I know we have 100 threads on generators but I am considering pulling the trigger on a General 24kw. It comes with a ATS and I'll build the pad. The generator will sit within about 10' of the gas and electrical box.

What are other cost I need to consider to get the generator installed. Looking to set a budget as best I can. We do not need to pull permits of any kind.

I know I'll need load management for the 3 ac units but everything else is standard stuff. (I think)

EDIT: I originally missed you mentioning the ATS.

I guess you'll need to factor in renting a trencher to run the lines. Conduit. Gas line. Gas regulator. That's just off the top of my head.

There's a chance you need the gas company to upgrade your meter.

You most likely won't be able to DIY. The ATS will require the meter to be pulled. Most utilities (I know for a fact Centerpoint and a few others around Houston) will require you to get permission to pull meter. To put the meter back will require a Master Electrician to install.

So you can do some of the leg work (pad installation, gas line, some electrical), but the final connection will need to be a ME to do it. Now, if you know one that'll put their name or do a final inspection, go for it.

~egon

I'm trying to remember how my install occurred. It was during a total remodel. I know the electric company (Mid-South Co-op) put a new pole and meter in, but the generator was not installed until months later. I don't recall them coming back out when the electricians did the generator an ATS install. It seemed like the electricians just handled everything.

I'm in a similar location where no permits were required for the remodel, and my fuel was coming via propane tank.

Dr. Doctor said:

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You most likely won't be able to DIY. The ATS will require the meter to be pulled. Most utilities (I know for a fact Centerpoint and a few others around Houston) will require you to get permission to pull meter. To put the meter back will require a Master Electrician to install.

So you can do some of the leg work (pad installation, gas line, some electrical), but the final connection will need to be a ME to do it. Now, if you know one that'll put their name or do a final inspection, go for it.

~egon

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The utility generally controls this so it doesn't matter if you are in an unincorporated area. You're messing around with stuff that they technically own.

You may be able to do all the hard work (trenching and running wire/gas line) and get an electrician to come in and pull the permits and do the actual connections.

Thinking of doing this as well after pricing a full install (basically 1x cost of genset...). On the requirement of pulling the meter -- is this an assumption that there isn't a primary disconnect in front of the meter? We have regular suburban mid 2000s house that has a main utility disconnect near the curb and on the utility side of the meter, clearly labeled 150A service. No idea how common this is but this is a regular suburban build. In this scenario I should technically be able to shut off the primary disconnect and then attach to the main service panel at the house, correct? Is there something else I am missing?

As has been said, code is going to be the issue. It's likely the permits to tie into the gas meter (that probably will need yo be upsized) and new electrical code upgrades / permit will require it be contracted out.