Some NEC Considerations for Electrified Truck Parking Spaces
Electrified parking spaces are useful for long-haul truckers, especially for trucks carrying refrigerated goods. Rather than run the engine all night to keep the cargo cool, the trucker can just plug in. Even for shorter stays at a truck stop, such as to shower and eat, electrification is helpful. And in a densely-packed truck stop, electrification reduces diesel exhaust concentrations.
Article 626 of the National Electrical Code (NEC) provides the rules for electrifying truck parking spaces. Here are some highlights:
- The calculated load for a feeder or service must be at least the sum of the loads on the branch circuits [Sec. 626.11(A)].
- For purposes of load calculations, the loads are continuous [Sec. 626.11(D)].
- The demand factors must be based on the climactic temperature zone of the installation site (you can find this information online) [Sec. 626.11(B)].
- Post, pedestal, and raise concrete pad types of supply equipment must be at least 2 ft above ground or above the highest water level mark [Sec. 626.22(B)].
- If the space is meant to supply Transport Refrigerated Units, it must have an individual branch circuit and receptacle for operating the refrigeration/heating units [Sec. 626.30].
About the Author
Mark Lamendola
Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.
Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.
Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.