No space in main panel for backfeed breaker

[SunsUp]

Removing the dead front confirms that main panel is full (see pics) and so there is no room to install a backfeed breaker. Main panel has a 200A rated buss and 200A main service disconnect. What would you suggest as the most practical way to install a PV backfeed breaker and codes relevant to the process?label r3.jpgCBs 1 r.jpgCBs 2 r.jpgCBs 3 r.jpg

[Robert1234]

You might should consider putting in a subpanel and moving some of the lighter loads over there to as to allow you to put the desired breaker on the exisiting panel.

[Mike90250]

There are some half width breakers in models, and you can pull several normals, install halves, and gain some space - depending on local inspectors. Can't do that with high amp loads.

OR, you can try doubling up some lightly used circuits. but don't try 2 wires into one breaker, have to use a split bolt.

[SunsUp]

Thanks for both your comments. The panel looks very busy with duplex and quads already installed in most spaces. Which breakers would you suggest combining? Possible scenario: Could the AC breakers be part of a quad that included the micro and gen lite breaker to free up enough space for the PV Backfeed breaker?

[peakbagger]

I am surprised you can get that many quads in there. I would hate to see the insides of the panel. This is a perfect candidate for replacing the entire panel and putting in adequate breakers or putting in subpanel. You may even get an insurance break for putting in a new panel and most would sleep better by not having such a overloaded panel in operation.

[Robert1234]

A complete panel replacement would be optimal, but may well be out of the time & monetary budget. That's why I was thinking a subpanel. I don't think I've ever seen a panel packed that tight before. Wire up the subpanel, then when ready simply make the tie in to the main. You minimize your cost, minimize your downtime, and improve your safety.

[Sunking]

Or take advantage of NEC Tap Rules in article 240.21

[SunsUp]

All good suggestions, but the funds are not available for a main panel upgrade or even adding a sub panel. With that being said we are trying to determine the best way to create room for the PV backfeed breaker as the 25A back feed breaker will easily comply with the 120% rule. The problem (for this owner’s budget) is available space and not code. The owner is comfortable with his current situation (loads/breakers) in main panel as it has been this way for a while and we are not attempting to add more loads but add a supply breaker on the opposite end of the bus from the utility connection. So are there any suggestions on which breakers you would combine and why? Thanks Again. Also, the AHJ in this area can be difficult on supply side taps.

[Sunking]

All good suggestions, but the funds are not available for a main panel upgrade or even adding a sub panel. With that being said we are trying to determine the best way to create room for the PV backfeed breaker as the 25A back feed breaker will easily comply with the 120% rule. The problem (for this owner’s budget) is available space and not code. The owner is comfortable with his current situation (loads/breakers) in main panel as it has been this way for a while and we are not attempting to add more loads but add a supply breaker on the opposite end of the bus from the utility connection. So are there any suggestions on which breakers you would combine and why? Thanks Again. Also, the AHJ in this area can be difficult on supply side taps.

Again. Or take advantage of NEC Tap Rules in article 240.21