Transfer switch generator#

A simple use case would be one where a commercial or industrial building has two electrical meters but a single electrical system. A utility-to-utility transfer switch is used when electric consumers within the facility require the option to switch from one service to the other. Utility-to-utility transfer switches are applicable when a facility is equipped with multiple utility service feeds. For example, a data center’s backup power supply must become instantly available in the event of a power outage.

Transfer switch generator#

In some applications, specific requirements need to be catered for when installing a generator and transfer switch. Many types of businesses, industries and government services also rely on power generators, which also require a transfer switch.

It’s not just home generators that require a transfer switch.

This is one of the reasons why most electric codes mandate the use of a transfer switch when a residential generator is connected to the home’s electrical panel. This means utility workers can be sure that they will not get a shock from someone’s home generator when they are working on overhead lines. Transfer switches prevent electricity travelling in the wrong direction, such as from a home generator into the power grid. Transfer switches can be used to switch between grid service and a generator between different generators or between different grid service entrances. In all cases, it is important to properly isolate the electricity generation sources when they are not in use and ensure that transitions from one supply to another are conducted in a safe and controlled manner.īroadly speaking, transfer switches are required in three categories of use cases. Some industrial users have sophisticated electrical systems with multiple on-site generators and grid access points that can connected to different electrical loads. Many university campuses and factories also have their own on-site power plants, but occasionally switch to the local grid for power. Many homes and businesses are equipped with a standby generator that is used in the event of a power outage. Transfer switches are devices that allow the safe connection or disconnection of different sources of electricity to an electric load.