Service Standards

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2-10-2020 Revision of the CNP Service Standards Book – (Effective Date 3-16-2020)
1. Company Offices– Updated Service Center Information – (Page 5).
2. Section 300 – Types of Services, 301 Single Phase - (Page 20).

Updated 480V to include 480/240V 3 Wire.
3. Article 403 – Clearances - Updated Illustration 5B - (Page 26).

Removed twisted conductor over house.
4. Article 405.1 – Residential Service Outlet Rack – (Page 31 and 32).

Updated Minimum Requirements and Alternate Design. Also, updated Illustration 36.
5. Article 408 – Service Entrance Conductors - (Page 34).

Revised paragraph. Add “no less than 36”
6. Article 413 – Underground Service Laterals in Overhead Areas – (Page 37 & 39).
Revised Illustrations 7 and 8. Add 18” Max to the distance between the secondary and the
top of the weatherhead. Also, add “to be specified by CNP”. For Illustration 7, add 3 phase
secondary bus.
7. Article 418 – Meter Installation – 320A Meter Can (Page 52).

Revised Illustration 13A and 13B – 3 Phase/3 Wire Service – Add Grounded Conductor.
8. Article 418.4 – Pre-Wired Modular/Ganged Type Meter Banks - (Page 53).

Revised paragraph – “CNP will not allow modular/ganged type meter bank installations
where each service is individually owned or where there is a lack of common ownership”
9. Article 418.41 – Blank Covers for Modular Meter Banks - (Page 53).
New Article – “Blank covers may be used to prevent access to meter sockets while meter
is not in place. Where used, it SHALL MEET MANUFACTURE’S
SPECIFICATIONS AND BE FURNISHED BY THE CUSTOMER with
company approval.”
10. Article 419.5 – Service Cable Tap Box –Multi-Tenant Services - (Page 56).
Revised Paragraph: Added: “Service Entrance conductors must enter
directly into the Service Cable Tap Box”.
11. Article 419.5 – Service Cable Tap Box –Multi-Tenant Services - (Page 58).
Revised Notes: #14 - Removed - “2-hole NEMA”.
12. Article 420.1 – Height of Meters - (Page 58).

Revised Paragraph: Removed Flood requirements.
13. Article 421.8 – Meter Location – Flood Zone - (Page 60).

New Article: Requirements for Meter in flood zones.
New Illustration 39.
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14. Article 423 – Meter Installation Sequence – 480V Self-Contained - (Page 63).
Revised paragraph: Added “FIELD LABELING BY CUSTOMER”. Also, revised
Illustration 34 – Added Field Label Note. “Meter Disconnect` Not Service Equipment”
15. SECTION 400 NOTES: Bonding (Jumper) Conductor - (Page 64).

Revised Paragraph: “A bonding conductor (jumper) shall not be installed on the meter
socket neutral lug. The meter socket neutral lug bonds the meter socket to the grounded
system conductor.”
16. Article 500.6 – Fire Pumps – (Page 67). Revised Paragraph. “Where a Fire Pump
Service is to be individually metered, it shall be served through a C.T. Metered
Service”.
17. Article 502.1 – Service Drop: Requirements – (Page 67, 69 and 70).
Revised Paragraph: Added: “For the Company to provide service, the weatherhead must
face the direction of the service drop”
Revised: Illustration 18. Added Note: K. Also, added “Note: Weatherhead must face the
direction of the Service Drops”.
New Illustration 38.
18. Article 507.2 – Anchorage for Service Drop: Open Wire Drop. – (Page 74).
Revised Illustration 26. Revised Meter bonding. Added Note “D”.
19. Article 508 – Service Entrance Conductors - (Page 75).

Revised paragraph. Add: “but no less than 36”
20. Article 512 – Underground Service Laterals in Overhead Areas – (Page 77 & 79).
Revised Illustrations 22 and 23. Add 18” Max to the distance between the secondary and
the top of the weatherhead. Also, add “to be specified by CNP”. For Illustration 22, add 3
phase secondary bus.
21. Article 513.2 – Instrument Transformer Installation Applications. – (Page 81).

Revised Illustration 24. Revised Meter bonding. Added Note “D”.
22. Article 513.6 – Bus Bar Weatherhead. – (Page 85, 86, and 87).
Revised Illustration 28, 29, and 30 for Wildlife Barriers.
23. Article 513.11 – Meter Equipment Bonding - (Page 89).

Updated bullet points and Revise Illustration 31.
24. Article 514.1 and 514.2 – Methods of Installing Metering Equipment – (Page 90).
Revised Paragraph: Added “24 to 48” on the bottom from finished grade”.
Revised Paragraph: “not be waterproof and not”.
25. Update Service Center Maps – Revised Brazoria/HOC Area and update the
remaining service center areas. – (Page 93-105).
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POWER LINE SAFETY
A foremost concern at CenterPoint Energy is the safety of our customers and employees.
We exercise a great deal of care ensuring that our facilities are safe. But even with our
many precautions, electrical contact accidents have occurred.
REMEMBER, ELECTRIC POWER LINES CAN KILL!
When you are working near power lines or moving tools and equipment (cranes, scaffolds,
derricks, piping, etc.) near power lines, stay alert. The Texas Health and Safety Code,
Chapter 752, prohibits all activities in which persons or equipment MAY come within six
(6) feet of energized overhead high voltage power lines, and Federal Regulations, Title 29,
Part 1919.180(i) and Part 1926.550(a)(15) and 1910.333 require a minimum clearance of
ten (10) feet from power lines. These laws carry both criminal and civil liabilities. In
addition, contractors and owners are legally responsible for the safety of construction
workers under these laws. If you or your company must work near overhead power lines,
contact us at the appropriate service center location (see page 5). We will help you arrange
for the lines to be deenergized and/or moved. Make your work place a safe one, and
remember to LOOK UP AND LIVE near overhead lines. For information on the above or
on electrical safety programs, contact CenterPoint Energy’s Public Safety Department as
listed on page 5.
LAST REVISED 2-10-20
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FOREWORD
Experience has shown that certain standard practices are necessary to assure every
customer of CenterPoint Energy the best possible electric service. In compiling this edition
of Service Standards for the guidance of customers, contractors, electricians,
architects, and engineers, the basic purpose has been to keep them as simple and
nonrestrictive as possible.
These Service Standards supplement and are subordinate to the terms and conditions for
the delivery of electric service on file in the Company's offices. They are also intended to
supplement and not to be in conflict with the current edition of the National Electrical
Code, National Electrical Safety Code, or of any regulatory authority having jurisdiction.
MANY PROVISIONS IN THESE SERVICE STANDARDS DISCUSS THE

COMPANY’S VIEWS, BASED ON APPLICABLE CODES AND ORDINANCES,
CONCERNING THE MANNER IN WHICH CUSTOMER WIRING AND EQUIPMENT
SHOULD BE INSTALLED AND MAINTAINED BY THE CUSTOMER. IN
EXPRESSING THESE VIEWS, THE COMPANY DOES NOT INTEND TO IMPLY
THAT IT WILL INSPECT CUSTOMER WIRING AND EQUIPMENT TO ENSURE
CONFORMITY WITH THESE VIEWS. THE CUSTOMER IS SOLELY
RESPONSIBLE FOR INSTALLING, INSPECTING AND MAINTAINING ALL
CUSTOMER WIRING AND EQUIPMENT.
The updated Service Standards are located on the CenterPoint Energy website at
http://www.centerpointenergy.com/en-us/documents/service-standards.pdf
Paper copies will only be provided upon request.
For service connection issues, please refer to the Turn Down/Unexecutable Codes located
on the CenterPoint Energy website at http://www.centerpointenergy.com/en-
us/Documents/TURN-DOWN-CODES.pdf
In the text, the substantial changes from the previous issue of the Service Standards have been
marked, as this paragraph is, with a vertical line in the left margin.
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COMPANY OFFICES
Customers should contact the nearest Company Office or Service Center listed below
regarding information referred to in the Service Standards. Meter boxes required for
transformer rated installations and service anchorage bolts may be obtained from any of
the Company service centers. Location maps of the Service Centers may be found starting
on page 93.
SERVICE ADDRESS CITY, STATE TELEPHONE Boundary

CENTERS ZIP NO. Map
BAYTOWN 333 Ward Road Baytown, TX 77520 (281) 425-7352 P. 93
(713) 945-4292
BELLAIRE 4300 Bissonnet Blvd Bellaire, TX 77401 P. 94
Ext. 3
BRAZORIA 700 E. FM1462 Rosharon, TX 77583 (281) 595-6170 P. 95
CYPRESS 18018 Huffmeister Cypress, TX 77429 (832) 773-6020 P. 96
FORT BEND 4011 Avenue H Rosenberg, TX 77471 (281) 341-4904 P. 97
GALVESTON 502 27th Galveston, TX 77550 (409) 765-4165 P. 98
GREENSPOINT 2301 Gears Road Houston, TX 77067 (713) 945-4636 P. 99
HARRISBURG 3000 Harrisburg Houston, TX. 77003 (713) 207-4558 P. 100
HUMBLE 10010 F.M. 1960 Rd. W Humble, TX 77338 (713) 945-8936 P. 101
KATY 5431 Highway Blvd. Katy, TX 77492 (281) 391-5104 P. 102
SOUTH
HOUSTON 4700 South Shaver Houston, TX 77034 (713) 945-6970 P. 103
(BLDG. F)
SPRING
3401 Brittmoore Houston, TX 77043 (713) 945-4531 P. 104
BRANCH
SUGARLAND 13300 West Bellfort Houston, TX 77099 (281) 561-2967 P. 105
COMPANY OFFICES
CENTERPOINT
1111 Louisiana Houston, TX 77002 (713) 207-1111 -
TOWER
PUBLIC
4700 South Shaver Houston, TX 77034 (713) 945-6706 -
SAFETY
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CONTENTS
Page
Power Line Safety ........... ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 3
Foreword ............ ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 4
Company Offices ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 5
Table of Contents……………………………………………………………………………….….6-8
Section 100-Definitions Page Article
AMS Meter ......... ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 9 ........... 101
Application for Service ..... ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 9 ........... 102
Company ........... ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 9 ........... 103
Connected Load .. ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 9 ........... 104
Customer ............ ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 9 ........... 105
Customer Extension.......... ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 9 ........... 106
Customer's Installation ..... ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 9 ........... 107
Customer's Service Equipment ....... .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 9 ........... 108
Distribution Lines ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 9 ........... 109
Electric Service ... ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 10 ......... 110
Harmonics .......... ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 10 ......... 111
Manufactured Home ......... ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 10 ......... 112
Meter .................. ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 10 ......... 113
Meter Mounting Devices .. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 10 ......... 114
Meter Box ........... ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 10 ......... 115
Metering Current Transformer Box .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 10 ......... 116
Metering Potential Transformer Box ............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 10 ......... 117
Meter Loop ......... ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 10 ......... 118
Mobile Home ...... ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 10 ......... 119
Modular Home ... ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 11 ......... 120
National Electrical Code ... ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 11 ......... 121
National Electrical Safety Code ..... .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 11 ......... 122
Overhead Distribution Areas .......... .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 11 ......... 123
Point of Delivery ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 11 ......... 124
Rate Schedule Classification .......... .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 11 ......... 125
Retail Electric Provider (REP) ....... .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 11 ......... 126
Service Cable Tap Box ..... ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 11 ......... 127
Service Drop ....... ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 11 ......... 128
Service Entrance Conductor ........... .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 12 ......... 129
Service Lateral .... ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 12 ......... 130
Service Location . ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 12 ......... 131
Service Outlet ..... ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 12 ......... 132
Service Outlet Location and Data Statement . ............. ............. ............................ ............. 12 ......... 133
Transmission and/or Distribution Service Provider (TDSP) ..... ............................ ............. 12 ......... 134
Type of Service .. ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 12 ......... 135
Underground Distribution Areas .... .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 12 ......... 136
Underground Street Network Areas .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 12 ......... 137
Underground Radial Areas ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 13 ......... 138
Underground Residential Distribution Areas ............. ............. ............................ ............. 13 ......... 139
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Section 200 – General Information
Application for Service ..... ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 14 ......... 201
Agreement for Service ...... ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 15 ......... 202
Service Outlet Location and Data Statement . ............. ............. ............................ ............. 15 ......... 203
Change in Customer's Wiring Installation ..... ............. ............. ............................ ............. 15 ......... 204
Change in Location of Existing Service Facilities....... ............. ............................ ............. 15 ......... 205
Attachments to Company's Property ............ ............. ............. ............................ ............. 15 ......... 206
Customer Wiring ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 16 ......... 207
Grounding ........... ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 16 ......... 208
Utilization Voltage ........... ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 17 ......... 209
Energizing of Customer's Service... .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 17 ......... 210
Responsibility for Customer's Installation ..... ............. ............. ............................ ............. 17 ......... 211
Motor Protection Devices . ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 17 ......... 212
Customer Communication or Tone Systems . ............. ............. ............................ ............. 18 ......... 213
Antennas (Radio, Television, Communication, etc.) ... ............. ............................ ............. 18 ......... 214
Customer-Owned Generation Equipment ...... ............. ............. ............................ ............. 18 ......... 215
Electrified Fences ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 19 ......... 216
Section 300 - Types of Service
Single-Phase ....... ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 20 ......... 301
208/120 volt, 3-wire ......... ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 20 ......... 301
240/120 volt, 3-wire ......... ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 20 ......... 301
480 volt, 3-wire .. ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 20 ......... 301
7,200 or 19,920 volt, 2-wire ........... .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 20 ......... 301
Two-Phase .......... ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 20 ......... 302
12,470/7,200 volt, 3-wire . ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 20 ......... 302
34,500/19,920 volt, 3-wire ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 20 ......... 302
Three-Phase ........ ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 20 ......... 303
208Y/120 volt network, 4-wire ...... .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 20 ......... 303
208Y/120 Volt, 4-wire...... ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 20 ......... 303
240/120 volt, 4-wire, delta ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 20 ......... 303
480 volt, 3-wire .. ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 20 ......... 303
480Y/277 volt, 4-wire ...... ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 20 ......... 303
2,400 volt, 3-wire, delta .... ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 20 ......... 303
4,160Y/2,400 volt, 4-wire ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 20 ......... 303
12,470Y/7,200 volt, 4-wire ............ .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 20 ......... 303
34,500Y/19,920 volt, 4 wire ........... .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 20 ......... 303
SECTION 400 - RESIDENTIAL AND SMALL COMERCIAL

SELF-CONTAINED METER SERVICE INSTALLATIONS
General Information ......... ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 21 ......... 400
Services .............. ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 21 ......... 401
Overhead Service ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 21 ......... 402
Service Drop ....... ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 22 ......... 402
Clearances ……… …… ………. …. ....... ............. ............. ............................ ............. 24 ......... 403
Location of Service Outlet ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 29 ......... 404
Grouping Service Outlets . ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 30 ......... 405
Point of Attachment .......... ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 32 ......... 406
Anchorage for Service Drop ........... .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 33 ......... 407
Service Entrance Conductors.......... .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 34 ......... 408
Transformer Installations on Customer's Premises ...... ............. ............................ ............. 35 ......... 409
Temporary Installations .... ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 35 ......... 410
Underground Service ........ ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 35 ......... 411
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Commercial Underground ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 35 ......... 411
Mobile Home Parks .......... ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 35 ......... 412
Underground Service Laterals in Overhead Areas ...... ............. ............................ ............. 36 ......... 413
Underground Service in Underground Residential Areas ......... ............................ ............. 40 ......... 414
Customer Installed Underground Conductors ............. ............. ............................ ............. 40 ......... 415
Service to Apartments, Townhomes or Condominiums ............ ............................ ............. 44 ......... 416
Meter Loops ....... ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 47 ......... 417
Meter Installations ............ ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 48 ........ 418
Methods of Installing Meter Mounting Devices .......... ............. ............................ ............. 53 ......... 419
Height of Meters . ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 58 ......... 420
Meter Location ... ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 59 ......... 421
Meter Pole Installations .... ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 61 ......... 422
Meter Installation Sequence ........... .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 62 ......... 423
SECTION 500 - LARGE COMMERCIAL INSTRUMENT

TRANSFORMER RATED METER SERVICE INSTALLATIONS
General Information ......... ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 65 ......... 500
Services .............. ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 67 ......... 501
Overhead Service ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 67 ......... 502
Service Drop ....... ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 68 ......... 502
Clearance for Service Drop ............ .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 71 ......... 503
Location of Service Outlets ............ .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 72 ......... 504
Grouping Service Outlets . ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 72 ......... 505
Point of Attachment .......... ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 73 ......... 506
Anchorage for Service Drop ........... .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 73 ......... 507
Service Entrance Conductors.......... .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 75 ......... 508
Transformer Installation on Customer's Premises ....... ............. ............................ ............. 75 ......... 509
Temporary Installations .... ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 75 ......... 510
Underground Service ........ ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 76 ......... 511
Commercial Underground ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 76 ......... 511
Underground Service Laterals in Overhead Areas ...... ............. ............................ ............. 76 ......... 512
Meter Installations ............ ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 80 ......... 513
Methods of Installing Meter Equipment ........ ............. ............. ............................ ............. 90 ......... 514
Meter Location ... ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 91 ......... 515
Meter Seals ......... ............. ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 91 ......... 516
Meter Installation Sequence ........... .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 92 ......... 517
Service Center Boundaries ............. .............. ............. ............. ............................ ............. 93-105
Lone Star Notification Center…………………………………………………..……………106
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SERVICE STANDARDS
CENTERPOINT ENERGY
SECTION 100-DEFINITIONS
100 The following is a list of terms and definitions used in this manual.
101 AMS Meter: Advanced Metering System or Smart Meter used for both
residential and commercial services to measure the electric power and
energy supplied to a customer.
102 Application for Service: The agreement or contract between the Company and the
Customer under which Electric Service is supplied and taken.
103 Company: CenterPoint Energy
104 Connected Load: The combined manufacturer's rated capacity of all motors and
other electric powered devices on the Customer's premises, which may, at the will
of the Customer, be operated.
105 Customer: Any individual, partnership, association, firm, public or private

corporation, or governmental agency now being served or hereafter to be served,
using the Electric Service of the Company at any specified location.
106 Customer Extension: Any addition to the Company's existing distribution

facilities required to render Electric Service to a Customer.
107 Customer's Installation: All wiring, appliances, or apparatus of any kind owned
or operated by the Customer on the Customer's side of the Point of Delivery used
in connection with the Customer's ability to take and use the Electric Service of the
Company.
108 Customer's Service Equipment: The necessary equipment and accessories,

located near the point of entrance of supply conductors to a building, which
constitute the main control and means of disconnecting the supply to that building.
This equipment usually consists of a circuit breaker or a switch and fuses.
109 Distribution Lines: The Company's lines located along streets, alleys, highways,
or easements on private property when used or intended for use for general
distribution of Electric Service to Customers of the Company.
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110 Electric Service: The availability of electric power and energy, regardless of
whether any electric power and energy is actually used. The supplying of Electric
Service by the Company consists of maintaining the approximate voltage, phase,
and frequency agreed upon, at the Point of Delivery by means of facilities adequate
for carrying the load which the Company is thereby obligated to supply by reason
of the known requirements.
111 Harmonics: Integer multiples of the fundamental power system frequency (sixty
cycles per second), which have a negative effect on the power system. Harmonics
are generated by the non-continuous manner in which electronically controlled
(non-linear) equipment draws current. See Article 500.1 and 500.2.
112 Manufactured Home: Built on a non-removable chassis (Federal Construction

Safety Standards Act (HUD/CODE) requirement) and designed to be used as a
dwelling, with or without a permanent foundation, when connected to required
utilities. Mobile Homes are defined as manufactured homes in HUD regulations
and the NEC Code also includes mobile homes in their definition of manufactured
homes.
113 Meter: An instrument, or instruments, together with auxiliary equipment, for

measuring the electric power and energy supplied to a Customer.
114 Meter Mounting Devices: The devices owned and furnished by the Customer for
mounting and/or enclosing the Company's self-contained Metering Equipment.
115 Meter Box: A metal box furnished by the Company and installed by the Customer
at the Customer’s expense to house transformer rated meters.
116 Metering Current Transformer Box: A metal box furnished by the Company and
installed by the Customer at the Customer's expense, for enclosing the Company's
metering current transformers where required.
117 Metering Potential Transformer Box: A metal box furnished by the Company
and installed by the Customer at the Customer's expense, for enclosing the
Company's metering potential transformers where required.
118 Meter Loop: The opening in and extension of the Customer's Service Entrance
Conductors provided for installation of the Company's Meter.
119 Mobile Home: A factory assembled structure or structures transportable in one or

more sections that is built on a permanent chassis (integrated frame and axles) and
designed to be used as a dwelling without a permanent foundation where connected
to the required utilities. The metal frame that the house is hauled on is also the
structural floor support of the home and stays as part of the home after installation.
The term Mobile Home includes manufactured homes. The requirements in the
10
NEC treat mobile and manufactured homes the same unless specifically stated
otherwise.
120 Modular Home: Designed, engineered and built in a factory-controlled

environment and then carried in sections by special trucks to a building site where
they are put together by a builder on a permanent foundation, similar to regular
home construction. Unlike mobile homes, modular homes do not have integrated
frames and axles. For the purposes of these Service Standards, CenterPoint Energy
will treat Modular Homes and Developer/Contractor Built Homes the same.
121 National Electrical Code: The current edition of the National Electrical Code
(ANSI/NFPA-70) as published by the National Fire Protection Association.
122 National Electrical Safety Code: The current edition of the National Electrical
Safety Code (ANSI C2) as issued by the Secretariat (IEEE) of the ANSI C2
Committee.
123 Overhead Distribution Areas: The area or areas served by the Company's
overhead distribution system as differentiated from the underground system.
124 Point of Delivery: The point where the electric energy first leaves the line or
apparatus owned by the Company and enters the line or apparatus owned by the
Customer, unless otherwise specified in the Customer's Agreement for Service.
This is not necessarily the point of location of the Company's Meter.
125 Rate Schedule Classification: The classification of the Customer's Electric

Service, the amount of electric power supplied, the rate area and the purpose for
which the Electric Service is to be used.
126 Retail Electric Provider (REP): A person (or company) that sells electric energy
to retail Customers in this state (Texas). As provided in PURA ¶ 31.002(17), a
Retail Electric Provider may not own or operate generation assets. As provided in
PURA ¶ 39.353(b), a Retail Electric Provider is not an Aggregator.
127 Service Cable Tap Box: An enclosure designed with busbars for the purpose of
terminating service entrance conductors from the electric utility point of supply and
for terminating service conductors to individual tenant services.
128 Service Drop: The Overhead Service conductors extending from the Company's
Overhead Distribution System to the Customer's Service Entrance Conductors at
the Point of Delivery.
11
129 Service Entrance Conductors: The wires or bus bars provided by the Customer
extending from the Customer's Service Equipment to the terminals of the Service
Drop or Service Lateral.
130 Service Lateral: The Underground Service conductors between the street and/or
easement, including any risers at a pole or from transformers, and the first point of
connection to the Service Entrance Conductors in a terminal box or Meter.
(Underground Service conductors are owned and maintained by the Customer.)
131 Service Location: Conductors on the utility side of the service point are not
covered by the NEC. CenterPoint Energy (CNP) specifies the location of the
service point. Service entrance conductors go from the Service Point through the
meter socket to the Service Equipment (breakers, fuses or switches), CNP has
equipment specifications and/or service requirements beyond the Code for meter
sockets, metering cabinets, and metering compartments within switchgear,
switchboards and panelboards. See Section 412 and 418.3 of these Service
Standards for use of Self-Contained Meter Pedestals in mobile home parks.
132 Service Outlet: The outside terminal portion of the Customer's Installation to
which the Company's Service Drop is connected.
133 Service Outlet Location and Data Statement: A written statement prepared by
the CenterPoint Energy representative for the guidance of the Company and the
REP, or his representative. This statement shows the estimated load to be served,
the Type of Service which the Company proposes to make available, and the agreed
location for the Customer's Service Outlet at the specific premises under
consideration.
134 Transmission and/or Distribution Service Provider (TDSP): An Entity that

owns or operates for compensation in this state (Texas) equipment or Facilities to
transmit and/or distribute electricity, and whose rates for Transmission Services,
Distribution Services, or both is set by a Governmental Authority.
135 Type of Service: The characteristics of Electrical Service described in terms of

frequency, phase, nominal system voltage and number of wires.
136 Underground Distribution Areas: Those areas where Electrical Service is

supplied by the Company from its underground distribution facilities as described
in Articles 135, 136, and 137.
137 Underground Street Network Areas: Those areas designated by the Company
where established 208Y/120 volt street secondary network systems are in
operation.
12
138 Underground Radial Areas: Those areas where Electric Service is supplied by the
Company from its underground distribution facilities connected to a radial supply.
139 Underground Residential Distribution (URD) Areas: Those residential areas

where special contractual arrangements have been made for single-phase 240/120
Volt underground service to all Customers in a subdivision or specified area.
13
SECTION 200 - GENERAL INFORMATION
200 This section contains information on how to obtain service and outlines standards
to be followed to ensure safe and reliable service. Consequently, the Company
reserves the right to refuse service to any installation not meeting these
Standards.
201 Application for Service
201.1 Requests for service or changes in service may be made by calling the CenterPoint
Energy Customer Service Department at (713) 207-2222 or 1-800-332-7143 to
verify address and obtain an ESI-ID. The Customer must then select and contact a
certified Retail Electric Provider to make application for service. A list of approved
retail energy providers can be found by calling 1-866-PWR-4TEX (1-866-797-
4839), or on the internet at www.powertochoose.org. All requests for service or
changes in service should be made as early as possible. Customers requesting either
overhead or underground electric service may be required to grant permanent
easements for these facilities. This easement document outlines specific
obligations to keep the easement free from obstructions and appurtenances.
201.2 It will facilitate the prompt rendering of Electrical Service to new Customers or
additional Electric Service to existing Customers if the following information is
supplied to the Service Consultant during the early planning stages of the project.
- Exact Location of premises, including building’s street address or lot and block
number and name of subdivision, if building numbers or street names have not been
established. THE STREET ADDRESS, WHEN ESTABLISHED, SHALL BE
DISPLAYED AND SHALL BE VISIBLE FROM THE STREET. IN ALL
CASES, APARTMENT ADDRESSES ARE TO BE PLACED ON OR
ADJACENT TO THE APARTMENT DOOR (NOT IN OR ON WINDOWS)
- The Type of Service desired including voltage, phase or special requirements of

the load.
- An Electrical Load Analysis. (General nature and estimated amount of load,

such as lighting, motors, air conditioning and heating applications, including
voltage, rating and number of Motors and other items to be used.)
- The approximate date the Customer's Installation will be ready for service.
- The name of the Electrical Contractor performing the installation.
- A site plan.
- A warranty deed, if easements are required.
14
202 Agreement for Service
The Company will supply to a Customer, at any specific premise, only one of the
Types of Service listed in Section 300 of the Service Standards and such service
will be covered by one agreement for service.
The Customer's Installation is to be so arranged that all Electric Service under one
agreement for service can be supplied at one Point of Delivery and measured
by one meter.
203 Service Outlet Location and Data Statement

Before work is started on the Customer's installation, the Customer or his
Contractor shall secure from the Company a Service Outlet Location and Data
Statement for guidance in making the installations. This statement will specify the
service facility arrangement necessary to secure service connection, including the
Type of Service which the Company proposes to make available and the specified
location for the Customer's Service Outlet.
204 Change in Customer's Wiring Installation

When planning additions or alterations to the Customer's installation, the Customer
shall notify the Company and their Retail Electric Provider since most building
alterations or rewiring work will necessitate some change in the Company's
facilities. The Customer or his Contractor shall not assume that a remodeled or
increased service will be served from the same Point of Delivery as the old service.
Additional wiring shall comply with the current National Electrical Code or the
adopted code by the authority having jurisdiction. In localities having electrical
ordinances, approval by the city inspecting authority having jurisdiction will be
required before the Company is permitted to reconnect the service.
205 Change in Location of Existing Service Facilities

The Company may require a Customer to pay the expense of change in the Point of
Delivery, location of Service Drop, or location of Metering Equipment when such
changes are requested by the Customer. Where a service pole or poles must be set
to provide proper clearance around or over driveways, garages, trees, or other
obstructions on the premises, a charge shall be made for each service pole required.
206 Attachments to Company's Property

The Company's street light standards, poles, wires, towers, structures, and other
facilities are provided for the exclusive purpose of supplying Electric Service. Any
non-authorized radio or television equipment or wires, ropes, signs, banners, etc.,
are prohibited from being attached to poles, wires, towers, or structures or located
near enough to such facilities as to present a hazard. The Company reserves the
rights to remove all such hazards without notice.
When the Company’s poles with approved customer equipment attached need to
be relocated or replaced, the Customer is responsible for relocating all of their
equipment at their cost within 30 days of receipt of written notification.
15
207 Customer Wiring
207.1 The Customer’s wiring installation should conform to the requirements of the
National Electrical Code and the National Electrical Safety Code, State, Municipal
requirements in force at the time the installation is made and the Company Service
Standards as to Service Outlet Location, Service Drop, Meter Location and height,
etc. Compliance with all such codes and requirements is the sole responsibility of
the Customer for all Customer wiring and equipment. The Company does not
inspect Customer wiring and equipment, and the supplying of Electric Service by
the Company does not mean that Customer wiring and equipment has been
inspected or approved by the Company.
207.2 Certain city ordinances prohibit the Company from supplying Electric Service to a
Customer until a permit has been received by the Company from the proper City
authority.
207.3 For the Customer's and Company's mutual safety, the Company reserves the right
to decline to serve or continue to serve any installation that is declared by the
Company or the proper authorities to be unsafe and a hazard. In all such cases, the
Customer or a representative will be notified, wherever possible, and a reasonable
period of time allowed for the correction of such unsafe condition. In no case,
however, does the supplying of Electric Service by the Company indicate that the
Company assumes any responsibility for the Customer’s wiring or its safety or
adequacy.
207.4 For the Company to supply electrical service, two or more separately metered
services shall not be electrically connected to a common device on the load side of
the service disconnects.
208 Grounding
208.1 To assure maximum safety, the Customer should provide an adequate and
permanent grounding conductor attached to the neutral terminal of the main-line
switch, or where a main-line switch is not required, the breaker box.
208.2 For all Service Entrance Conductors the grounded neutral conductor should be
electrically continuous from the Service Outlet through the Meter Loop. The
grounded conductor should be positively identified either by use of white
insulation, white paint at terminals, or by other suitable methods.
208.3 The grounding conductor shall be sized and installed in accordance with
Illustration 1 on Page 23 and the National Electrical Code.
16
209 Utilization Voltage
209.1 A clear understanding of utilization voltage is essential for optimum operation of

utilization equipment. Utilization voltage is the voltage at the line terminals of the
utilization equipment. It should not be confused with service voltage which is the
voltage at the point where the electric systems of the supplier and user are
connected, which is the Point of Delivery. Utilization voltage may vary with each
location of utilization equipment. In practice the service voltage may differ from
the nominal system voltage which is designated voltage class rather than a specific
voltage.
209.2 It is recommended that the Customer install Transient Voltage Surge Suppression
at the line terminals or receptacles for all critical equipment and sensitive electronic
appliances. Transient Voltage Surge Suppressors should be UL 1449 listed and are
readily available from electrical contractors and retail stores.
210 Energizing of Customer's Service

For the mutual protection of the Customer and the Company, only authorized
employees of the Company are permitted to make and energize the connection
between the Company's Service Drop and the Customer's Service Entrance
conductors.
211 Responsibility for Customer's Installation
211.1 The Company will not perform any electric wiring on the Customer's premises
other than the installation of its Service Drop and Metering Equipment, as described
in this manual.
211.2 The Customer is solely responsible for any accidents, fires, or failures (including
meter disconnect fuses) resulting from the condition and use of his wiring
installation or equipment.
211.3 The Customer should check carefully to see that phase connections and rotation are
correct when first starting motors and to see that three-phase motors are not "single-
phasing."
211.4 Customers requiring service at voltages of 7,200 volts and above must provide at
the Point of Delivery a Company-approved disconnecting means and proper
overload and short-circuit protection. Customers shall submit plans in accordance
with CenterPoint Energy Specification 600-007-231-458 to Electric Engineering
for approval.
212 Motor Protection Devices
212.1 All motors need protective devices to safeguard the motors, the wiring, and the
equipment they operate from damage that might be caused by overloading, short
circuits, single-phasing, large fluctuations in voltage, etc.
17
212.2 The Company's Power System is designed to provide high speed reclosing of its
protective devices following power interruptions resulting from lightning or other
causes. In most instances these power interruptions will be of extremely short
duration. The Company recommends that under-voltage motor protection be
equipped with time delay devices to permit motors to ride through these short
duration interruptions.
212.3 It is recommended that overcurrent protective devices be provided in each phase to

afford some motor-running protection of three-phase, three-wire motors against
“single-phasing” unless complete protection for single-phase operation is provided,
such as a relay which will detect a “single-phasing” condition.
212.4 Protective devices of the kind described above are readily available through most
electrical contractors. The Company will advise the Customer regarding the type
required for any particular case.
213 Customer Communication or Tone Systems

Modulated carriers or pulsed carrier systems shall not be impressed upon the
electric service conductors, furnished by the Company, for conveying intelligence,
for control purposes or for signal purposes beyond the Customer's premises. In
instances where carriers are impressed upon the Customer's privately-owned
electric distribution system, the owner of such systems shall provide filters to
isolate the carrier signals from the Company's facilities.
214 Antennas (Radio, Television, Communication, Etc.)

Customers are cautioned to check the location of power lines in the immediate
vicinity where an antenna is to be installed and to remember the danger to life and
property should any part of the antenna come into contact with a power line during
inclement weather.
215 Customer-Owned Generation Equipment
215.1 Customer generation equipment may be installed and operated after application for
such installation and operation has been received and approved by CenterPoint
Energy. Customer generation equipment will be classified as either non-parallel or
parallel generation.
215.2 Non-parallel generation equipment must operate separately from the Company's
facilities. Examples include emergency power for homes, schools, hospitals,
businesses, computer installations, and other utilities (water, wastewater,
telephone, and gas). Non-parallel generation equipment will operate under specific
terms and conditions as established in the latest revision of the CenterPoint Energy
Specification 007-231-82.
18
215.3 Customers may operate generation equipment in parallel with the Company
distribution system under specific terms and conditions as established in the latest
revision of CenterPoint Energy specification 007-231-76.
215.4 Before Customer-owned generating equipment may be interconnected to the

Company system, application must be made and approved. (See CenterPoint
Energy specification 007-231-76.) For more information, contact the Service
Consultant at the nearest Company Office. (See page 5)
215.5 Customers may not install or use any transfer switch on the high side (CenterPoint
Energy side) of the meter or any transfer switch between the meter and the meter
socket jaws.
215.6 Customer owned standby generators that are to be permanently installed, must be
located on the load side (customer side) of the meter, behind a service entrance
rated device that prevents tying the running generator into the CenterPoint Energy
system, whether the CNP lines are hot or dead.
216 Electrified Fences

Use of the Company's electric service to energize fencing or to energize devices
which simultaneously energize fencing is prohibited.
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300 TYPES OF SERVICE
SECTION 300 - TYPES OF SERVICE

TYPE OVERHEAD UNDERGROUND
301 - SINGLE PHASE
• Not Available • Company option
• Underground Street Network only
208/120 V 3-wire • Spot locations with existing 208/120 V supply (Downtown Network)
• Less than 10 kVA
• All equipment must be for use at 208 V
• Standard Service • Company option

240/120 V 3-wire • Less than 334 kVA • Locations with existing 240/120 V supply
• Less than 250 kVA
• Governmental entities for lighting only • Governmental entities for lighting only
480 V 2-wire
• Less than 50 kVA • Less than 50 kVA
480/240 V 3-wire • No paralleling of transformers allowed • No paralleling of transformers allowed
• Company option • Not Available

7,200 or 19,920 V 2-wire • More than 200 kVA, but less than 334 kVA
• In accordance with CenterPoint Energy Specification 600-007-231-458
302 - TWO PHASE

• Company option • Not Available
12,470/7,200 V 3-wire • More than 200 kVA, but less than 334 kVA
OR - • Load must be balanced between phases
34,500/19,920 V 3-wire • In accordance with CenterPoint Energy Specification 600-007-231-458
303 - THREE PHASE

• Commercial and industrial customers with a total demand of at least 50 kVA or one 3-phase motor 3-hp or more
• Not generally available to residential customers
• For 3-phase, 4-wire, customer must wire for a 3 -phase, 4-wire meter
• For 3-phase, 3-wire service, customer must provide a fourth wire for metering purposes and for a bond, which shall run from the weatherhead
to the Customer’s switchgear and be sized in accordance with the National Electrical Code.
• Standard Service • Standard Service

• Permanent Service only • Permanent Service only
• Balanced 3-phase load • Balanced 3-phase load
• All equipment must be rated for use at 208 V • All equipment must be rated for use at 208 V
• All phase conductors must be the same size • All phase conductors must be the same size
4-wire • Single-phase load equally divided • Single-phase load equally divided
208Y/120 V
grd neutral • More than 75 kVA and maximum 300 kVA Pad Mounted Installation
• Secondary conductors more than 50 feet long • More than 301 kVA and maximum 1000 kVA
require Company review to maintain required voltage Network Area (Company option)
• More than 10 kVA
• Available in spot locations with existing 208Y/120 V
• Standard Service • Company Option

• Max demand 70 kVA single-phase, 170 kVA three-phase (240 kVA total) • Max demand 100 kVA single-phase, 250 kVA three-phase (350 kVA total)
240/120 V, 4-wire
Consult Company for service options. Consult Company for service options.
delta grd neutral
• Phase wire permanently identified, power orange • Pad mounted transformer installation (Two URD)
• Secondary conductors more than 50 feet long require Company
review to maintain required voltage
• Company Option • Company Option

480 V 3-wire • All phase conductors must be the same size • All phase conductors must be the same size
• More than 75 kVA and maximum 501 kVA • More than 501 kVA and maximum 3000 kVA
• Standard Service • Standard Service

480Y/277 V 4-wire • All phase conductors must be the same size • All phase conductors must be the same size
grd neutral • More than 75 kVA and maximum 501 kVA • More than 501 kVA and maximum 3000 kVA
• Company option • Company option
2,400 V 3-wire • More than 150 kVA and maximum 501 kVA • 12 kV area only
• More than 501 kVA and maximum 5000 kVA
4,160Y/2,400 V 4-wire • Company Option • Company Option

grd neutral • More than 150 kVA and maximum 501 kVA • More than 501 kVA and maximum 5000 kVA
4-wire • Company option • Company option

12,470Y/7, 200 V
grd neutral • More than 200 kVA • More than 200 kVA
• In accordance with CenterPoint Energy Specification 600-007-231-458 • In accordance with CenterPoint Energy Specification 600-007-231-458
• Available in padmounted metering configuration
• Company option • Company option

4-wire • Not available in dedicated 35kV underground system
34,500Y/19,920 V • More than 200 kVA
grd neutral • More than 200 kVA
• Available in padmounted metering configuration
20
SECTION 400 - RESIDENTIAL AND SMALL COMMERCIAL SELF-
CONTAINED METER SERVICE INSTALLATIONS
400 GENERAL INFORMATION

The Customer’s wiring installation should conform to the requirements of the
National Electrical Code and the National Electrical Safety Code, State,
Municipal requirements in force at the time the installation is made and the
Company Service Standards as to Service Outlet Location, Service Drop,
Meter Location and height, etc. Compliance with all such codes and
requirements is the sole responsibility of the Customer for all Customer wiring
and equipment. The Company does not inspect Customer wiring and
equipment, and the supplying of Electric Service by the Company does not
mean that Customer wiring and equipment has been inspected or approved
by the Company.
General requirements detailed in Section 200 governing service installations

are available from the Company's Service Consultants in the area. Customers
or customer's representative should contact the Service Consultants as early
as possible to ensure that adequate time is allowed for the preparation of
individual specifications, cost estimates, ordering equipment and acquiring
easements, if required.
401 SERVICES
The Company will supply to a Customer, at each Point of Delivery, only one
of the Types of Service listed in these Service Standards. The Customer's
installation is to be so arranged that the Company can measure the power used
by the Customer with one meter.
OVERHEAD SERVICE
402 SERVICE DROP

402.1 Requirements: The Company will install one Service Drop from the Company's
Distribution Lines to the Customer's Service Outlet. For Service Entrance
Conductors sized 200 Amperes or less, and Service Voltages of 240 volts, a twisted
Service Drop will be used. (See Illustration 2 - Typical Residential Service Mast,
page 22). Open wire type Service Drops must be used for 480 volt and 208 Volt
services for conductor sizes larger than 4/0 aluminum. (See Illustration 3 - Typical
Open Wire Service Mast, page 22) Where Service Outlets are grouped (See Article
405), the combined ampacity of all Service Outlets shall determine the type of
Service Drop. (See Illustration 1 – Arrangement of Overhead Service Equipment,
page 23)
21
22
23
402.2 Service Drop Length: The maximum length of Service Drop which the Company
will install will be governed by the amount and Type of Service and will be
determined by Company personnel. Allowable voltage drop and mechanical
factors, determined by the size and number of wires, impose limits on its length.
403 CLEARANCES
403.1 Service Drop Conductors, when not in excess of 600 volts, shall have the
minimum clearances at the lowest point of the drip loop or service drop as
required by Illustrations 5A and 5B - Clearances for Service Drop, pages 25 &26.
403.2 If an existing service is being modified and any revision in the service entrance
raceway is made, the modified service must conform to the heights and clearances
outlined in Illustrations 5A and 5B - Clearances for Service Drop, pages 25 & 26.
403.3 Service drop shall be located no closer than 5 ft. to windows, doors or porches from
which the Service Outlet may be accessible. This clearance is an NESC
requirement and must be maintained.
24
25
26
403.4 Clearance near or around swimming pools shall adhere to Illustration 6 - Clearances
of Wires, Conductors or Cables Installed Around Swimming Areas.
27
28
403.5 Service Drops must be free of contact with trees. The customer shall trim all trees
required to provide the necessary clearances. Customer should not trim trees
around primary lines.
403.6 Under no circumstances will the Company attach its Service Drop to an
intermediate structure installed by the Customer between the Company's
Distribution Lines and the Customer's Service Outlet.
403.7 Where a service pole or poles must be set to provide proper clearance around or
over driveways, garages, trees, or other obstructions on the premises, a charge
shall be made for each such service pole required.
404 LOCATION OF SERVICE OUTLET
404.1 Located at a sufficient height above ground level to provide proper clearances for
the Service Drop, as required by Illustration 5A - Clearances for Service Drop,
page 25. For the twisted type Service Drop, the Service Outlet shall not be more
than 18" horizontally, and not less than 6" nor more than 12" above the Point of
Attachment see Illustration 1 - Arrangement of Overhead Service Equipment,
on page 23).
For the open wire type Service Drop, the Service Outlet shall not be less than 6"
nor more than 18" horizontally and not less than 6" nor more than 12" above the
Point of Attachment. (See Illustration 3 - Typical Open Wire Service Mast, on
page 22).
404.2 Located so that the Company's Service Drop or the Customer's Service Entrance
Conductors are not closer than 12" to telephone or communication wires, whether
in the air or on the building.
29
405 GROUPING SERVICE OUTLETS
If a building has an established Service Outlet location which conforms to the above
requirements, then any additional Service Outlets shall be located within 18" of this
established point (See Illustration 17A – Grouping of Service Outlets). NO MORE
THAN SIX WEATHERHEADS SHALL BE INSTALLED AT EACH
SERVICE OUTLET LOCATION. If the established location does not conform to
these requirements, then all Service Outlets shall be combined at a satisfactory point
specified by the Company. When the total cross-sectional area of all Service Entrance
Conductors at a service outlet location exceed 2-1,000 KCMIL per phase, a bus bar
type weatherhead must be used. (See Illustration 17B – Typical Commercial Open
Wire Service Installation).
30
405.1 Residential (Townhomes) Service Outlet Rack: In townhome developments
where service grouping is desired, a free-standing service outlet rack may be used (See
Illustration 35 & and 36, next page.)
Minimum Requirements
• 4" x 6" timber pressure treated with penta/creosote, 6” round pole or a

steel pole of equivalent strength buried a minimum of 4’-0” and set in
concrete
• Maximum six Service Outlets per rack
• 36” clearance area in front of rack
• Meter mounting 4’-0” to 6’-0” above finished grade
• 12’-0 minimum clearance to ground for Service Drop Conductors
• The rack must be capable of withstanding a pull of 300 lbs.
• The Point of Attachment must be a minimum 14’-0” above finished grade
• Customer shall not install any attachments to the rack including decorative
lattice which may pose a hazard to CenterPoint Energy (CNP) personnel
• Maximum 200 Amp Service Outlet
• See Article 403, Clearances for Service Drop, Illustration 5A, page 25.
SERVICE RACK
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
Illustration 35
31
Alternate Design (Illustration 36)
• Customer to furnish conduit and cable to pedestal

• Conduit 2’-0” minimum depth
• Requires exclusive CenterPoint Energy (CNP) Easement
• Meter Rack placement outside of CNP Easement.
• Contact Area Service Consultant for service requirements
• See Article 416 – Service to Apartments, Townhomes or Condominiums
• See Minimum requirements listed on the previous page.
406 POINT OF ATTACHMENT
406.1 Provisions: A solid Point of Attachment for supporting the Service Drop on the
building shall be provided by the Customer at a point which will comply with the
provisions of ARTICLE 402. The Point of Attachment shall not be more than
25 feet above ground, unless a greater height is required for proper clearance
(See Illustration 1 - Arrangement of Overhead Service Equipment, page 23).
Company personnel will specify on the Service Outlet Location, the height of the
Point of Attachment if it must be less than the minimum or greater than 25 ft. above
grade.
32
406.2 Clearances: Where the required heights and clearances specified above cannot be
maintained, the Customer shall provide an extension support, which is of a
permanent nature and of sufficient strength to support the Service Drop at the
required minimum clearance. In such cases, the Customer's Service Outlet is to be
located above the service support at a height which will permit the required
clearances. A typical service mast installation is shown in Illustration 2 - Typical
Residential Service Mast, on page 22. In such an installation, 2" or larger
galvanized iron conduit, 2" or larger intermediate metal conduit, or 3" or larger
rigid aluminum conduit shall be used. If a Service Mast will not have sufficient
strength to properly support the Service Drop, installation of a service bracket will
be required.
407 ANCHORAGE FOR SERVICE DROP
407.1 Installation: Where the building is of wood construction and permits use of a screw
hook and the structure furnished by the Customer is capable of withstanding a pull
of 300 lbs., the twisted Service Drop support will be furnished and installed by the
Company. Where installation of a screw hook is not practical, the Customer shall
install the Service Drop support in accordance with ARTICLE 407.2. Where an
open wire Service Drop is to be used, the Customer shall install the Service Drop
support in accordance with ARTICLE 407.3. The Type of Service Drop (twisted or
open wire) to be installed shall be determined in
accordance with ARTICLE 402. The service drop support must be installed as
securely as possible to minimize damage to the installation from storms, falling
branches, or other hazards.
407.2 Twisted Service Drop: For a twisted Service Drop, when impractical to use a
screw hook, the Customer shall install one 5/8" galvanized machine bolt of
sufficient length for the threaded end of the bolt to extend 2" beyond the surface of
the wall and so installed that it shall be capable of withstanding a pull of 300 lbs.
407.3 Open Wire Drop: For an open wire Service Drop the Customer shall install a
secondary rack fastened to his structure with two 5/8" galvanized machine bolts of
sufficient length for the threaded end of the bolt to extend 2" beyond the surface of
the wall and so installed that each bolt will be capable of withstanding a pull of 300
lbs. The bolts shall be installed vertically 16" apart with the bottom bolt not less
than 12' - 0" nor higher than 23' - 4" above ground level. When required ground
clearance cannot be obtained otherwise, the Customer's Contractor shall secure
written permission from the Company to install the bolts horizontally with the same
spacing as for vertical installation. The Company will supply the bolts and rack
when requested by the customer. See Illustration 3-Typical Open Wire Service
Mast, page 22.
33
408 SERVICE ENTRANCE CONDUCTORS
The Service Entrance Conductors, as defined in ARTICLE 127 may be installed in
schedule 40 or greater rigid non-metallic conduit, rigid metal conduit, electrical
metallic tubing (EMT) or intermediate metal conduit except where subject to
physical damage, such as near a parking area, driveway or gate. Only schedule 80
rigid non-metallic conduit, rigid metal conduit or intermediate metal conduit may
be used for the service entrance conduit where subject to physical damage see
Illustration 10- Arrangement of Meter Mounting Device.
The Service Entrance Conductors shall be provided with a weatherproof entrance
fitting where they extend from the Customer’s conduit or raceway. The connection
to the Metering Mounting Device shall be watertight.
Except for service to internally located metering rooms, as approved by the

Company's Electric Engineering Department, the service raceway shall not be
run through attics, in partitions, or in other enclosed spaces. Service Entrance
Conductors shall extend beyond the service entrance fitting a distance sufficient to
permit connections to the Company's Service Drop, but in no case less than 18"
where a twisted wire Service Drop is to be used or no less than 36" where an open
wire Service Drop is to be used. (See ARTICLE 402).
Except for multi-occupancy projects converting from master to multi-metering,
Service Entrance Conductors shall not be installed in the same conduit or raceway
with other wiring of the Customer, nor shall load wires from a meter be run in the
same conduit or raceway with unmetered conductors. Customers contemplating
the use of pre-wired/ganged type enclosures should consult the Company’s Service
Consultant in the area. Such installations require special contractual arrangements
and submittal of detailed manufacturer’s specifications for acceptance by Electric
Engineering.
34
409 TRANSFORMER INSTALLATIONS ON CUSTOMER'S PREMISES
Under certain conditions, where large loads or considerable distances are
encountered, it may be necessary to install transformers on the Customer's premises
either overhead, or, at the Company's option and with special contractual
arrangements, on the ground, or at the Company's option and with special
contractual arrangements, in a transformer vault. Transformers or other Company
equipment should be installed in areas readily accessible by Company vehicles for
maintenance and replacement. Vehicular access shall not be blocked by permanent
structures or landscaping. The requirements of such installations vary widely, and
it is necessary in each case for the Customer to consult the Service Consultant in
the area so that satisfactory arrangements may be made to cover the installation.
This contact should be made in the planning stages or as early as possible to ensure
that adequate time is allowed for ordering equipment and acquisition of easements.
410 TEMPORARY INSTALLATIONS

Where service is required for construction or other temporary purposes, the
Customer shall provide a suitable location and anchorage for the Company's
Service Drop and Meter. Temporary service will be installed at the Customer's
expense. (See ARTICLE 422.2 for temporary Meter poles.) Temporary meter poles
may not be placed within the utility easement. Meter mounting devices used in
temporary installations shall be supplied by the Customer or his Contractor and
shall meet the requirements listed under Article 418.2.
UNDERGROUND SERVICE
411 COMMERCIAL UNDERGROUND:

Commercial Customers desiring Underground Service should contact the Service
Consultant in the area so that Electric Engineering may develop the Service
Specifications as required.
412 MOBILE HOME PARKS:

Customers desiring underground service to mobile home parks utilizing self-
contained Meter pedestals should contact the Company's Service Consultant in the
area so that satisfactory arrangements can be made. Such installations generally
require additional contractual arrangements. The Company shall make all
connections between the Company's equipment, cables, or conductors and the
Customer's Service Entrance Conductors. Consult the Company's Service
Consultant in the area for charges for standby time of Company personnel during
installation of service conductors by electrical contractors into three-phase pad-
mounted transformers. Clearance near or around swimming pools shall adhere to
the requirements listed in Illustration 6 - Clearances of Wires, Conductors or Cables
installed around swimming areas, on page 27.
35
413 UNDERGROUND SERVICE LATERALS IN OVERHEAD AREAS
413.1 Requirements: It is necessary for Customers planning to install secondary

underground service in Overhead Distribution Areas to consult the Service
Consultant in the area to arrange for a Service Outlet Location and Data Statement
as set forth in Article 203 and obtain the necessary Service Specifications for the
installation. The Customer's underground riser conduit may be installed on
CenterPoint Energy-poles where the pole is located on Customer's property or
immediately adjacent in the street right-of-way or utility easement.
No more than four (4) conductors per phase and neutral shall be accepted per
metered service (no more than 16 conductors per pole total for all services).
Customer’s conduit installed on poles shall be only rigid metal, intermediate

metal, or PVC Schedule 80. When the underground service entrance conduit is
PVC and the riser on the pole is rigid or intermediate metal conduit, the Customer
or Customer’s contractor shall ground all risers in accordance with requirements
of the National Electrical Code.
Customer’s service riser may be installed on a service pole if located on the

Customer’s property. Service poles will be provided ONLY if the standard
service extension requires them. If service poles are not required for standard
service extension, the Customer shall install and maintain a separate pole for the
underground riser. The maximum conduit riser attached directly to a pole
shall not exceed one 3” conduit. Larger conduit and multiple conduits may be
installed on poles of sufficient strength, but they must be installed on stand-off
brackets (See Illustration 8 – Conduit risers on stand-off brackets, next page).
When the Company’s poles with approved customer equipment attached need to be
relocated or replaced, the customer is responsible for relocating all of their
equipment at their cost within 30 days of receipt of written notification.
36
37
413.2 Service Conduit: Customer may attach service conduit not larger than 3”
inside diameter directly to the pole. The Company’s Service Consultant in the
area will specify on the Service Outlet Location when the Customer must attach the
service conduit directly to the pole, as in residential areas. Conduit risers shall be
permitted in order of service requests as shown by the Illustration 7 - Conduit Risers
Attached Directly to Pole, next page. In the event a primary riser is attached to the
pole, the primary riser shall be considered the #1 Customer, and any further
Customer service risers shall be installed on a stand-off bracket as #2, #3, or #4
riser on the pole. In the case where two primary risers are attached to the pole, no
other conduit may be attached to the pole. See Illustration 7, next page.
Customers must use standoff brackets for service conduit larger than 3" inside
diameter. A maximum conduit size of 4" will be allowed. See Illustration 8 -
Conduit Risers on Stand-off Brackets, for suggested installation, page 37.
38
39
413.3 Service Riser Protection: Customer may not install theft deterrents that pose a
safety hazard to CNP personnel.
414 UNDERGROUND SERVICE IN UNDERGROUND

RESIDENTIAL AREAS
414.1 Since Underground Residential Distribution (URD) areas are established by

special contractual arrangements, special conditions for service may exist, and the
Customer must request URD Service Specifications through the Company's
Service Consultant in the area.
414.2 In the Underground Residential Distribution Area, the only type of service available
to each Customer shall be the type known as single-phase 120/240 volt, three-wire,
60 hertz. This service is available to residential Customers only.
415 CUSTOMER INSTALLED UNDERGROUND CONDUCTORS
415.1 Requirements: In URD areas, the Customer or his Contractor shall furnish and
install the service conductors (Service Lateral) in accordance with Illustration 9 -
Arrangement of Residential Underground Equipment, next page. The Company
will make all connections between the Customer's service conductors (Service
Lateral) and the Company's conductors and equipment.
40
41
NOTES: ARRANGEMENT OF RESIDENTIAL UNDERGROUND EQUIPMENT
1. Meter mounting device shall be furnished by the Customer and installed by the
Customer or Customer's electrical contractor. Location should be on the side of
the house or garage where accessibility, height, working clearance, etc. comply
with Section 400 of the Service Standards.
2. Customer's contractor shall furnish and install service to the following
specifications:
A. Refer to ARTICLE 415 for conductor requirements.
B. Cable shall be installed a minimum of 2 ft. below grade if using direct burial
cable. Bottom of trench and backfill immediately above cable shall be fine
soil or sand, free of rocks, concrete, or hard objects which might damage
cable. Aluminum and aluminum alloy cables require the utmost care in
handling and installation, most installations are especially susceptible to
nicks and scratches, and careless handling may result in failure of the cable.
3. Customer's contractor shall install service cable to within 1 ft. of secondary
service hole or transformer pad. (Contractor shall contact the Company’s
Service Consultant in the area for proper location of service cable connections,
if not apparently evident on ground.) Service brought to transformer pads shall
be left opposite the small notched "V" mark on transformer pad. Ten (10) feet
of service cable shall be left for connection to a secondary pedestal or
transformer. The cable shall be coiled and secured to a stake as to be clear of
the ground. Cut ends shall be made watertight by an approved sealing method
immediately after cutting. Caution should be observed when digging within the
area to avoid damage to telephone, other cables, and gas pipe coatings. Damage
to any utility equipment shall be immediately reported to owner of utility.
CenterPoint Energy will not be responsible for damage by persons other than
its own personnel.
4. Temporary service poles shall be set outside the confines of the utility easement.
5. For temporary services only, the height of the meter mounting device on
temporary meter poles in URD areas may be reduced below the requirements
of ARTICLE 420, but in no event shall the center line of the meter mounting
device be lower than 3 ft. above grade.
6. All services shall be properly grounded.
7. Breaker box may be installed either outside or inside building.
8. Construction in areas where electrical installations are governed by city
ordinance shall meet requirements of all applicable ordinances and codes.
9. The service entrance conduit may be schedule 40 or greater rigid non-metallic
conduit, electrical metallic tubing (EMT), rigid metal conduit, or intermediate
metal conduit except where subject to physical damage, such as near a parking
area, driveway, or gate. Only schedule 80 rigid non-metallic conduit, rigid metal
conduit or intermediate metal conduit may be used for the service entrance
conduit where subject to physical damage. (See Illustration 10-Arrangement of
Meter Mounting Device, page 34).
415.2 Service Conductors: Conductors shall be listed as “USE” rated and sized for load
according to the National Electrical Code latest edition and shall be clearly marked
42
as suitable for direct burial. Suitable conductor types are USE, THW, THHW, TW,
RHW, THWN, and XHHW. Direct buried conductors shall be clearly marked as to
type. Other conductor types require CenterPoint Energy approval. Conductors must
be installed with at least 24" of cover. The bottom of the trench and backfill
immediately above the conductors shall be of fine soil or sand, free of any hard
objects which could damage conductors. Conductors in conduit shall be installed
in accordance with the National Electrical Code latest edition or as approved by the
local governing authorities.
415.3 Conductors in Conduit: Conduit shall be buried in accordance with the National
Electrical Code latest edition, however, the conduit at the transformer or pedestal
end of the run shall have at least 24" of cover. Cables installed in conduit shall be
of types listed in ARTICLE 415.2. Service cables must be installed within 1 ft. of
the secondary pedestal or transformer pad as shown in the Illustration #11.
415.4 Installation: Service cables brought to transformer pads shall be left adjacent to
the small notch "V" in the transformer pad, (See Illustration 11) or adjacent to the
secondary pedestal. The cable shall be coiled and secured to a stake so as to be clear
of the ground. Cut ends must be made watertight by an approved sealing method
immediately after cutting. Caution should be observed when digging within the area
to avoid damage to other utility facilities. Damage to any utility equipment must be
reported immediately to the owner of such equipment. (See Lone Star Notification
Center, page 106).
43
415.5 Temporary Service (Underground): Temporary service for home construction
within the URD area will be available only at designated locations adjacent to
existing energized transformers or energized secondary cable junction boxes. The
applicant for temporary service or contractor must install a temporary meter pole.
Temporary meter poles may not be placed within the utility easement. A charge
will be made for the temporary service. Meter mounting devices used for
temporary service shall be supplied by the Customer or his Contractor and shall
meet the requirements listed under ARTICLE 418.2.
415.6 Swimming Pools: Underground conductors in the proximity of a swimming pool

or its auxiliary equipment must conform to the latest edition of National Electrical
Code. See Illustration 6 - Clearance of Wires, Conductors or Cables installed
around swimming areas, on page 27.
416 SERVICE TO APARTMENTS, TOWNHOMES OR CONDOMINIUMS
416.1 Requirements: The Company, by special contractual arrangements, will provide

underground service to apartment complexes. This service will be single-phase,
120/240 Volt, 60 hertz and metered separately for each apartment unit. The
Company’s Service Consultant in the area should be contacted for contractual
information and Service Specifications for the part of the electrical services
facilities to be installed by the owner of the apartment complex.
416.2 Master-Metering: The apartment complexes that are served from master-metered
distribution system may be converted to individual unit metering, if re-wiring is
done to provide a separate electric service to each unit and special contractual
arrangements are made with the Company. Before making conversion plans the
owner should contact the Company’s Service Consultant in the area for the Terms
and Conditions for converting a master-metered system to a multi-metered system.
416.3 Cable Terminal Boxes: Whenever more than four sets of Service Entrance
Conductors (maximum of 4 sets of 350 KCMIL conductors) are to be served from
a Company-owned pad-mounted transformer, services shall be supplied from a
cable terminal box. Customer's service equipment must be suitable for the
maximum fault current available or the Customer shall install current limiters.
Current limiters shall not be installed within pad-mounted transformers. The
Company will, upon request, furnish guidelines for the fabrication of a typical cable
terminal box. The use of a cable terminal box must be in accordance with applicable
codes, electrical ordinances and CenterPoint Energy Specification 600-007-241-02
(Installation of Underground Electrical Service to Apartments, Townhomes or
Condominiums). Cable terminal box typical details are shown in Illustration 12 –
Typical Cable Terminal Box Details, next page. All cable terminal box fabricators
shall be pre-approved. For approvals contact Electric Engineering, Standards and
Materials.
44
CABLE TERMINAL BOX CLEARANCES
Illustration 12A
45
NOTES: TYPICAL CABLE TERMINAL BOX DETAIL
1. The above reflects general requirements and as such show typical details only. Any
equivalent designs submitted shall be considered.
2. Cable terminal box will be served by service lateral from CenterPoint Energy’s
transformer in CenterPoint Energy’s easement.
3. Cable terminal box and concrete foundation shall be owned, installed and
maintained by the owner. The location of the cable terminal box with respect to the
transformer will be by mutual agreement between CenterPoint Energy and the
contractor or owner. The clearance requirements stated in Illustration 12A, Page 45
are for the life of the service.
4. Cable terminal box shall be made with two separate compartments; one side for
CenterPoint Energy connections and the other side for owner's connections. Doors
on both sides will be secured by a three-point latch system.
5. CenterPoint Energy’s lock will be on CenterPoint Energy’s compartment of cable
terminal box.
6. The owner shall provide for locking the owner's compartment of the cable terminal
box. (Entire cable terminal box shall be tamper proof in accordance with
AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD ANSI C57.12.28 latest edition.
7. Fiberglass or other material shall not be acceptable.
8. Aluminum shall be used in all coastal areas such as Galveston and Freeport.
9. Cable terminal box shall be weathertight.
10. Cable terminal box shall be mounted and secured on concrete foundation in a level
position. Foundation to be capable of supporting junction box and maintaining it in
a level position.
11. The owner shall install conduit from CenterPoint Energy service lateral to cable
terminal box before CenterPoint Energy’s transformer and pad is installed.
12. Insulating barriers to be 1/2" thick and meet NEMA Code N-1, XX, GP01 or GP03.
13. All bus bars shall be rigidly supported.
14. Bus bars shall not be formed inside the cable terminal box.
15. Each phase bus bar shall be a minimum of 1/4" X 4".
16. Aluminum bars shall be tin plated at connection points. Bus requirements of two
thousand Amps and above will consist of a tinned copper design.
17. The owner shall make provisions for 3 sets of 2-hole lugs per bus bar for
CenterPoint Energy’s side of cable terminal box.
18. The owner shall make provisions as required for the owner's requirements on
owner's side of cable terminal box.
19. The cable terminal box shall have sufficient mechanical strength and momentary
rating to withstand short circuit current given on outlet location statement.
20. CenterPoint Energy will connect facilities on its side of the cable terminal box. The
owner shall connect his on his side.
21. All cable terminal box fabricators shall be pre-approved. For approvals contact
Electric Engineering, Standards and Materials.
46
416.4 High-Rise Apartment/Multi-Unit Building: High-rise apartments or other
multi-unit high-rise complexes that are to be individually metered and served with
120/240 volt single-phase service, may allocate space within the building for
transformers if the total single-phase load exceeds 500 kVA. Additionally, the
Company may require that the Customer's wiring total single-phase load be
separated into two or three equal portions.
416.5 Meter Room Specifications: CNP prefers that meter rooms not be utilized, but if
meter rooms must be used they require approval by CNP Electric Engineering
prior to construction. Contact a CNP Service Consultant for the specification
necessary to address the installation of the advanced metering system (AMS) in
meter rooms for single story and multi-story buildings. AMS uses a wireless
communication system which must be incorporated into the design of the meter
room(s) to operate successfully.
• CNP shall have 24/7 access to all locations where CNP meters are installed.
A key storage lockbox to open meter room doors is acceptable. The key
storage lockbox shall be easily accessible near the exterior door closest to
the lowest meter room.
• For single story and multi-story buildings, where meters cannot be located
on an exterior wall, meter room(s) shall be located as close to an outside
perimeter wall as possible. All meter rooms in multi-story buildings shall
be built in the same relative location on each floor where a metering room
is required.
• Modular Metering Units must be approved by CNP Personnel prior to

installation.
417 METER LOOPS

The Customer shall provide the necessary wiring for the Meter Loop with the wire
so arranged that the line (supply) side can be connected to the top terminals of the
meter mounting and the load side to the bottom terminals. All conductors shall
extend into the meter mounting device a minimum distance equal to the length of
the meter mounting device trough. If an aluminum neutral conductor is used, it must
be insulated. Where the service is three-phase, four-wire delta, ground and phase
wires shall be permanently identified in accordance with latest edition of the
National Electrical Code. The conductor serving power load (Hi-Leg) shall be
permanently identified or have a distinctive orange covering. The Hi-Leg
Conductor shall be connected to the far-right meter socket terminal (while facing
the meter mounting device) on both the line and load sides. Meter mounting device
shall be furnished and installed by the Customer for all Self-Contained installations.
Only meter mounting devices which meet Company specifications will be
acceptable on the Company’s system. No Meter Loops shall be allowed on
Company poles.
47
418 METER INSTALLATIONS
Only CenterPoint Energy or its designated representative is authorized to install,
remove or relocate a meter. CenterPoint Energy reserves the right to discontinue
service to anyone violating this ruling.
418.1 Meters and Metering Equipment: The Customer shall furnish and own all self-
contained Meter Mounting Devices. Meter Mounting Devices shall be used for both
indoor and outdoor self-contained installations and shall be furnished in accordance
with ARTICLE 418.2. Relocation and/or maintenance of the Meter Mounting
Devices will also be the responsibility of the Customer's Contractor. All
connections to the Meter Mounting Devices shall be made by the Customer's
contractor, except instrument transformer rated installations. All connections to the
Company's equipment shall be made by Company personnel only. Existing three-
phase residential Customers planning wiring changes shall contact the nearest
Company office before making changes.
METER CAN DECISION FLOW CHART

Illustration 14
418.2 Meter Mounting Device: It shall be the responsibility of the Customer or his
Contractor to purchase the proper type of meter mounting device for residential or
commercial service in accordance with the Self-Contained Meter Mounting Device
Chart, on this page. Meter mounting device shall be installed by the Customer’s
Contractor. The types of meter mounting devices are designed to carry the
continuous current as indicated for the several types of services shown. Conductors
installed in the Meter Mounting Devices shall be within the range of approved sizes
48
as listed on the UL labeling (lug sizes) within the Meter Mounting Device or the
Company will not install its Meters. The customer’s main service breaker shall be
sized for the meter mounting device used (i.e. up to a 200 amp main for a 200 amp
meter can and up to a 400 amp main for a 320 amp service). In addition, for 320
Amp Meter Mounting Devices, the 320 Amp Specifications on pages 49 and 50 of
these Service Standards also apply. The Customer will be responsible for any
damage to the Company’s metering devices, plus labor charges to repair.
The conduit shall enter and leave the meter mounting device at location of existing
hubs or knockouts. The Customer or his Contractor shall close all unused openings
by means of galvanized metal plugs or hole closer. Line and load conductors to the
meter mounting device shall not be run in the same conduit.
SELF-CONTAINED METER DEVICE CHART

RESIDENTIAL SERVICE
TYPE OF SERVICE Meter Mounting Device
WIRE VOLTAGE AMPACITY (AMP)

PHASE (VOLT) (Continuous Rating) FIGURE (Next Page)
1 3 (Note 4) 120/208 200 2
1 3 120/240 125 or 200 1
1 3 120/240 320 See 320 Amp Illustration 13A&B, pg 51
3 4 (Note 2) 240/120 200 3
3 4 (Note 2) 240/120 320 See 320 Amp Illustration 13A&B, pg 51
COMMERCIAL SERVICE
TYPE OF SERVICE Meter Mounting Device
PHASE WIRE VOLTAGE AMPACITY

(VOLT) (AMP) FIGURE (Next Page)
(Continuous Rating)
1 3 120/240 125 200, or 320 See 320 Amp Illustration 13A&B, pg 51
1 3 (Note 4) 120/208 200 2
3 4 240/120 200 or 320 See 320 Amp Illustration 13A&B, pg 51
3 3 (Note 1, 3) 480 200 or 320 See 320 Amp Illustration 13A&B, pg 51
Notes:
(1) Requires a bonding conductor, Article 303.
(2) Three-phase residential services are not generally

available. Article 303.
(3) Fifth terminal lug shall be isolated from the can.
(4) Fifth terminal lug shall be bonded to the service neutral conductor.
Service provided for Underground Street Network only (See Article 301)
49
Meter Mounting Device General Specifications
All materials, construction, and testing shall be in accordance with the American National
Standards Institute (ANSI) C12.7, Requirements for Watthour Meter Sockets, latest
revision.
The meter socket housing shall be fabricated of steel, or aluminum in accordance with U/L
Standard 414, latest revision and be suitable for outdoor use in accordance with NEMA 3R,
latest revision.
All meter cans shall be painted after fabrication and finish coats shall provide a tough non-
chalking weather resistant finish.
Performance requirements for meter sockets shall be in accordance with applicable

performance sections of ANSI C12.7 and UL-414 (latest revisions).
Meter socket shall be tested in a certified test lab to meet Underwriters Laboratory (U/L)
Standard 414, latest revision, performance requirements and labeled as such.
Socket jaws shall be rated for 600 volts.
Five terminal cans shall have the fifth terminal located in the 9 o’clock position.
Fifth terminal lug shall be isolated from the can.
A neutral connection or contact must be accessible from the meter socket opening. A fifth
neutral jaw will suffice for 120/208V Y services. (Exception: 3 Phase, 3 Wire Can)
Knockouts shall not be above any energized surfaces with the meter in place.
Minimum inside dimensions of the enclosure shall be sufficient to provide ample room for the
distribution of the maximum-size conductors for which the socket is intended. Internal wiring
space shall be such as to allow line or load conductors, or both, entering either or both ends of
the enclosure to be readily routed to the proper terminals.
Meter socket installation shall be in accordance with CenterPoint Energy Service Standards,
latest revision and meet any code requirements that may be enforced by the local Public
Authority.
Maintenance on all Customer owned devices is the responsibility of the Customer.
For specialized metering requirements, contact the Service Consultant at the nearest
Company office.
50
125 Amp and 200 Amp Meter Mounting Device
Socket jaws shall be rated for 125 Amp or 200 Amp continuous current capability.
Meter socket bypass devices are not allowed except for approved 200 Amp modular sockets.
All meter sockets will be ring type. Meter sockets with ringless covers will not be allowed.
All single-phase four terminal 125Amp and 200 Amp cans shall have tamper proof lids (TP
Bar construction).
320 Amp Meter Mounting Device
Socket jaws shall be rated for continuous current capability.
Meter sockets shall be offset or side wireway models unless the socket is 3 Phase, 3 Wire
(See illustrations # 13A, page 51). For approved modular mounted sockets, straight
connected bus is acceptable.
Terminal jaws shall be equipped with a by-pass feature operable by use of a lever that
controls the clamping of the meter blades (Jaw release) and allows for current by-pass when
the need for meter removal is required. By-pass current capacity shall be 320 amperes
continuous. Horn-type, sliding-type and automatic bypasses are not permitted.
The socket shall be capable of utilizing mechanical or compression lug connectors (3/8” or
1/2” studs) for the following conductor sizes and maintain U/L standards for wire bending
radius requirements.
Single Conductors: (Note: Wire sizes over 500 KCMIL will

4/0 – 500KCMIL (Single Lug Assembly) require CT Rated meter installation)
Parallel Conductors:
1/0 – 250KCMIL (Twin Lug Assembly)
Terminals shall be 3/8” or 1/2” cold headed zinc plated steel studs to accommodate
mechanical or compression lugs. The studs shall be attached to tin-plated mounting plates
compatible with aluminum or copper lugs.
All meter sockets shall have an insulated protective safety shield.
The meter can lid shall have a ringless meter opening only, with a latch and sealing/locking
provision. No screws are allowed on meter can lids.
The cover (lid) of the meter socket shall be such that it cannot be placed over the meter with
the bypass lever in the bypassed position and must be tamper resistant.
51
52
418.3 Self-Contained Meter Pedestals: Self-contained meter pedestals are to be used
only in mobile home parks served from underground facilities and for power supply
metering of Cable TV (CATV) installations. Where used, self-contained meter
pedestals SHALL BE FURNISHED, INSTALLED AND MAINTAINED BY
THE CUSTOMER after contractual arrangements (See ARTICLE 412) for the
installation of underground facilities have been completed. The pedestals shall meet
the following minimum requirements. The meter mounting device shall have an
ampacity of 200 amps for mobile home park applications and an ampacity of not
less than 50 amps for CATV power supply applications. At the pedestal, an
adequate disconnecting means shall be provided for each service on the load side
of the meter. The ground rod connection shall be made at ground level for easy
access. The neutral conductor shall come into the pedestal at least to the switch box
ground terminal. The pedestal shall extend not less than 30" below final grade. If
required, adequate stabilization material shall be added to ensure that the pedestal
will remain vertical at all times. Customers contemplating the use of self-contained
meter pedestals should submit detailed manufacturer’s specifications for
acceptance by Electric Engineering.
418.4 Pre-Wired Modular/Ganged Type Meter Banks: Pre-wired modular/ganged

type meter banks may be utilized under certain conditions. CNP will not allow
modular/ganged type meter bank installations where each service is individually
owned or where there is a lack of common ownership. CUSTOMERS
CONTEMPLATING THE USE OF PRE-WIRED/GANGED TYPE
ENCLOSURES SHOULD CONSULT THE COMPANY’S SERVICE
CONSULTANT IN THE AREA. SUCH INSTALLATIONS REQUIRE
SPECIAL CONTRACTUAL ARRANGEMENTS AND SUBMITTAL OF
DETAILED MANUFACTURER'S SPECIFICATIONS FOR
ACCEPTANCE BY ELECTRIC ENGINEERING.
418.4.1Blank Covers for Modular Meter Banks: Blank covers may be used to prevent
access to meter sockets while meter is not in place. Where used, it SHALL MEET
MANUFACTURE’S SPECIFICATIONS AND BE FURNISHED BY THE
CUSTOMER with company approval.
419 METHODS OF INSTALLING METER MOUNTING DEVICES
419.1 Requirements: Meter mounting devices shall not be used as junction boxes for the
Customer's wiring. Customer’s wiring shall be installed in Meter Mounting
Devices, as follows:
419.1.1 Meter Mounting Devices for Socket Type Meters rated at 200 amperes
or less: Only one conduit and one set of Service Entrance Conductors shall be used
on the line side, and one conduit and one set of Service Entrance Conductors shall
be used on the load side of meter mounting device.
53
419.1.2 Meter Mounting Devices for Self-Contained Meters rated at more than
200 amperes: Meter mounting devices rated at greater than 200 amperes shall not
be used where the anticipated load and service entrance conductors have a rating of
200 amperes or less. No more than two conduits and two sets of Service Entrance
Conductors shall be used on the line side and no more than two conduits and two
sets of Service Entrance Conductors shall be used on the load side of the meter
mounting device. The conductors do not have to be the same size for line and load.
The Customer or Customer’s contractor shall make all connections to the Meter
Mounting Device, except for instrument transformer rated installations. (For more
information on 320 Amp meter mounting devices, see ARTICLE 418.2 and
Illustration 13A & 13B on page 52.
419.2 Meter Mounting Device

Multiple occupancy service usually requires that Service Entrance Conductors be
in a sealable weatherproof wiring trough similar to the arrangements shown for
single-phase installations in Illustration 15 - Multiple Installation Using Wiring
Gutter and Individual Meter Mounting Devices, next page. Line taps shall be made
in the wiring trough by the electrical contractor. For three phase service fed from a
multi-tenant line gutter, the electrical contractor is responsible for providing and
maintaining A-B-C clockwise rotation to the line side of the self-contained meter
mounting device. No more than four (4) weatherheads and four (4) conductors
per phase and neutral shall be allowed in a wiring gutter installation. Pre-
wired/ganged type installations shall be limited to one (1) weatherhead and one (1)
conductor per phase and neutral. Accepted grounding practices for multi-meter
installation are shown in Illustration 16 - Acceptable grounding practices for multi-
metering installations, on page 56.
54
55
419.3 Meter Mounting: Meter Mounting Devices shall be installed so that the display of
the meter is level.
419.4 Clearances: Meter Mounting Devices shall be installed by the Customer or the
Customer’s Contractor with a free space of at least 36" in front and 2" on the sides,
top and bottom, as necessary clearance to install, remove, and to test equipment.
The free space shall be over the Customer's property or public ways and shall not
encroach upon the property of others even though there may be a utility easement
in the area of encroachment.
419.5 Service Cable Tap Box – Multi-Tenant Services: In Multiple-Tenant buildings

where additional services are likely, a bus conductor service cable tap box may be
required similar to Illustration 33A, next page. A Multiple occupancy service
usually requires that Service Entrance Conductors be in a sealable weather-tight
wiring tap box similar to Illustration 33B. Service Entrance conductors must enter
directly into the Service Cable Tap Box. Line taps shall be made in the tap box
by the electrical contractor. For three phase service fed from a multi-tenant line
gutter, the electrical contractor is responsible for providing and maintaining
A-B-C clockwise rotation to the line side of the self-contained meter mounting
device. Accepted grounding practices for multi-meter
installations are shown in Illustration 16. All Service Cable Tap Box
Fabricators shall be pre-approved. For approvals, contact Electric Engineering.
56
57
NOTES: TYPICAL SERVICE CABLE TAP BOX DETAILS
1. The above reflects general requirements and as such show typical details only. Any
equivalent designs submitted shall be considered.
2. Service Cable Tap Box will be served by service entrance conductors from
CenterPoint Energy’s transformer or customer’s weather-head.
3. Service Cable Tap Box and conductors shall be owned, installed and maintained
by the owner.
4. Service Cable Tap Box shall be lockable and can accept a CenterPoint Energy lock.
5. Covers shall be fastened with machine screws or bolts. Hinged covers shall not be
permitted.
6. Covers shall have two handles for cover removal.
7. Non-Metallic material such as fiberglass shall not be acceptable.
8. Service Cable Tap Box shall be weather-tight and fabricated from minimum
12GA Steel or equivalent metal.
9. The bottom of Service Cable Tap Box shall be a minimum of 6” above finished
grade.
10. 600V Insulators are required for supporting the energized bus bar.
11. Bus bars shall be sized to physically accommodate the maximum number of tenant
services anticipated and predrilled for conductor tie-ins.
12. All bus bars shall be rigidly supported and protected from physical damage.
13. The phase arrangement on three phase horizontal common power and vertical
buses shall be A-B-C from front to back, top to bottom, or left to right as viewed
from the front of the Service Cable Tap Box. B phase shall be that phase having
the higher voltage to ground on three phase, 4-wire, Delta connected systems. The
phases shall be permanently marked.
14. The bus arrangement shall include spaced holes or multi-port lugs for cable
termination.
15. Service Cable Tap Box shall have sufficient mechanical strength and momentary
rating to withstand short circuit current given on outlet location statement.
16. All Service Cable Tap Box fabricators shall be pre-approved. For approvals, contact
CNP Electric Engineering, Standards and Materials.
17. For use on service voltages through 480V.
Exception: Residential Occupancies
420 HEIGHT OF METERS
420.1 Socket Bases: The height of meter mounting devices shall be such that the center
of the opening for the meter is between 4 ft. and 6 ft. above final grade. In flood
zones, see Article 421.8.
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420.2 Pedestals: The height of self-contained meter pedestals used in mobile home parks
shall be such that the center of the opening for the meter is between 3 ft. and 6 ft.
above ground level.
421 METER LOCATION
421.1 All metering equipment shall be installed on the supply side of the main switch. No
Customer-owned device(s) shall be allowed ahead of the meter except those
required by the Company. (See ARTICLE 423)
421.2 All residential and combination residential and commercial service meters shall be
installed outdoors. In residential areas where service is supplied underground, the
meter should be located on the side of the house instead of the rear of the house.
(See Illustration 9, on page 41) In residential areas where service is supplied
overhead and the house is accessible to overhead service drops to a rear
corner, the meter should be located on the side of the house instead of the rear.
In all cases the meter should be located in a position that is accessible to
Company employees at all times without Customer assistance.
421.3 Meters are to be installed immediately above or below line gutter except for
480Y/277 volt service or 480 volt service, in which case the required meter
disconnect will be between the line gutter and the meter and shall be located so the
height of the operating handle is not less than 4 feet and not more than 7 feet above
finish grade. (See Article 423) Also, a minimum 4” clearance should be provided
to the right of the meter disconnect to allow adequate clearance for locking.
421.4 Meters shall not be located where they will interfere with traffic on sidewalks or
driveways, or where they will obstruct the opening of doors or windows.
421.5 Metering equipment shall be installed on a wall which is a substantial part of the
building itself or on a meter pole. Temporary partitions, etc., which are subject to
replacement or excessive vibration shall not be used. Meters or metering equipment
shall not be installed on the Company's poles.
421.6 Grouping: Where more than one meter is installed, the meters shall be grouped at
a point accessible at all times to the Customer's and Company employees. EACH
METER MOUNTING DEVICE SHALL BE CLEARLY AND
PERMANENTLY MARKED ON THE OUTSIDE TO SHOW THE
APARTMENT AND/OR ADDRESS TO BE SERVED BY THE METER. It
shall be the responsibility of the Customer or his Contractor to ensure the accuracy
of the markings with respect to the apartment and/or address. For changes in
existing wiring, the Customer should consult the Service Consultant in the area.
421.7 Wiring Gutter: On apartment buildings which are served 120/240, 120/208 volts,
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single phase, the wiring trough with individual meter mounting devices in
Illustration 15 on page 55 may be used. Where space limitations will not permit
placing all meter mounting devices on the same level, the meter installation may
be made by arranging them in two tiers. The center of the opening for the meters in
the lower tier shall not be less than 2.5 ft. above finished grade-level and the center
of the opening for the meters in the upper tier shall not be more than 6.5 ft above
finished grade level. The center of the meter opening for a "building service" or any
meter mounting devices requiring a kVA demand-type meter shall not be greater
than 6 ft above finished grade-level. Where space limitations will not permit
placing meter mounting devices as outlined above, or if the installation involves
multiple three-phase installations and they cannot be arranged at the same height,
consult the Company's Service Consultant or the nearest Company Office listed on
page 5.
421.8 Flood Zone: By Company special permission, Meter mounting devices may be
mounted at a height greater than 6 ft. above ground where required due to local
building codes. Contact the Service Consultant in the area where flood plain
construction occurs. For this installation, a platform with a stairway and handrail
approved by a local building official shall be provided and maintained by the
customer so metering equipment is readily accessible to company employees.
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422 METER POLE INSTALLATIONS
422.1 Requirements: A meter pole is required in those cases where suitable location,
clearance, and anchorage as called for in Articles 403, 404 and 406 are not available
on the Customer's premises. Even if the conditions set forth in Articles 403, 404
and 406 are satisfied, the Customer has the option to install a meter pole. Meter
poles are installed and maintained by the customer at his expense and shall not be
installed in utility easements. Meter poles required by the Company or at the
Customer's discretion shall be a round pole, a 4" x 6" timber pressure treated with
penta/creosote or a steel pole of equivalent strength. The use of alternate types of
meter poles must have Company approval before installation. All meter poles shall
provide the point of attachment, clearances, and anchorage as described herein. The
pole setting depth shall be a minimum of 4 ft., or 2 ft. plus 10% of the pole length,
whichever is greater. Steel poles shall be truck accessible. The Company will not
provide service to any customer owned steel pole that is not truck accessible. The
customer must provide a readily accessible Service Disconnect at the meter pole.
422.2 Temporary Service: Meter poles for temporary service of 125 Amperes or less
may be 4" x 4", or larger, timber if well anchored and braced to withstand the strain
of the Service Drops. Such meter poles may be used only when the Company's
Service Drops will not cross a street or roadway. When the Company's Service
Drops must cross a street or roadway, the Customer may pay the Company for the
cost of installation and removal of a service pole. As an alternative, the Customer
may install a 30 ft., round creosoted meter pole (25 ft. above ground) on his property
and within 70 ft. of the Company's pole so that proper road clearance of the Service
Drops may be maintained. Temporary meter poles may not be installed in utility
easements. Meter Mounting Devices used for temporary single phase service (T-
Saw) installations shall be supplied by the Customer or his Contractor and shall
meet the requirements shown in Article 418.2.
422.3 Meter Seals: It is the practice of the Company to seal or lock all meters. Only the
Company's agents and persons authorized by law are permitted to remove a
Company seal or lock.
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423 METER INSTALLATION SEQUENCE – 240V & BELOW
SELF-CONTAINED
SERVICE – METER – SWITCH – FUSE - LOAD
METER INSTALLATION SEQUENCE – 480V SELF-CONTAINED
SERVICE - METER DISCONNECT - METER – SWITCH - FUSE - LOAD
Meter Disconnect Switch Informational Note: Per UL 98 Standard for Enclosed and Deadfront Switches,
the maximum short-circuit rating for a non-fusible switch is 10,000 Amps which is typically below the available
fault current of most 480V self-contained metered services. The use of a fusible switch will meet
the requirements specified in NEC 230.82(3) for a meter disconnect switch.
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The meter disconnect switch shall not be used as a service disconnect and shall be locked
and sealed under the exclusive control of the Company. See Illustration 34, below. In
addition, it must comply with the requirements specified in NEC 230.82[3] for FIELD
LABELING BY CUSTOMER as well as all other applicable NEC requirements. Note:
The meter can is not to be used as a junction box, so the grounded conductor must run
straight through the meter can without splices. For certain multi-level structures, the most
feasible method of serving individually metered tenants often includes metering gutters
located within the building proper and remote to the Point of Delivery of Electric Service.
With such service arrangements, National Electrical Code requirements, building design,
and Customer wiring costs also make the installation of a disconnecting means between
the Point of Delivery and the remote metering gutter a desirable alternative. REQUESTS
FOR THE INSTALLATION OF A DISCONNECTING MEANS ON THE LINE
SIDE OF A REMOTE METERING GUTTER MUST BE REFERRED TO
ELECTRIC ENGINEERING FOR APPROVAL OF THE ARRANGEMENT
DURING EARLY DESIGN STAGES, PRIOR TO INSTALLATION OF
EQUIPMENT. Failure to obtain the required approval may result in the Company
refusing to energize equipment installed by the Customer. The sequence of connections
for individual meter installations served from a metering gutter shall be as stated above.
The service disconnecting means shall be installed at a readily accessible location either
outside of a building or structure, or inside nearest the point of entrance of the service
conductors. The intent of the foregoing is to locate the disconnecting means as close as
possible to the meter. For all new services, Company personnel must be able to verify
that the main disconnect is open before energizing service.
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NOTES:
Service Entrance Conductors: (See Articles 402.1 and 408.) Phase conductors for
permanent installations must not be smaller than #6 CU or #4 AL, unless approved by the
Company.
Service Entrance Raceway: (See Article 408.)
Meter Mounting Device: Meter Mounting Device is to be furnished and installed by the
Customer. (See Article 418.2 of CenterPoint Energy Service Standards for correct size of
meter mounting device)
Service Entrance Disconnect and Overcurrent Protection: Externally and manually

operable with overcurrent protection (fusing or breaker setting) not greater than capacity
of service entrance conductors; May be located inside or outside of building; Must be rain
tight if mounted outdoors, either on a building or on a pole.
Grounding Electrode Conductor: The grounding electrode conductor shall be continuous

without splices from the neutral bus in the service equipment to the grounding
electrode. The grounding electrode conductor, minimum size #8, or its enclosure shall be
securely fastened to the surface on which it is carried. A #4, or larger, conductor may be
exposed but shall be protected if exposed to severe physical damage. A #6 grounding
conductor that is free from exposure to physical damage shall be permitted to be run along
the surface of the building construction without metal covering or protection where it is
rigidly stapled to the construction; otherwise, it shall be in conduit, electrical metallic
tubing, or cable armor. Grounding conductors smaller than #6 shall be in conduit, electrical
metallic tubing, or cable armor. The National Electrical Code requires grounding to a
"Grounding Electrode." A driven ground rod is preferred by CenterPoint Energy.
Bonding (Jumper) Conductor: A bonding conductor (jumper) shall not be installed on

the meter socket neutral lug. The meter socket neutral lug bonds the meter socket to the
grounded system conductor.
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SECTION 500 – LARGE COMMERCIAL INSTRUMENT TRANSFORMER
RATED METER SERVICE INSTALLATIONS
500 GENERAL INFORMATION

The Customer’s wiring installation should conform to the requirements of the
National Electrical Code and the National Electrical Safety Code, State,
Municipal requirements in force at the time the installation is made and the
Company Service Standards as to Service Outlet Location, Service Drop,
Meter Location and height, etc. Compliance with all such codes and
requirements is the sole responsibility of the Customer for all Customer wiring
and equipment. The Company does not inspect Customer wiring and
equipment, and the supplying of Electric Service by the Company does not
mean that Customer wiring and equipment has been inspected or approved
by the Company. General requirements detailed in Section 200 governing service
installations are available from the Company’s Service Consultants in the area.
Large Service Customers should contact the appropriate key Accounts
Representative in the planning stages or as early as possible to ensure adequate
time is allowed for the preparation of individual specifications, ordering
equipment and acquiring easements, if required.
500.1 Motor Starting Currents

Motors generally require a starting current substantially greater than their normal
running current. An abnormal drop in supply voltage results when starting currents
are excessive. It is essential that the Customer’s motors not exceed allowable
starting characteristics to minimize detrimental effects upon equipment. Contact
the Service Consultant in the area upon adding any new motor load of 250
horsepower or more. DC and Adjustable Speed Drive motors generate harmonic
currents that may severely distort the customer’s voltage and could affect service
to other CenterPoint Energy customers. Therefore, before installing DC or
Adjustable Speed Drive motors totaling over 250 hp, please submit to the Service
Consultants each harmonic current, in percent of fundamental 60 Hertz frequency,
generated by the motor. Where harmonic currents at CenterPoint Energy’s meter
exceed IEEE Standard 519 limits, the customer will be required to filter the
disruptive frequencies. Before placing orders for motor control equipment,
Customers contemplating the installation of large motors shall consult the nearest
Company Office (See page 5) to ascertain the allowable motor starting currents at
the specified location. Customers wanting to operate a group of motors from a
single control shall consult with the Company to ascertain the allowable motor
starting currents at the specified location.
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500.2 Loads Having Abnormal Electric Characteristics
Certain types of equipment have electrical characteristics which may cause serious
fluctuations of voltage and interfere with the service of the Company to its
Customers. In such cases the Company shall decline to serve such equipment under
the Company’s established Rate Schedules until the Customer, at his expense, has
provided suitable apparatus to hold the effects of such fluctuations within
reasonable limits. Circumstances may require such equipment to be supplied from
a separate service and, in such event, the Company may require additional
contractual arrangements and may meter such services separately from other
services supplied to the Customer.
Installation of X-ray equipment may require special equipment on the part of both
the Customer and the Company. The Company shall be consulted before any
special wiring is started for X-ray equipment.
An increasing segment of Customer load today incorporates electronic components

and can cause harmonic distortion in the Customer’s voltage and current. This
distortion can cause negative effects in the Customer’s operations and can affect
the service to other CenterPoint Energy Customers. For this reason, CenterPoint
Energy requires limits to harmonic distortion in compliance with IEEE Standard
519 and in accordance with CenterPoint Energy Specification 007-231-83 to insure
proper service to all Customers. The following are examples of harmonic
producing equipment devices.
• DC or variable frequency AC motors utilized in air conditioning chillers and

blower motors, pump motors and plastic extrusion, etc.
• Electronic equipment such as computers and microprocessor controls.
• Equipment utilizing arcing devices including:
-Arc furnaces
-Welders, and
-Florescent, sodium and mercury vapor lighting with high-efficiency
electronic ballast-controlled lighting.
Power factor correction capacitors can magnify harmonic distortion. Before

installing any of the equipment discussed above or other similar devices
including power factor correction capacitors, contact the Service Consultant
in the area for guidance to ensure the proposed loads will not exceed
CenterPoint Energy’s or IEEE Standard 519 limits.
500.3 Ranges, Ovens And Other Heating Devices

Large heating devices to be operated from 3-wire or 4-wire service shall have the
elements connected so that the load is evenly divided between the wires, or phases,
when such equipment is equipped with automatic control that may cause frequent
connection and disconnection of the load. The Customer shall consult with the
Company concerning the allowable variation in load. The Customer
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shall consult with the nearest Company office and determine the exact type of service
to be supplied before placing orders for heating equipment other than the portable or
plug-in type.
500.4 Heavy Duty Portable Equipment

Contractors, builders and others contemplating the temporary use of heavy-duty
portable equipment such as floor sanders, welders, tile polishers, etc., are required to
apply to the nearest Company Office and make satisfactory arrangements before
connecting any such equipment to convenience out-lets or other light-duty circuits. In
cases of non-compliance with this regulation, they will be held liable for any damage
to the Company’s service facilities.
500.5 Customer Owned Generating Equipment

Before Customer-owned generating equipment may be interconnected to the Company
system, application must be made and approved. (See CenterPoint Energy
Specification 007-231-76.) For more information, contact the Service Consultant at
the nearest Company Office. (See Article 215 pages 18-19).
500.6 Fire Pumps

Where a Fire Pump Service is to be individually metered, it shall be served through a
C.T. Metered Service. (See Instrument Transformer Rated Meter Installation Sequence,
Article 517 and Metering C.T. Box, Article 513.5).
501 SERVICES
The Company will supply to a Customer, at each Point of Delivery, only one of the
Types of Service listed in these Service Standards. The Customer’s installation is
to be so arranged that the Company can measure the power used by the Customer
with one meter.
OVERHEAD SERVICE
502 SERVICE DROP
502.1 Requirements: For the Company to provide service, the weatherhead must face the
direction of the service drop. The Company will install one Service Drop from the
Company’s distribution Lines to the Customer’s Service Outlet. Open wire type
Service Drop, which requires a seven-point rack (see Illustration 17), must be used for
480 volt, 3 wire delta service (See Illustration 17 - Typical Commercial Open Wire
Service Installation, page 68). Twist conductor is allowed only for 277/480v, 4 wire
service and 240/480v, 3 wire single phase (governmental entities for lighting only).
Where Service Outlets are grouped (See ARTICLE 505), the combined ampacity of all
Service Outlets shall determine the type of Service Drop. (See Illustration 18 –
Arrangement of Overhead Commercial Service Equipment, page 69.)
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502.2 Service Drop Length
The maximum length of Service Drop which the Company installs will be governed by
the amount and Type of Service and will be determined by Company personnel.
Allowable voltage drop and mechanical factors, determined by the size and number of
wires of Service Drop, impose limits on its length.
502.3 Service Poles
Where a service pole or poles must be set to provide proper clearance around or over
driveways, garages, trees, or other obstructions on the premises, a charge shall be made
for each such service pole required.
503 CLEARANCE FOR SERVICE DROP
503.1 Service Drop Conductors, when not in excess of 600 volts, shall at least have the
minimum clearances at the lowest point of the drip loop or service drop listed in
Illustration 20 – Clearances for Service Drop.
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503.2 If an existing service is being modified and any revision in the service entrance raceway
is made, the modified service must conform to the heights and clearances outlined
above.
503.3 Located no closer than 5 ft. to windows, doors or porches from which the Service Drop
may be accessible. This clearance is an NESC requirement and must be
maintained.
503.4 Service Drops must be free of contact with trees. The customer shall trim all trees
required to provide the necessary clearances.
503.5 Under no circumstances will the Company attach its Service drop to an
intermediate structure installed by the Customer between the Company’s
Distribution Lines and the Customer’s Service Outlet.
504 LOCATION OF SERVICE OUTLET
504.1 The location must be at a sufficient height above ground level to provide proper
clearances for the Service Drop, as required by ARTICLE 503. For the open wire type
Service Drop, the Service Outlet shall not be less than 6” no more than 18” horizontally
and not less than 6” nor more than 12” above the Point of Attachment. (See Illustration
17 – Typical Commercial Open Wire Service Installation, on page 68).
504.2 Service Outlet shall be located so that neither the Company’s Service Drop nor the
Customer’s Service Entrance Conductors are nearer than 12” to any telephone or signal
wires, whether in the air or on the building.
505 GROUPING OF SERVICE OUTLETS

If a building has an established Service Outlet location which conforms to the above
requirements, then any additional Service Outlets shall be located within 18” of this
established point. NO MORE THAN SIX WEATHERHEADS SHALL BE
INSTALLED AT EACH SERVICE OUTLET LOCATION. If the established
location does not conform to these requirements, then all Service Outlets shall be
combined at a satisfactory point specified by the Company. When the total cross-
sectional area of all Service Entrance Conductors at a service outlet location exceed 2-
1000 KCMIL per phase, a bus bar type weatherhead must be used. (See Illustration 38
– Arrangement of Overhead Commercial Service Equipment, on page 70).
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506 POINT(S) OF ATTACHMENT
506.1 Provisions: A solid Point of Attachment for supporting the Service Drop on the
building shall be provided by the Customer at a point which will comply with the
provisions of ARTICLES 503 and 505. The Point of Attachment shall not be more
than 25 feet above ground. (See Illustration 20, on page 71). Company personnel
will specify on the Service Outlet Location, the height of the Point of Attachment if it
must be less than the minimum or greater than 25 ft. above grade.
506.2 Clearances: Where the required heights and clearances specified above cannot be
maintained, the Customer shall provide an extension support, which is of a permanent
nature and of sufficient strength to support the Service Drop at the required minimum
clearance. In such cases, the Customer’s Service Outlet is to be located above the
service support at a height which will permit the required clearance. If a Service Mast
will not have sufficient strength to properly support the Service Drop, installation of a
service bracket will be required.
507 ANCHORAGE FOR SERVICE DROP
507.1 Installation: The Customer shall install the Service Drop support in accordance with
ARTICLE 506.2. The type of Service Drop (open wire) to be installed shall be
determined in accordance with ARTICLE 502. The service drop support must be
installed as securely as possible to minimize damage to the installation from storms,
falling branches, or other hazards.
507.2 Open Wire Drop: For an open wire Service Drop the Customer shall install a
secondary rack fastened to his structure with two 5/8” galvanized machine bolts of
sufficient length for the threaded end of the bolt to extend 2” beyond the surface of the
wall and so installed that each bolt will be capable of withstanding a pull of 300 lbs.
The bolts shall be installed vertically 16” apart with the bottom bolt not less than 12’-
0” nor higher than 23’-4” above ground level. When required ground clearance cannot
be obtained otherwise, the Customer’s Contractor shall secure written permission from
the company to install the bolts horizontally with the same spacing as for vertical
installation. The company will supply the bolts and rack when requested by the
customer. When the service entrance phase conductors exceed 2-500 KCMIL per
phase, the Service Drop anchorage arrangements shall be in accordance with the
Illustration 26 – Weatherhead Arrangement for Outdoor Metering, page 74.
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508 SERVICE ENTRANCE CONDUCTORS
The Service entrance Conductors, as defined in ARTICLE 127, shall be installed in
rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal conduit, electrical metallic tubing, Schedule 80
PVC conduit, or, as permitted by the local governing authority, may be an approved
service entrance cable. The Service Entrance Conductors shall be provided with a
weatherproof entrance fitting where they extend from the Customer’s conduit or
raceway.
Except for service to internally located metering rooms, as approved by the

Company’s Electric Engineering Department, the service raceway shall not be
run through attics, in partitions, or in other enclosed spaces. Service Entrance
Conductors shall extend beyond the service entrance fitting a distance sufficient to
permit connection to the Company’s Service Drop, but no less than 36” where an open
wire Service Drop is to be used. (See Article 502.1.)
Except for multi-occupancy projects converting from master to multi-metering, Service
Entrance Conductors shall not be installed in the same conduit or raceway with other
wiring of the Customer, nor shall load wires from a meter be run in the same conduit
or raceway with unmetered conductors. Customers contemplating the use of pre-
wired/ganged type enclosures should consult the Company’s Service Consultant in the
area. Such installations require special contractual arrangements and submittal of
detailed manufacturer’s specifications for acceptance by Electric Engineering.
509 TRANSFORMER INSTALLATIONS ON CUSTOMER’S PREMISES

Under certain conditions, where large loads or considerable distances are encountered,
it may be necessary to install transformers on the Customer’s premises either overhead,
or, at the Company’s options and with special contractual arrangements, on the ground,
or at the Company’s options and with special contractual arrangements, in a
transformer vault. See Article 512 for primary underground service in Overhead Areas.
Transformers or other company equipment shall be installed in areas readily accessible
by company vehicles for maintenance and replacement. Vehicular access shall not be
blocked by permanent structures or landscaping. The requirements of such installations
vary widely, and it is necessary in each case for the Customer to consult the Company’s
Service Consultant in the area so that satisfactory arrangements may be made to cover
the installation. This contact should be made as early as possible to ensure that
adequate time is allowed for ordering equipment and acquisition of easements.
510 TEMPORARY INSTALLATIONS

Where service is required for construction or other temporary purposes, the Customer
shall provide a suitable location and anchorage for the Company’s Service Drop and
Meter. Temporary service will be installed at the Customer’s expense.
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UNDERGROUND SERVICE
511 COMMERCIAL UNDERGROUND

Commercial Customers desiring Underground Service should contact the Service
Consultant in the area so that Electric Engineering may develop the Service
Specifications as required. The Company shall make all connections between the
Company’s equipment, cables, or conductors and the Customer’s Service Entrance
Conductors. Consult the Company’s Service Consultant in the area for charges for
standby time of Company personnel during installation of service conductors by
electrical contractors into three-phase pad-mounted transformers.
512 UNDERGROUND SERVICE LATERALS IN OVERHEAD AREAS
512.1 Requirements: It is necessary for Customers planning to install Secondary

Underground Service in Overhead Distribution Areas to consult the Service Consultant
in the area to arrange for a Service Outlet Location and Data Statement as set forth in
ARTICLE 203 and obtain the necessary Service Specifications for the installation. The
Customer’s Underground riser conduit may be installed on CenterPoint Energy poles
where the poles are located on Customer’s property or immediately adjacent in the
street right-of-way or utility easement. Customer’s service riser may be installed on a
service pole if located on the Customer’s property. Service poles will be provided
ONLY if the standard service extension requires them. If service poles are not required
for standard service extension, the Customer shall install and maintain a separate pole
for the underground riser. The maximum riser conduit attached directly to a service
pole shall not exceed one 3” conduit. Larger conduit and multiple conduits may be
installed on poles of sufficient strength, but they must be installed on stand-off brackets
(See Illustration 23 – Conduit Riser on Stand-off Brackets, next page).
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No more than four (4) conductors per phase and neutral shall be accepted per metered
service (no more than 16 conductors per pole total for all services). (See ARTICLE
513.5 for limitation of conductors inside a metering current transformer box.)
Customers’ conduit installed on poles shall be only rigid metal, intermediate metal, or
PVC Schedule 80. When the underground service entrance conduit is PVC and the
riser on the pole is rigid or intermediate metal conduit, the Customer or Customer’s
contractor shall ground the riser in accordance with the National Electrical Code.
512.2 Service Conduit: Customer may attach service conduit not larger than 3” inside
diameter directly to the pole. The Company’s Service Consultant in the area will
specify the Service Outlet Location when the Customer must attach the service conduit
directly to the pole, as in residential areas. Conduit risers shall be permitted in order
of service requests as shown in Illustration 22 – Conduit Risers Attached Directly to
Pole on page 79. In the event a primary riser is attached to the pole, the primary riser
shall be considered the #1 Customer, and any further Customer service risers shall be
attached at the #2, #3, or #4 riser on pole. In the case where two primary risers are
attached to the pole, no other conduit may be attached to the pole. See Illustration 22,
page 79. Primary Underground Service in the Overhead Distribution Areas shall be
supplied where, in the judgment of the Company, the size or service requirements of
the load make such installation necessary. See ARTICLE 509 for Transformer
Installation on Customer’s premises.
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512.3 Standoff Brackets: Customers must use standoff brackets for service conduit larger
than 3” inside diameter. A maximum conduit size of 4” will be allowed. See
Illustration 23 – Conduit Risers on Conduit Stand-off Bracket, on page 77, for
suggested installation.
512.4 Service Riser Protection: Customer may not install theft deterrents that pose a
safety hazard to CNP personnel.
513 METER INSTALLATIONS

Only CenterPoint Energy or its designated representative is authorized to install,
remove or relocate a meter. CenterPoint Energy reserves the right to discontinue
service to anyone violating this ruling.
513.1 Meter and Metering Equipment:

For instrument transformer rated installations, the Company shall furnish and own
all equipment directly connected with the housing and protection of Meters and
Metering Equipment. Application for such equipment will be made at the nearest
Company Office listed on page 5. The customer will be asked to furnish the location
of the establishment to be served, name of owner, and the type and size wire to be used
in the Meter Loop at the location where the metering enclosure is to be installed.
Meters and Instrument Transformers, where required, shall be installed by the
Company at its expense. All connections to the Company’s Service equipment shall
be made by Company personnel only. Where a metering current transformer box
or outdoor CT service is installed, a meter box and a 10” x 26” metering potential
transformer box (if required) will be furnished by the Company and installed by
the Customer or his Contractor.
METER CAN DECISION FLOW CHART
Illustration 21
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513.2 Instrument Transformer Installations
Applications: When the ampacity of the Service Entrance Conductors is greater than
the ampacity of the Meter Mounting Device Information shown on page 80, it will be
necessary for the Company to use current transformers in the metering installation.
Potential transformers will be required on 480 volt and 480Y/277 Volt services.
Overhead Service: Where service is provided by Overhead Service Drops, current
transformers will be mounted in a Metering Current Transformer Box in accordance
with ARTICLE 513.5; or, they may be mounted outdoors without a Metering Current
Transformer Box in accordance with ARTICLE 513.7. When required, potential
transformers shall be mounted in a metering potential Transformer Box in accordance
with Article 513.4. See Illustration 24 – Typical Outdoor Metering for Single
Customer. Service requiring current transformer installations may be paralleled in
accordance with requirements outlined in Articles 513.3-513.9.
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513.3 Metering Potential Transformer Box
Where a metering current transformer box or outdoor CT service is installed for 480
volt or 480Y/277 volt service, a 10” x 26” Metering Potential Transformer Box will be
furnished by the Company and installed by the Customer or his contractor. The 10”x
26” metering potential transformer box shall be mounted between 4ft and 6ft above
ground or floor level. Where a metering current transformer box is installed, the 10” x
26” metering potential transformer box shall be connected to the metering current
transformer box with 1 ¼” conduit or a 1 ¼” nipple. Where an outdoor CT service is
installed, 1 ¼” conduit shall be run from the 10” x 26” metering potential transformer
box to the bottom of the 7-point rack. An outdoor weatherhead shall be installed on the
conduit. The placement of the 10” x 26” metering potential transformer box shall not
exceed 50’ in distance from the current transformer mounting location.
513.4 Meter Can

Meter can will be installed adjacent to the metering potential transformer box and
connected with a 1 ¼” conduit or nipple using the pre-cut 1 ¼ in. knockout holes at the
base of the meter can. No conduit will enter the top of the meter can. Where a metering
potential transformer box is not required, the meter can will be installed with the same
mounting requirements as the metering potential transformer box as listed in Article
513.3.
INDOOR MOUNTED CURRENT TRANSFORMERS

513.5 Metering Current Transformer Box (C.T. Can)
Metering Current Transformer Boxes will be furnished by the Company and installed
by the Customer or his Contractor. For Services with ampacity in excess of the Self-
Contained Meter Device Chart shown on page 48 or 78, a 30” x 42” Metering Current
Transformer Box should be used. (See Article 514.2 for wiring methods.) The Service
Entrance Phase Conductors installed in a Metering Current Transformer Box may be
made up of one wire (600 KCMIL through 1,000 KCMIL conductor) or two identical
wires in parallel per phase (300 KCMIL through 500 KCMIL conductors). Each pair
of paralleled phase conductors shall be the same color or shall be taped together or
otherwise marked for easy identification. Conductors may not be paralleled where the
total combined area per phase is less than 600 KCMIL (two 300 KCMIL) or greater
than 1,000 KCMIL (2-500 KCMIL). NO MORE THAN TWO CONDUCTORS
PER PHASE SHALL BE USED REGARDLESS OF CONDUCTOR SIZE. When
the total cross-sectional area of Service Entrance Conductors are greater than 1,000
KCMIL (2-500 KCMIL) per phase, a bus bar type current transformer installation must
be used, as shown in Illustration 25 – Bus Bar Drilling in Current Transformer Box,
next page.
82
513.6 Bus Bar Weatherhead: When the service entrance requires conductors greater than
2-1000 KCMIL per phase, a bus bar type weatherhead must be used. If the service
entrance requires conductors less than or equal to 2-1,000 KCMIL per phase, then the
Customer may utilize either a bus bar type weatherhead or a conventional type
weatherhead installation (See Illustration 26 – Weatherhead Arrangement for Outdoor
Metering, page 74) or Illustration 24, page 81 with outdoor current transformers. See
ARTICLE 513.7 – 514.2 for outdoor current transformer installation. Typical details
of a bus bar type weatherhead are shown in the Illustrations 27-30, on pages 84-87.
All bus bar weatherheads must be approved by Company personnel.
83
84
85
86
87
OUTDOOR MOUNTED CURRENT TRANSFORMERS (Outdoor C.T.)
513.7 Service Entrance Phase Conductors: Where a building is designed to be

occupied by a single Customer (one meter) and is served from an Overhead Service
Drop, one set of outdoor mounted current transformers may be utilized. Where potential
transformers are required, see Article 513.3. Service Entrance Phase Conductors for
outdoor metering transformer installations may be made up of one wire (600 KCMIL
through 1,000 KCMIL conductor) or two identical wires per phase (300 KCMIL through
500 KCMIL conductors). Each pair of parallel phase conductors shall be of the same
color or shall be taped together securely or otherwise marked for easy identification.
Conductors may not be paralleled where the total combined area per phase is less than
600 KCMIL (2-300 KCMIL) or greater than 1,000 KCMIL (2-500 KCMIL). NO
MORE THAN TWO CONDUCTORS PER PHASE SHALL BE USED
REGARDLESS OF CONDUCTOR SIZE.
513.8 Mounting Devices: Where Service Entrance Conductors do not exceed 2-500
KCMIL per phase, the current transformers will be mounted on a standard secondary
rack installed by the Customer or his Contractor in accordance with Illustration 24 –
Weatherhead Arrangements for Outdoor Metering, on page 81. The Customer shall
attach the rack to his structure with two 5/8” galvanized machine bolts of such length
that the threaded end of the bolt will extend 2” beyond the surface of the wall, and the
bolts are to be anchored so that each bolt will be capable of withstanding a pull of 300
lbs. Where Service Entrance Conductors exceed 2-500 KCMIL (1-1,000 KCMIL) per
phase, the current transformers will be mounted on a separate mounting bracket supplied
and installed by the Company. The Customer shall install two ½” galvanized bolts with
the threaded ends protruding 2” from the wall in accordance with Illustration 26 –
Weatherhead Arrangements for Outdoor Metering, on page 74.
513.9 Service Mast Installations: Where a service mast type installation is used in
conjunction with outdoor mounted current transformers, the Customer shall provide 1
¼” conduit through the roof connecting to the 10” x 26” meter box/metering potential
transformer box.
513.10 Customers Ineligible for Outdoor C.T. Service: In a building where more than one
Customer (more than one meter) is to be served from a single Overhead Service Drop,
outdoor metering shall not be used and each Customer (meter) requiring current
transformers must install a Metering Current Transformer Box (and a Metering Potential
Transformer Box, if required.) However, where service has been provided to a building
occupied by only one Customer (one meter) utilizing outdoor mounted metering
transformers and the building is later divided so as to add one or more additional
Customers (meters), the added Customers will be served through self-contained
metering or current transformer metering as required. Each added Customer requiring
current or potential transformers must install a metering Current Transformer Box (and
a Metering Potential Transformer Box, if required) and a protective meter box. The
original outdoor metered service may be retained, but not more than two additional
weatherheads, with a maximum of 1-1,000 KCMIL per phase in each weatherhead, will
88
be connected to the Service Drop, provided the total combined load does not exceed
1,500 kVA.
513.11 Meter Equipment Bonding:
• The customer is responsible for bonding connections for cable and bus CT
Services.
• All non-current carrying metallic parts to be effectively bonded with copper
conductors.
• The Meter Box, PT Box and CT Box shall be bonded with nut/bolt bonding lugs.
• The equipment bonding jumper (Supply Side Bonding) for the CT Box shall be
in accordance with NEC Table 250.102(C)(1).
• From the Meter Box to the CT Box, the bonding conductor shall be #8 CU
marked in accordance with the NEC.
• The Company will install the secondary wiring between the instrument
transformers and the meter. Also, the Company will install the final bonding
connection to system neutral.
89
514 METHODS OF INSTALLING METERING EQUIPMENT
514.1 Metering current and potential transformer boxes and meter boxes shall be installed by
the Contractor with a free space of at least 36” in front, 2” on the sides, 6” on top, and
24” to 48” on the bottom from finished grade as necessary clearance to install, remove,
and to test equipment. The free space shall be over the Customer’s property or public
ways and shall not encroach upon the property of others even though there may be a
utility easement in the area of encroachment. The Customer shall install a meter box as
required at a location which will provide these clearances, and which will meet all
conditions listed in Article 513.
514.2 Where a Metering Current Transformer Box is used, it should be mounted with the
service and load conduits entering and leaving on opposite end sections of the box. If
necessary, the conduit may enter the back of the box at the extreme ends. The length of
both line and load leads entering the Metering Current Transformer Box shall be 48” for
30” x 42” boxes. If both line and load conduits must enter one end section of the 30” x
42” box, one set of lead must be 72” long and the other set of leads must be 48” long.
Holes cut in Metering Current Transformer Boxes must be cut with a hole cutter and
must not be burned. If hubs are installed in Metering Current Transformer Boxes, they
must be waterproof and not welded, brazed, or soldered. See Illustration 32-Current
Transformer Box Modification.
90
515 METER LOCATION
515.1 In all cases, the meter should be located in a position that is readily accessible to
Company employees at all times without Customer assistance.
515.2 All instrument transformer rated meters shall be installed outdoors where practical. In
locations where outdoor installations are impractical, commercial and industrial meters
may be installed indoors; but the Company must be consulted prior to the installation.
515.3 Meters shall not be located where they will interfere with traffic on sidewalks or
driveways, or where they will obstruct the opening of doors or windows.
515.4 In those special cases where metering equipment is installed indoors, it shall be
located in a clean, dry place, free from vibration and readily accessible during normal
working hours. It shall not be installed in toilets, bathrooms, elevators shafts, boiler
rooms, attics, balconies, kitchens, stairways, ventilators, storage sheds, moving
machinery or hazardous locations.
515.5 Metering equipment shall be installed on a wall which is a substantial part of the
building itself or on a meter pole. Temporary partitions, etc., which are subject to
replacement or excessive vibration shall not be used. Meters or metering equipment
shall not be installed on the Company’s poles.
515.6 Meters or current transformers shall not be installed in or directly on switchgear

cabinets.
516 METER SEALS

It is the regular practice of the Company to seal or lock all meters, meter test switches,
terminal boxes, current transformer cabinets and terminals of current transformers. No
one but the Company’s agents and persons authorized by law are permitted to remove a
Company seal or lock.
91
517 INSTRUMENT TRANSFOMER RATED METER INSTALLATION
SEQUENCE
THE SEQUENCE OF CONNECTIONS SHALL BE AS FOLLOWS:
SERVICE – METER – SWITCH – FUSE - LOAD
For certain multi-level structures, the most feasible method of serving individually
metered tenants often includes metering gutters located within the building proper and remote
to the Point of Delivery of Electric Service. With such service arrangements, National Electrical
Code requirements, building design, and Customer wiring costs also make the installation of a
disconnecting means between the Point of Delivery and the remote metering gutter a desirable
alternative. REQUESTS FOR THE INSTALLATION OF A DISCONNECTING MEANS
ON THE LINE SIDE OF A REMOTE METERING GUTTER MUST BE REFERRED
TO ELECTRIC ENGINEERING FOR APPROVAL OF THE ARRANGEMENT
DURING EARLY DESIGN STAGES, PRIOR TO INSTALLATION OF EQUIPMENT.
Failure to obtain the required approval may result in the Company refusing to energize
equipment installed by the Customer. The sequence of connections for individual meter
installations served from a metering gutter shall be as stated above. The service disconnecting
means shall be installed at a readily accessible location either outside of a building or structure,
or inside nearest the point of entrance of the service conductors. The intent of the foregoing is
to locate the disconnecting means as close as possible to the meter. For all new services,
Company personnel must be able to verify that the main disconnect is open before
energizing service.
92
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95
96
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99
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102
103
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105
LONE STAR NOTIFICATION CENTER
OSHA Rule 1926.651 Requires Previous Notification

CALL BEFORE YOU DIG
713-223-4567
or Toll Free
1-800-669-8344
Or 811 (www.call811.com) nationwide number
When you need to evacuate in the Houston area, there is a single number you can call
to be sure you don’t encounter the inconvenience of digging into underground power lines.
Just call the special operator who is on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 223-
4567 or 1-800-669-8344. Tell the operator who, what, when and where about your excavation
plans at least 48 hours before you begin. You message is relayed to each of the area
utilities. If they have underground lines in the area, they will either contact you directly, or
will stake out the job site with color coded markers to show you where their lines are located.
Here are the colors:

Red – Electric power lines or conduits.
Orange – Communication lines or other hazardous lines.
Yellow – Gas, oil, petroleum or other hazardous lines.
Green – Storm and sanitary sewer lines.
Blue – Water lines
If, for any reason, you should cut an underground line, the same numbers can also be
used to notify any of the utilities. So remember these numbers, and save yourself time and
trouble when you need to dig.
713-223-4567 or Toll Free 1-800-669-8344 or 811
106

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1. Company Offices– Updated Service Center Information – (Page 5).

2. Section 300 – Types of Services, 301 Single Phase - (Page 20).

3. Article 403 – Clearances - Updated Illustration 5B - (Page 26).

4. Article 405.1 – Residential Service Outlet Rack – (Page 31 and 32).

5. Article 408 – Service Entrance Conductors - (Page 34).

7. Article 418 – Meter Installation – 320A Meter Can (Page 52).

8. Article 418.4 – Pre-Wired Modular/Ganged Type Meter Banks - (Page 53).

12. Article 420.1 – Height of Meters - (Page 58).

13. Article 421.8 – Meter Location – Flood Zone - (Page 60).

15. SECTION 400 NOTES: Bonding (Jumper) Conductor - (Page 64).

19. Article 508 – Service Entrance Conductors - (Page 75).

21. Article 513.2 – Instrument Transformer Installation Applications. – (Page 81).

23. Article 513.11 – Meter Equipment Bonding - (Page 89).

REMEMBER, ELECTRIC POWER LINES CAN KILL!

LAST REVISED 2-10-20

MANY PROVISIONS IN THESE SERVICE STANDARDS DISCUSS THE

Paper copies will only be provided upon request.

SERVICE ADDRESS CITY, STATE TELEPHONE Boundary

BAYTOWN 333 Ward Road Baytown, TX 77520 (281) 425-7352 P. 93

BRAZORIA 700 E. FM1462 Rosharon, TX 77583 (281) 595-6170 P. 95

CYPRESS 18018 Huffmeister Cypress, TX 77429 (832) 773-6020 P. 96

FORT BEND 4011 Avenue H Rosenberg, TX 77471 (281) 341-4904 P. 97

GALVESTON 502 27th Galveston, TX 77550 (409) 765-4165 P. 98

GREENSPOINT 2301 Gears Road Houston, TX 77067 (713) 945-4636 P. 99

HARRISBURG 3000 Harrisburg Houston, TX. 77003 (713) 207-4558 P. 100

KATY 5431 Highway Blvd. Katy, TX 77492 (281) 391-5104 P. 102

SUGARLAND 13300 West Bellfort Houston, TX 77099 (281) 561-2967 P. 105

Section 100-Definitions Page Article

Section 300 - Types of Service

SECTION 400 - RESIDENTIAL AND SMALL COMERCIAL

SECTION 500 - LARGE COMMERCIAL INSTRUMENT

Lone Star Notification Center…………………………………………………..……………106

103 Company: CenterPoint Energy

105 Customer: Any individual, partnership, association, firm, public or private

106 Customer Extension: Any addition to the Company's existing distribution

108 Customer's Service Equipment: The necessary equipment and accessories,

112 Manufactured Home: Built on a non-removable chassis (Federal Construction

113 Meter: An instrument, or instruments, together with auxiliary equipment, for

119 Mobile Home: A factory assembled structure or structures transportable in one or

120 Modular Home: Designed, engineered and built in a factory-controlled

125 Rate Schedule Classification: The classification of the Customer's Electric

134 Transmission and/or Distribution Service Provider (TDSP): An Entity that

135 Type of Service: The characteristics of Electrical Service described in terms of

136 Underground Distribution Areas: Those areas where Electrical Service is

139 Underground Residential Distribution (URD) Areas: Those residential areas

201 Application for Service

- The Type of Service desired including voltage, phase or special requirements of

- An Electrical Load Analysis. (General nature and estimated amount of load,

- The name of the Electrical Contractor performing the installation.

- A warranty deed, if easements are required.

203 Service Outlet Location and Data Statement

204 Change in Customer's Wiring Installation

205 Change in Location of Existing Service Facilities

206 Attachments to Company's Property

209.1 A clear understanding of utilization voltage is essential for optimum operation of

210 Energizing of Customer's Service

211 Responsibility for Customer's Installation

212.3 It is recommended that overcurrent protective devices be provided in each phase to