AC Service Panel Max Solar Backfeed

[DavidF2]

Hi,

I plan to add solar to my home and have a question about how many amps I can backfeed into my AC service panel using Net Metering. I know NEC 705.12 (D) (3) limits this to 120% of the service panel busbar capacity minus the main circuit breaker rating.

I have an old GE panel from the ‘70s, Model number TM1410MUF that has a 100A main breaker, so at first glance it looks like I can only have a 20A solar breaker. But, the label on the door says “Main Ratings 120/240V A-C 3—WIRE”, then below that it says “125A Max SEE MAIN CIR. BKR. RATING”.

Is this saying my busbar rating is 125A, and so would I be able to install a solar breaker (1.2 x 125) – 100 Main = 50A? Note I only need 30-40A.

Thanks!

 

[SWDweller]

The amount of power you can feed to the POCO is limited by YOUR POCO not the NEC or another governing body. Call the POCO and ask them.
Depending on where you live you might want to reconsider this action.
California has just created NET 3.0 or so it is being called which creates a pay back period of over 20 years for Californians.