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2021 Position Statement <br /> <br /> <br />Load Control Receiver Change-outs <br /> <br />BACKGROUND <br />Load control switches allow utilities to remotely control end-use loads and control levels of <br />electrical flow to economize electric use during peak times, saving both the utility and the <br />customer money while promoting efficient electricity use. In Minnesota, much of this equipment <br />has reached its usable end of life. Utilities replace load controller receiver technology routinely <br />as equipment becomes obsolete. A typical replacement installation only takes about 15 minutes <br />and is usually completed by an electrician. The decades-long practice had been to consider <br />replacements that do not require new circuit wiring as a minor repair of equipment; thus, <br />exempting the installation from the permitting and inspection process. Unfortunately, this long- <br />term practice of exempting load switch replacements from the permit process has recently seen <br />a reversal in Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) practice. <br /> <br />CURRENT STATUS <br />Currently, there is a lot of inconsistency. Some inspection departments are providing guidance <br />that no permits are required, while other utilities/contractors have been informed by DLI and <br />local inspection departments that they are violating state law by not drawing a permit and having <br />the new switch inspected. Some have even been told that their license could be revoked. This <br />new and inconsistent interpretation causes difficulties and questions for both utilities and <br />electrical contractors alike. <br />This change from past business practices serves little, if any, purpose while increasing costs and <br />paperwork; creating delays awaiting inspections; and causing confusion as to when the <br />equipment must be sealed and when it can be used prior to inspection. The situation is <br />beginning to cause some utilities to rethink the value of such equipment, which may lead them <br />to forego installation. The lack of this new equipment could have the adverse effect of <br />increasing peak time use, as well as potentially increasing the need for additional generation, <br />transmission, and distribution infrastructure. <br /> <br />REQUESTED ACTION <br />Ideally DLI will reverse permit and <br />and revert back to the commonly accepted practice of allowing the replacement of load <br />management switches without the need to have a permit drawn and an inspection <br />made. However, if the issue is not resolved administratively, MMUA will work with the Minnesota <br />3131 Fernbrook Lane North, Suite 200, Plymouth, MN55447-5337·763.551.1230 ·763.551.0459 Fax ·www.mmua.org <br />386 <br />