Electrical Load Center

Electrical load centers provide metered electric service to support programming and site activations. A load center must be connected to the local power utility and can provide power at the cabinet or through power receptacles located throughout the site. Providing electric service helps foster more dynamic and vibrant public spaces by supporting a wider array of activations. Review the Key Considerations for more information on designing spaces for activations.

Astor Place, Manhattan

Description

  • Typically, a lockable metal cabinet sufficient in size to house a meter and circuit breaker
  • Load centers vary in sizes. It should be designed and sized based on the type of activations that are anticipated for the site and the expected power draw
  • Locating and bringing power to a site is a complex process and should be coordinated early in the development process of a project. It requires coordination with a wide range of agencies and stakeholders

Siting

  • Siting should consider ways to minimize visual impact of the electrical load center; consider specifying the smallest cabinets necessary to support the electrical needs of the site
  • Site so that the load center does not impact clear path
  • Locate in close coordination with utilities and other physical constraints
  • Locate in an area where it can be serviced and maintained

Installation

  • Installed generally as part of capital reconstruction projects
  • Installed only with a maintenance partner that assumes the cost for electric usage
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