as soon as practical so that AE can evaluate the

specific location and provide the required clearance(s).

Proposed grade changes underneath the line may negatively impact the vertical clearance and may be

restricted. If a grade change is made that results in the line (transmission, distribution, or third-party

attachments) not having adequate vertical clearance, the owner/developer is responsible for any costs for

the work required to address this issue, including but not limited to replacing the supporting structures

with taller structures.

Working Clearance

Strict compliance with Texas laws and OSHA rules is mandatory. Refer to the Texas Health & Safety

Code, Chapter 752 and the following paragraphs for more information.

OSHA publishes rules that govern how closely workers and their equipment can get to energized electrical

equipment, including power lines. Individuals working in the vicinity of energized electrical equipment

must ensure that their work complies with the OSHA regulations.

The following list provides some of the most commonly-applicable OSHA Rules:

OSHA 29 CFR 1910.333(c) – Working on or near exposed energized parts

OSHA 29 CFR 1926.416(a) – Protection of Employees

OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1400 – Cranes and Derricks in Construction

OSHA 29 CFR 1926.451(f)(6) – Clearance between scaffolds and power lines

For easy reference, the following summation of the OSHA Regulations are provided:

1910.333(c)(3)(i) unqualified persons and conductive objects (tools) and 1926.451(f)(6) scaffolds shall

maintain the following clearances:

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Voltage,

Nominal

(kV)

Required

Clearance

(ft)

12.5

138

11.33

345

15.33

1926.1400 – Cranes and Derricks (Option 2) – Make sure that no part of the equipment, load line, or load

(including rigging and lifting accessories), gets closer than 20 feet to the power line, by implementing

measures specified in OSHA 129.1400(b)

OSHA references the possibility of having a power line de-energized in order to perform work in the

vicinity of a line. This may be possible for a distribution circuit, but due to the critical nature of

transmission lines, Austin Energy is not able to take a transmission circuit out of operation to

accommodate land development near a transmission line.

Transmission Lines with Distribution Underbuild

Depending on the configuration of the lines and where they are located relative to the property or

proposed development, the required clearances may be controlled by the underbuilt distribution line,

rather than the transmission line. For lines that have both distribution and transmission, the

requirements of both types of lines must be met. Distribution clearance requirements are detailed in

Section 1.10 of this document.

Access

AE must maintain 24-hour, unimpeded access to its transmission lines in order to respond quickly to an

unscheduled outage. Large equipment such as cranes, bucket trucks, and drill rigs are needed to maintain and

make necessary repairs to transmission facilities. In order to accommodate access for these vehicles, and

prevent damage to the property, the following accommodations must be made.

A. Access Corridor – 25 feet wide, level access corridor all along the length of the ROW, with 16

foot minimum vertical clearances. Facilities paralleling a public roadway can generally use the

public roadway to achieve this access.

B. Working Area Around Structures – No above ground obstructions within 100 feet from the edge

of a transmission structure, unless otherwise approved by Austin Energy.

C. Gates – Fences (temporary or permanent) that cross the ROW must provide a gate to allow 24-

hour access by AE equipment and personnel. The gate must be a minimum of 16 feet wide.

Depending on the angle between the fence and the ROW, a 32-foot gate may be required. The

gate must have an AE lock, and can accommodate multiple locks in series if the property owner

needs to maintain access through the gate. Gates in proximity to structures need to be offset

far enough to allow through access for AE vehicles.

D. Grade – the property owner is not required to grade the property to accommodate AE access,

unless grade changes in the ROW are going to be made. If so, no slopes greater than 8% (4.6

degrees) will be allowed. Grade changes in the ROW are subject to other requirements as well

to ensure that structures are not compromised, and that clearance requirements are maintained.

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E. Curbs – Curbing installed in the ROW must be lay-down curbs in order to ensure that access for

AE equipment is not impeded. Austin Energy will not be responsible for damage to curbing

placed in the easement.

F. Vehicle Weight – Anything installed in the ROW (pavement, bridges, subsurface infrastructure,

walls, etc.) must be designed to support a 46,000 lb tandem axle (5-foot spacing). Austin Energy

will not be responsible for damage done to facilities placed in the easement or to facilities placed

outside the easement (such as walls) that are damaged a result of AE equipment traversing the

easement.

G. Drainage Areas/Detention Ponds – Drainage areas and detention ponds are not allowed in the

transmission ROW since they can restrict access along the length of the ROW.

H. Off-ROW Access – Some existing easements include rights to access the easement from other

parts of the property. When an existing easement does not include these rights, but either

existing or proposed developments prohibit access to or along the easement, an additional off-

ROW access easement may be required. Off-ROW access corridors are subject to all of the same

requirements as on-ROW access corridors.

I. Prohibited Crossing Areas – some areas of the ROW may already prevent continuous access

along the ROW. This may be due to natural (creeks, cliffs, drainage areas, etc.) or man-made

features (drainage, walls, etc.). When such an obstruction is present, a turn-around area or

other off-ROW access may be necessary. Due to the large turning radius of some of the

equipment used, turn-around areas can be quite large. These issues are very site-specific and

need to be addressed on a case-by-case basis.

Structural Integrity

Structural Design Standards

The structural design of transmission structures is also covered in the NESC in sections 25 and 26. Other

documents such as the RUS manual (Bulletin 1724E-200), and the American Society of Civil Engineers

(ASCE) Manual of Practice 74, “Guidelines for Electrical Transmission Line Structural Loading” provide

guidance for additional load cases and best practices. There are a variety of other design manuals and

standards that are also used in the structural design of transmission structures and foundations. Austin

Energy needs to ensure that its transmission structures remain in compliance with the NESC and other

industry standards and are not compromised while in service.

Excavations and Drainage

In order to preserve the integrity of the foundations for AE’s structures, AE generally limits excavation and

grading in the vicinity of transmission structures, including guys and guy anchors. As a rule of thumb,

excavations that are more than 25 feet from the edge of a transmission foundation, will generally not

cause an issue. Excavations within 25 feet of a transmission foundation that are more than 1-foot deep,

need to be evaluated by AE. A number of factors, including the depth and width of the excavation, the

duration it will be open, whether it is a permanent or temporary grade change, the distance from the

foundation, and the orientation relative to the loads on the foundation, can affect whether or not a

proposed excavation would be detrimental to the transmission structure foundation. Also, changes in

grade that will negatively impact the drainage in the vicinity of the structure and potentially lead to

corrosion issues at the base of the structure will not be allowed.

Protection for Vehicular Traffic

To provide for the safety of the traveling public and to protect Austin Energy transmission assets from

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damage, a minimum distance of 5 feet must be maintained from the face of curb to the face of structure

for typical low speed roadways. If this distance cannot be maintained, collision protection devices may be

required, if approved by Austin Energy. Distances larger than 5 feet may be required on high speed roads

(highways and main arterial roadways). The installation and cost of any required collision protection

devices will be the responsibility of the property owner.

Environmental Contamination

Various contaminants, including water, chemicals, paint and dust, can cause issues on a transmission

facility. Issues such as corrosion of the steel supporting structure, or flashovers caused by excess dust on

the insulators or in the air between the phases of the line can be problematic. For these reasons, some

developments that may result in an excess application of these contaminants may be restricted. It is also

the responsibility of the property owner and contractor to control dust in order to minimize contamination

of wire and insulators during construction. Any subsequent cleaning or electrical outages caused by dust

from a construction project will be charged to the property owner and contractor.

Vegetation

Vegetation near electric facilities presents operational and fire risks and can impede access to maintain and

inspect the facilities. Austin Energy typically performs vegetation clearing on a five-year cycle. When

vegetation is removed, enough is removed to ensure safe operation of the line for the next five years. Austin

Energy trims vegetation to ensure sufficient clearance from energized facilities but may also trim vegetation

that impedes access, including along off-ROW access corridors.

For proposed developments, no trees may be planted in a transmission easement. Outside of the easement,

any trees planted within 50 feet of an existing or proposed transmission facility (structure, guy, conductor,

etc.), must be a utility-compatible tree. A list of utility-compatible trees can be found in Appendix F of the

Environmental Criteria Manual.

Any vegetation planted within a transmission easement is at risk for damage during AE’s inspection and

maintenance of the line. Shrubbery must not obstruct access to the base of the transmission structures.

Climbing vegetation on electric facilities is prohibited. Austin Energy is not responsible for damage to

vegetation planted within the easement.

Compost and mulch are prohibited above the concrete foundation of transmission structures, including guy

anchors.

No water sprinklers are allowed within 25 feet of a transmission structure, including guy wires and guy

anchors.

Easements for Transmission Facilities

Austin Energy obtains easements to ensure that it has the property rights necessary for the safe construction,

operation, maintenance and access to its transmission facilities and to ensure that necessary transmission

facility clearances are maintained. These easements cover the physical location of the transmission facilities,

the area needed to access its facilities, areas needed for construction, operation and maintenance of AE’s

facilities, and areas that, if developed, would violate required electrical clearances or interfere with access to AE

facilities. If transmission easements that were obtained in the past are not adequate to provide these

protections, then AE works to expand existing easements or obtain additional easements.

Transmission easements include metes and bounds descriptions of the areas subject to easement rights, and

AE’s easements do not typically include rights to the remainder of the property (blanket, ingress or egress

rights). If off-ROW access to transmission facilities is needed, then AE will typically

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acquire separate access easements. If access to property is needed for temporary use during the construction

or reconstruction of a transmission facility, then AE may acquire a temporary construction easement, rather

than a permanent easement.

When a property is subdivided, AE shall require a new or expanded easement to cover: 1) an existing

transmission facility in an existing easement that is inadequate to meet current AE easement requirements; 2)

a planned new transmission facility; or 3) space required by planned upgrade to an existing facility.

Any additional easements proposed to be co-located within a transmission easement, either crossing or

paralleling, must be reviewed and approved by Austin Energy in advance (including trail easements).

While land located within a transmission easement may be labeled as greenspace or open space, it cannot be

labeled or dedicated as parkland.

An owner or developer may not place, erect, construct or maintain the following within an electric transmission

easement:

A. any permanent structures including, but not limited to, habitable structures such as homes,

mobile homes, garages, or offices,

B. any structure of any kind in such proximity to the electric transmission or distribution lines,

poles, structures, towers, or appurtenant facilities that would result in a violation of the

required clearances in effect at the time the structure is erected, nor

C. any structures including, but not limited to, fences, storage sheds, drainage, filtration or

detention ponds which would impair Austin Energy’s access to the transmission easements or

its lines, poles, structures, towers or appurtenant facilities in the easements.

D. fire hydrants cannot be located inside the transmission easement and must be a minimum of

20 feet from any transmission structure.

E. septic Systems and drain field systems are not allowed in electric transmission and substation

easements.

Grounding

High voltage lines create an electric field that can induce a voltage in ungrounded metallic objects, including

buildings, large vehicles and equipment, and fences. This is referred to as induction. The amount of voltage

that builds up is a function of the length of the object paralleling the line and is most commonly observed on

long metallic fences that parallel a transmission line. Longer fences can be broken up into smaller sections by

installing non-conductive isolation panels at various intervals along the length of the fence. Proper grounding

of metallic objects in the ROW is important to mitigate this issue.

AE discourages placing metallic fences in transmission line ROW. If it is necessary to use a metallic fence, or if

there is an existing metallic fence, many of the potential issues can be mitigated through proper grounding of

the fence, and proper placement of isolation panels. Austin Energy does not provide guidance, or

recommendations for what grounding needs to be provided on a landowner’s metallic fence. AE recommends

against the not to use of a metallic fence in or near transmission line ROW. If you do use a metallic fence, it

should be made sure that it is properly grounded. Austin Energy does not provide guidance, or

recommendations for what grounding needs to be provided on a landowner’s metallic fence. In order to

determine what constitutes “proper grounding”, you may need to consult an electrical engineer to do a

grounding study, accounting for the specific site conditions including local soil resistivity.

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Metallic fences that are roughly perpendicular to a transmission line, generally do not pose issues with

induction, but they can present issues in the case of a dropped conductor or a lightning strike, particularly if

they are near a structure. While it is not a common occurrence, an equipment failure can result in an

energized conductor dropping to the ground. If an energized conductor drops on a metallic fence, it can

energize the fence and carry the electricity a great distance, causing potentially negative impacts far away

from the fallen conductor. Proper grounding of metallic objects in the ROW is important to mitigate this issue.

Because the height of the poles, it is fairly common for transmission structures to be struck by lightning.

Transmission structures are grounded in order to carry the impacts of lightning strikes or other line faults to

the ground. The impact is quickly dissipated through the earth over a short distance from the pole, limiting the

area of exposure. However, if there is a metallic fence in the vicinity of the pole, the stray voltage from the

lightning strike or line fault can travel through the fence and have impacts a long way from the transmission

structure. Proper grounding of metallic objects near transmission structures is important to mitigate this issue.

Construction Requirements

A pre-construction safety meeting between Austin Energy and the construction contractor is required 48 hours

before commencement of construction. If cranes or scaffolding will be used on the project, Austin Energy must

be notified so the appropriate AE staff can attend the pre-construction safety meeting.

Construction crews must comply with OSHA requirements to maintain safe clearances for workers and

equipment in the vicinity of energized power lines. Austin Energy can provide the voltage of its facilities and

can determine the required OSHA clearances. Do not assume the voltage of the line. If you are unsure,

contact Austin Energy for clarification. Transmission lines cannot be de-energized for the purpose of nearby

construction, even on a temporary basis. See Section 1.14.3.2 for more information.

Barricades must be erected 10 feet from any transmission structures (including guys and anchors) within the

area of construction. Warning signs must be placed under any overhead electric facilities to notify of the

overhead electrical hazard.

Do not store construction materials or place spoils within the transmission easement. Throughout the duration

of construction, Austin Energy must maintain 24-hour access to and along the easement. If a security gate is

placed around the project that encompasses the site, Austin Energy will need to have a lock that they can use

to access the site.

Austin Energy requires that any tower crane or other temporary structure or equipment in the vicinity of a

transmission facility be located in such a way as to eliminate the possibility of falling within 20 feet of the

transmission facility if the crane or other temporary structure were to fail. If maintaining this distance is not

possible, AE may be able to grant an exception, but would require a license agreement with a substantial

liability insurance policy requirement.

Relocation of Transmission Facilities

While it is possible to relocate a transmission facility to accommodate development, it is costly and time-

consuming, so it is not done very often. If a landowner/developer requests the relocation of a pole or a line,

the landowner/developer would be required to pay all of the costs necessary for Austin Energy to do the work.

The relocation work cannot negatively impact any adjacent properties. Because the structures are generally

spaced as far apart as practical, moving a single structure could have a cascading effect, requiring the

replacement/addition/relocation of other structures along the line, in order to maintain the required vertical

and horizontal clearances.

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Placing a transmission line underground is significantly more expensive than placing distribution facilities

underground. Underground transmission work is roughly ten times the cost of overhead transmission. There

are also operational impacts to undergrounding transmission that can increase the time and cost to restore

power in the event of an issue. For these reasons, Austin Energy will not place transmission facilities

underground to accommodate private development.

If you anticipate the need to relocate a transmission line or structure, contact AE as soon as practical, because

transmission relocation projects can easily take years from start to completion.

Pipelines

Electric fields from power lines have been associated with issues with steel underground pipelines. Pipeline

owners are responsible for all induced potential mitigation and grounding required for their pipelines.

The top of a gas pipeline must be buried 5 feet below grade and built to withstand a 48,000 lbs. tandem axle

load.

Pipelines must be located a minimum of 25 feet from any transmission structure.

Where possible, a gas pipeline may intersect the transmission line easement at 45º or 90º.

Pipelines require a license agreement with Austin Energy prior to being placed in Austin Energy’s easements.

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DISTRICT ENERGY AND COOLING

District Energy and Cooling Overview

District energy and cooling meets customers’ heating/ventilation/air-conditioning (HVAC) and other

requirements through a network of underground equipment (including pipes and fiber conduit) serving multiple

buildings in a particular service area. A district cooling plant distributes chilled water to customers’ buildings

through a set of heat exchangers in the customer’s mechanical room. District energy facilities provide

electricity or steam to customers. Austin Energy owns and operates district cooling facilities in the Central

Business Zoning District, and the North Burnet/Gateway (NBG) Zoning District and district energy and district

cooling facilities in the Mueller Planned Unit Development area. Austin Energy may expand into additional

areas to meet customer demand. District energy and cooling provide benefits to developers, building owners,

building occupants, and the general public by reducing initial capital investment costs for development,

lowering operational expenses, increasing building space for other uses, and reducing environmental impacts

by shifting electricity usage to times when renewable resources are available. District energy and cooling can

also support green building certification. Austin Energy encourages customers proposing land development

projects in or near the areas described above to contact Austin Energy’s District Energy and Cooling business

unit.

District Energy and Cooling Safety and Clearance Requirements

Any proposed construction projected to come within three feet of district energy or district cooling equipment

(usually piping and fiber conduit) must meet the following safety requirements:

(1) Construction must maintain the following minimum separations from district energy and district

cooling equipment:

a) 24 inches below;

b) 24 inches right and left; and

c) 36 inches above.

(2) District energy and cooling equipment must be identified on all sheets in a building plan and

profile.

(3) Work must be potholed to locate district energy and cooling piping and fiber conduit at

proposed crossings and at 300-foot intervals along drill path if the proposed construction

method is directional drill and the running line is parallel to a district energy or district cooling

facility.

(4) The Austin Energy District Energy and Cooling business unit must be contacted 24 hours before

exposing or crossing district energy or district cooling equipment.

(5) When work related to a project within three feet of district energy or cooling equipment

requires the discharge of district cooling product, the following requirements apply:

a) The product must be analyzed prior to discharge from the system as it contains

chemicals.

b) There must be no penetrations of district cooling equipment. District cooling product

must be discharged only to a sanitary wastewater system and only with Austin Energy

written approval.

c) If penetration of district cooling equipment occurs unintentionally, the Austin Energy

District Energy and Cooling business unit should be contacted immediately.

d) Contractors must, at their own cost, repair damage to district energy and cooling

equipment according to Austin Energy specifications.

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(6) Covers and lids for district energy and cooling underground vaults, valve risers, and air

releases shall be maintained at final surface grade and shall not be obstructed or covered

over.

(7) Tree root barriers shall be placed on all sides of the planting zone where district energy and

cooling pipes and/or services are located. Root barriers shall be installed between the tree

roots and district energy and cooling infrastructure. The root barrier shall be no closer than 3

feet from district energy and cooling infrastructure. In no circumstances shall district energy

and cooling infrastructure be placed within the planting zone.

(8) District energy and cooling Submittal Review Board must review and approve landscaping

plans before it can be placed above its infrastructure. Plans shall include the plant type and

root ball information.

District Energy and Cooling Modifications

District Energy and Cooling infrastructure shall conform to DEC Standard and Special Specifications

https://www.austinenergy.com/go/dec. If relocations are required, then easement acquisitions will need to

be addressed if moving into private property. Easement information is located in DEC’s Customer

Connection Requirements https://www.austinenergy.com/go/dec.

(1) Project Owner is responsible for all design and construction costs to relocate existing district

energy or district cooling infrastructure.

(a) Connecting to existing district cooling pipes shall be done with hot taps and line stops.

(b) Only one modification of the district energy or district cooling distribution loop can

occur at one time.

modifications. A district energy and cooling inspector must be onsite for any

modification of their infrastructure.

(2) Chilled water service cannot be shut down for any modification.

(3) Project Owner will pay for hydraulic study to analyze effect of relocating district energy and

cooling pipes. Pipes cannot be relocated without written approval from District Energy and

Cooling.

(4) All modifications to district cooling loops must occur between mid-November to end of February,

except with written approval from District Energy and Cooling.

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR AUSTIN ENERGY LAND DEVELOPMENT

REVIEW

A land development application must:

(1) Include an electronic, georeferenced AutoCAD (version 2016 or newer) drawing, to scale and with north

arrow, that shows the following:

i. Clearly delineated locations and extents of all public and private easements proposed including, but not

limited to, electrical, gas, water, sewer, telecommunications, and drainage;

ii. Clearly delineated locations of all existing facilities including, but not limited to, electric transmission

and distribution structures, guys, anchors, and transformers;

iii. Clearly delineated locations of all existing and proposed permanent structures showing footprint and

height;

iv. Clearly delineated final proposed topology that includes grades, grade changes, floodplains, and

detention ponds; and

v. Clearly delineated locations of property lines and building setbacks.

(2) Demonstrate sufficient clearances for existing and proposed electric facilities and other electric system design

and safety requirements described in this Manual or any other applicable Austin Energy design specifications,

guides, standards, and City Code.

(3) Demonstrate sufficient electric utilities easements to accommodate existing electric facilities and all electric

facilities estimated to serve the development and that grant AE sufficient property rights to restrict

development that would impede access to AE facilities. If current easements do not sufficiently cover existing

and estimated facilities, then additional easement must be dedicated by the current owner to cover such

facilities, and owner must, at owner’s expense, provide AE with metes and bounds descriptions of all

easement areas (easement areas to be determined by Austin Energy) for easement preparation. Any

necessary electric facility relocation will be performed at the applicant’s expense.

(4) Demonstrate that the development will not limit the ability of Austin Energy personnel to access and maintain

current and proposed electric facilities.

(5) Identify one point of service and one service voltage unless more than one point of service or service voltage

is allowed under the exceptions found in this Manual or the allowance is approved by Austin Energy.

(6) Demonstrate approximate location and appropriate space for electric facilities, desired point of electric

service, and provide projected load required for electric service.

(7) Comply with all other Austin Energy requirements, specifically including without limitation Austin Energy

safety requirements, found in this Manual or in any other applicable Austin Energy design specifications,

guides, standards, and City Code.

(8) Contain plat notes or provides for easement terms as follows:

i. Austin Energy has the right to prune and to remove trees, shrubbery and other obstructions to the

extent necessary to keep all electric facility easements clear.

ii. The subdivision owner must provide Austin Energy with any easement and access required, in addition

to those indicated, for the installation and ongoing maintenance of overhead and underground electric

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

facilities to provide electric service to the development and will not be located so as to cause the site to

be out of compliance the City of Austin Land Development Code.

iii. The owner is responsible for installation of temporary erosion control, revegetation and tree protection.

In addition, the owner is responsible for the performance of any required initial tree pruning and tree

removal for vegetation that is within ten feet of the center line of the proposed overhead electrical

facilities designed to provide electric service to this project. The limits of construction for the owner’s

project shall include Austin Energy's work area.

iv. The property owner is responsible for maintaining clearances required by the National Electrical Safety

Code, National Electrical Code, OSHA regulations, City of Austin rules and regulations and Texas state

laws pertaining to clearances when working in close proximity to overhead power lines and equipment.

Austin Energy will not render electric service unless required clearances are maintained. All costs

incurred by AE as a result of an owner’s failure to maintain required clearances will be charged to and

shall be the responsibility of the property owner.

v. If a transmission easement (existing, proposed, or prescriptive) is on the property, then Owner may

not place, erect, construct or maintain the following within an electric transmission easement:

1. any permanent structures, including, but not limited to habitable structures such as homes,

mobile homes, garages, or offices;

2. any structure of any kind in such proximity to the electric transmission or distribution lines,

poles, structures, towers, or appurtenant facilities that would constitute a violation of the

National Electrical Safety Code in effect at the time the structure is erected;

3. or any structures, including but not limited to, fences, storage sheds, drainage, filtration or

detention ponds which would impair Austin Energy’s access to the transmission easements or its

lines, poles, structures, towers or appurtenant facilities in the easements.

vi. If a transmission easement (existing, proposed, or prescriptive) is on the property, then the property

owner and owner’s agents must provide Austin Energy with 24-hour access across the property to the

transmission easement for the installation and ongoing maintenance of electric facilities.

vii. If a transmission easement (existing, proposed, or prescriptive) is on the property, then all roads and

driveways which cross or parallel the transmission easement must be built to sustain not less than

48,000 lbs. tandem axle load within the easement to ensure safety and access by Austin Energy and

their contractors.

viii. If a transmission easement is on a property subject to a future site plan or construction, all

construction activity or grading within the easement must be coordinated with Austin Energy prior to

commencement, and AE must be provided with a minimum of a 48-hour notice prior to the

commencement of construction or grading. Call Andrew Perez at 512-505-7153 to schedule a meeting

48 hours prior to commencement.

(9) Label any land within a transmission easement (existing, proposed, or prescriptive) as parkland or propose

any land within a transmission easement (existing, proposed, or prescriptive) to be dedicated as parkland.

Land development projects that will be served by an electric utility other than Austin Energy must follow the

applicable electric utility process of that utility for design and construction of electric facilities and other requests

related to electric service.

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

GLOSSARY

Apartment(s) and

Apartment Building(s)

A single residential unit consisting of five or more individual residential

dwellings or multiple buildings or residential units with multifamily

dwellings in each building. (This term does not apply to “apartment

house” as that term is used in Section 1.9.4 regarding submetering for

residential and commercial properties.)

Attachment Height(s)

The distance above final grade or other accessible surface to the

location of the one-point rack (or the lowest mounted rack of a three-

or four-point rack). The lowest mounted rack shall be installed at the

service drop attachment height and within 12 inches below the

weatherhead.

Building

Common foundation and common roof.

BSPA

The Building Service Planning Application is the document submitted by

the builder or customer to AE’s Development Assistance Center reviewer

that provides the specifics of the customer’s request to develop a certain

piece of property. An electronic copy of the BSPA may be obtained from

the Development Services Department website under the Residential

Building Review section.

City (COA)

The City of Austin or any employee or designee authorized to represent

the COA.

Civil Work

Civil work refers to underground conduit, service-boxes, pull-

boxes, duct-structure, manholes, pad-mounted equipment

foundations (pads), etc.

Commercial

Any building, structure, or facility that does not meet the definition of

“Residential Dwelling, Residential Unit, Condominium, or Apartment”.

Condominium

An apartment building in which the apartments are owned by

individuals, but all the land and other property are owned jointly.

Construction Standards

Detailed criteria and instructions for the construction and installation of

Austin Energy facilities.

Costs: Excess Facilities

AE provides the facilities for permanent basic standard electric service

based on the estimated steady state electrical demand load as

determined by AE Design from the Customer’s connected load

information. Excess facilities is anything more than what AE would

provide to serve the estimated load.

Current Transformer

Customer

Any present or prospective user of electric service or the developer,

architect, engineer, electrical contractor, builder or other person

representing a present, prospective, or future user of electric service

from Austin Energy.

Customer’s Electric

Equipment

Equipment that is owned and maintained by the customer.

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

Demand

Demand is a measure of electrical power magnitude, not total energy

usage. Demand is used in two contexts in this Design Criteria – 1)

metering demand which is the power used by the Customer averaged

over a 15-minute time interval and 2) electrical demand which is the

actual power flowing in the AE facilities. (These values will be

determined by AE Design for the purposes of sizing AE facilities and

may differ significantly from the Customer’s undiversified total

connected load which is the sum total of manufacturer’s name

plate/equipment watt or ampere ratings for all of the Customer’s

electrical load.)

Metering Demand is usually expressed in kilowatts (kW) and is the

Customer’s load registered by the AE demand meter.

Electrical Demand for AE design purposes is the steady state

maximum load expressed in kilovolt-amps (kVA) or in amps depending

upon how the specific AE electrical facilities in question are rated used

to design and size AE facilities.

Peak Demand for AE design purposes is instantaneous peak electrical

demand (also expressed in kilovolt-amps or amps) used to design and

size AE facilities for Customer equipment having a high short-term

and/or intermittent demand load characteristics (such as experienced

during motor starting or from electrical welding equipment).

Distribution Electric facilities energized or capable of being energized at voltages of

less than 60Kv phase-to-phase.

District Energy and

Cooling Equipment

Any equipment used, designed to be used, or installed for use, to

conduct, control, convert, distribute, generate, measure, provide,

rectify, store, transform, or transmit chilled water as part of Austin

Energy’s chilled water systems, including fiber optic cable and

associated conduit.

District Energy and

Cooling Business Unit

The Austin Energy business unit that operates District Energy and

Cooling equipment to produce, generate, transmit, distribute, sell, or

furnish energy, steam or chilled water to end-use customers.

District Cooling Plant A centralized Austin Energy plant supporting Austin Energy’s chilled

water system.

District Energy Plant A centralized Austin Energy plant providing steam and/or electricity to a

specific customer and operated by the Austin Energy District Energy and

Cooling business unit.

Electrical Equipment or

Electric Equipment

Any equipment used, designed to be used, or installed for use, to

conduct, control, convert, distribute, generate, measure, provide, rectify,

store, transform, or transmit electrical energy as part of AE’s electric

transmission and distribution system.

Electrical Facilities or

Electric Facilities

Any line, equipment, or supporting structure used or capable of being

used to carry, transmit, control, distribute, generate, or store electrical

energy.

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

Electric Service Planning

Application (ESPA)

The Electric Service Planning Application (ESPA) is the document

submitted by the Customer to Austin Energy that gives AE the specifics

of the Customer’s request and (if applicable) the requirements of the

Customer’s total connected load associated with the Customer’s request

for electric service.

Fee Schedule

The AE fee schedule can be found at

https://austinenergy.com/ae/rates/approved-rates-schedules

Full Current Neutral The neutral conductor(s) must have the full current-carrying capacity of

the largest energized conductor(s) and be installed from the Customer’s

point of service to the Customer's service disconnect(s) at the service

equipment. The neutral conductor must be properly marked and

grounded.

Group/Grouped To put together in one place or location (Ex.: meter and disconnect are to

grouped together in a common location).

High Voltage

601 volts or higher

High Accuracy CTs CTs that have an accuracy class of .15 or .15s (required for Austin Energy

billing purposes)

Infrastructure

Infrastructure as it applies to the AE system refers to everything (poles,

structures, transformers, primary & secondary conductors, down guys,

conduit, manholes, equipment pads, equipment, etc.) except AE

services and AE metering equipment.

Instrument Rated

Metering

Any metering that requires other instruments, such as current or voltage

transformers, to meter the load.

Large Commercial and

Large Residential

Metering

Any service at or above a main disconnect or combination of main

disconnects of 350 amps single phase or 225 amps three phase, primary

metering, fire pumps, or special metering.

Line Extension Policy

See Section 1.3.12

Main Disconnect

A mechanical switching device used for connecting and disconnecting

the Customer’s electric equipment from the AE electric supply system.

Main Line Distribution

Main line distribution is any overhead or underground distribution line

that contains a major electrical feeder that supplies power to minor

laterals. The major electrical lines are larger-sized cables such that a

major overhead line is typically 795 MCM, and a major underground line

is typically 1000 MCM in 5-inch conduit. Some variations may occur on

the exact cable and conduit size for main line.

Major Project

A major project is defined as a project pertaining to the extension,

expansion, or improvement of the AE distribution primary voltage

feeder/network infrastructure system.

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

Man-Hole

A flush-mounted (installed to finished grade) concrete (or other)

enclosure (as specified by AE Design or AE Network Design) used for

installing and splicing AE primary voltage cables and/or other

equipment (as specified by AE Design).

Mobile Home, Modular

Home, and

Manufactured Home

Parks

A tract of land divided into lease spaces or lots and occupied by mobile

homes, modular homes, and/or manufactured homes owned or leased

by occupants.

Network Area

The underground and vault-only electric service area including all

of downtown Austin and some of the immediately adjacent areas

as shown by the Network Area Map in Section 1.12.4.

National Electrical Code

(NEC)

The most recently adopted NEC as modified by the Austin City Council.

National Electrical Safety

Code (NESC)

The national code that provides requirements in the design and

construction of overhead and underground electric supply facilities on

the utility-side of the point of service.

Occupational Safety and

Health Administration

(OSHA)

OSHA is the federal agency responsible for protecting worker health and

safety and developing OSHA codes (i.e., regulations) to ensure safe

working environments.

Point of Attachment

The physical location where AE will attach its infrastructure conductors

(service conductors) to the customer's structure or meter loop pole

attachment.

Point of Service (POS) Unless otherwise specified in the Agreement for Electric Service (Letter

of Agreement), the point of service is the point (weatherhead, meter

socket, service distribution enclosure, pull-box, or other approved by AE

Design) at which AE's and Customer's conductors are connected or

terminated. Contact AE Design or AE Spots & Conduit for questions

about the location of the point of service. AE shall make all connections

at the point of service.

Pull-box

A flush-mounted (installed to finished grade) concrete (or other as

specified) enclosure (typically 36 inches or 48 inches or as specified by

AE Design or AE Network Design) used for installing and splicing AE

primary voltage cables and secondary and service lateral cables.

Rack(s),

One-point Rack(s)

A noncombustible, nonabsorbent insulator secured to the building or

structure, using a minimum 1/2-inch diameter threaded bolt with nut

and washers, for attachment of the AE’s service-drop conductors. The

rack(s) installation shall withstand 400 lbs of overhead service-drop

conductor tension. AE SHALL FURNISH AND THE CUSTOMER SHALL

INSTALL AND MAINTAIN THE RACK(S). (See “One-point Rack” section

1.18.0 Appendix and Exhibits)

Readily Accessible In accordance with 29 CFR 1910.399, Readily accessible is defined as

"capable of being reached quickly for operation, renewal, or inspections,

without requiring those to whom ready access is a requisite to climb

over or remove obstacles or to resort to portable ladders, chairs, etc."

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

Residential Dwelling

Residential dwelling is a general term that includes mobile homes,

modular homes, manufactured homes, and buildings containing one-

family, two-family (i.e., duplex), or multifamily (three or more)

residential units.

Residential Unit

A residential unit normally refers to one residential structure. For the

purpose of providing electric service, AE will treat duplexes, triplexes,

and quadruplexes as a single residential unit except that each of the

residential dwellings shall be individually metered unless approved by

AE for submetering, and all the meters must be grouped at the AE

designated location. Apartments are residential units that house five

or more residential dwellings.

Safety Clearances A minimum distance between a building or other object or structure

that is needed to prevent the risk of risk of death, bodily injury, or

property damage from occurring due to contact with or proximity to an

energized electric facility.

Secondary Voltage

600 volts or lower

Self-Contained Metering A meter that can meter the load on its own without the need for additional

equipment.

Service(s)

Service is a general term and is used in three contexts in this Design

Criteria. AE is an electrical energy service utility, so the first use of the

term service refers generally to the electrical energy AE supplies to the

Customer. The second usage refers to the actual service installation --

the AE service conductors for delivering electric power from AE’s supply

system to the point of service (such as the weatherhead, meter socket,

service distribution enclosure, pull-box, transformer, and primary meter

enclosure). And finally, term “service” is used to refer generally to the

service conductors on the source or load side of the AE meter up to the

Customer’s disconnect (either AE- or Customer-owned).

Service Area

The area served by AE generally includes the area within the corporate

limits of the City of Austin, the general metropolitan area, and certain

adjacent rural areas. Inquiries concerning the availability of service and

adequacy of service should be made through AE Design.

Service-Box

A flush-mounted (installed to finished grade) concrete (or other as

specified) enclosure (typically 18 inches or as specified by AE Design)

used for installing and splicing one service lateral (350 kcmil

maximum).

Service Conductors

A general term that refers to the overhead or underground secondary

voltage conductors that are installed from the AE transformer or

secondary conductors to the weatherhead, meter socket, or service.

distribution enclosure.

Service Conduit(s)

The raceway/wireway(s) used to enclose and protect the service

conductors.

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

Service Policy

City of Austin Rate Schedule - Line Extension and Electrical

Switchover Policy (Extension of Service Section)

Defines the AE cost versus revenue requirements for all electric service

extensions and the limited AE obligation to provide nominal or no cost

120/240V single-phase service to small, seasonal, or intermittent

electrical loads (see Section 1.3.11)

Service Required/

Service Need Date

These terms refer to the date that the Customer requests or needs

electric service from AE. It is a tentative date at the start of the process

because this date is always dependent upon the Customer actually

requesting service, which involves setting up an account with AE and

submitting an approved ESPA form with permit # to AE Design, and

completing all the necessary work, permits, and inspections with

enough lead-time before the need date to allow ample time for AE

scheduling and construction. The lead-time needed to schedule crews,

order materials, and complete construction depends on such things as

workload and weather. Contact AE Design for approximate lead-time

information for Customer planning purposes. Note: All permits,

easements, inspections, and AE requirements must be completed

before the project will be scheduled and an actual construction date can

be determined.

Service Distribution

Enclosure (SDE)

Generally used for underground installations for multiple-meter/shell

commercial buildings and for multiple-meter residential buildings. This

is an above-grade enclosure (SDE, junction box, J-Box, or tap-box) that

may be designated as the point of service by AE.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Contact the Development Assistance

Service Center or the COA DSD Building Inspections division for

information and written approval prior to purchasing and installation

of Service Distribution Enclosure.

Service-Only

AE secondary voltage source and capacity are available at the site and

no AE infrastructure construction is required.

Service-Drop

The overhead secondary voltage service conductors from AE’s last or

closest voltage source facilities on the AE distribution infrastructure

(i.e. pole) up to and including the connections to the Customer’s

service conductors located on the exterior finished surface of the

building or structure. The overhead service-drop conductors are

furnished, installed, owned, and maintained by AE.

Service Lateral

The underground secondary voltage service conductors from AE’s last

or closest voltage source infrastructure facility (i.e. transformer, pull-

box/service-box, etc.) to the Customer’s building or structure. The

point of service location determines whether AE or the Customer

furnishes, owns, and maintains the service lateral conductors.

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

Shell Building

A commercial structure (new or existing) with individually metered

tenant spaces that are constructed on a speculative basis with no

definite knowledge of potential Customer usage or electrical load

requirements. (AE may charge the install and remove costs for the

initial interim service until the permanent Customer’s load

requirements can be determined.) See Section 1.5.2.9.

Small Commercial and

Small Residential

Metering

Any service at or below a main disconnect or combination of main

disconnects of 350 amps single phase or 225 amps three phase.

Speculative Building

A building constructed for rent, lease, or sale for which the permanent

Customer’s electrical load and usage characteristics are unknown. The

initial and interim electrical service to speculative buildings is treated

as temporary service. See sections 1.5.2.9 and 1.7.1.

Spot (verb) Identification of the point of service and Austin Energy’s requirements

at the point of attachment. Spots are performed by the Spots and

Conduit group.

Standard Electric Service

Standard electric service is a single source, single-phase, radial,

overhead service provided on wood poles, except in the Network Area.

Structure A combination of materials to form a construction for occupancy, use or

ornamentation, whether installed on, above or below the surface of a

parcel of land, provided the word “structure” shall be construed when

used herein as though followed by the phrase ”or part or parts thereof

and all equipment therein” unless the context clearly defines a different

meaning.

Substation A substation is an AE facility that changes voltage levels between

Transmission (69kV, 138kV, 345kV) and Distribution (12.47kV, 34.5kV)

equipment or serves as a switching point to connect multiple

transmission lines.

Townhouses

A single-family dwelling unit constructed in a row of attached units

separated by property lines and with open space on at least two sides.

Treated Pole

A treated pole shall meet the requirements of the American Wood

Preservers' Association’s latest edition (such as creosote, pressure-

treated, and similar substances).

Transmission Electrical facilities energized or capable of being energized at voltages

of 60kV phase-to-phase or higher.

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

Vault

A securable concrete room or enclosure installed by the Customer on the

Customer’s property (typically within the footprint of the Customer’s

building or structure). The vault is locked with an AE lock, and accessible

only to AE personnel (as specified by AE Network Design or AE Design).

It is used for housing only AE equipment, transformers, and other as

specified by AE Network Design or AE Design.

(See Section 1.12.0 for general requirements for Network Area vaults

and contact AE Design for distribution area vault requirements.)

VT Voltage Transformer

Austin Energy Design Criteria

December 12, 2023

APPENDIX AND EXHIBITS

Figure 1-11. Instrument Rated (IR) Meter Socket(s) Enclosure (Typical for Pad-

Mounts)

Austin Energy Design Criteria

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Figure 1-12. One-Point Rack (Typical)

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Figure 1-13. Portable Meter Loop for Temporary Overhead Construction Service

(Typical Installation)

Austin Energy Design Criteria

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Figure 1-14. Portable Meter Loop for Temporary Underground Construction Service

(Typical

Installation)

Austin Energy Design Criteria

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Figure 1-15A. Meter Loop for Permanent Overhead Service Installation (Typical

Residential

Installation)

Austin Energy Design Criteria

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Figure 1-15B Meter Loop for Permanent Overhead Service Installation (Residential-

Typical Installation)

Austin Energy Design Criteria

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Figure 1-16A. Meter Loop for Permanent Underground Service Installation

(Residential/Commercial -

Typical Installation)

Austin Energy Design Criteria

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Figure 1-16B. Meter Loop for Permanent Underground Service Installation

(Residential/Commercial -

Typical Installation)

Austin Energy Design Criteria

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Figure 1-17. Under-Eaves Service Installation (Residential – Typical Overhead

Installation)

Austin Energy Design Criteria

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Figure 1-18. Through-Roof Service Mast Installation (Residential – Typical Overhead

Installation)

Austin Energy Design Criteria

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Figure 1-19. Underground Service Installation (Residential – Typical Installation)

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Figure 1-20. Meter Loop for Permanent Overhead Service Installation (Commercial –

Typical

Installation)

Austin Energy Design Criteria

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Figure 1-21. Under-Eaves Service Installation (Commercial – Typical Installation)

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Figure 1-22. Through-Roof Service Mast Installation (Commercial – Typical

Installation)

Austin Energy Design Criteria

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Figure 1-23. Underground Service Installation (Commercial – Typical Installation)

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Figure 1-24. Two-Meter Permanent Overhead Installation (Typical Installation)

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Figure 1-25. Two-Meter Permanent Underground Installation (Typical Installation)

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Figure 1-26. 3 to 12 Meters for Permanent Overhead or Underground Installation

(Typical Installation)

Austin Energy Design Criteria

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Figure 1-27. 13 to 18 Meters for Permanent Overhead or Underground Installation

(Typical

Installation)

Austin Energy Design Criteria

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Figure 1-37A Responsibilities from The Point of Service

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Figure 1-37B Responsibilities from the Point of Service

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Figure 1-37C Responsibilities from the Point of Service