A small-scale hydropower system has a generator with a rated output of 50 kW and a rated voltage of 480 V. The system is designed to operate at a head of 20 ft. What is the minimum conductor size required for the generator to the transformer, according to Article 690.61(A)(1) of the 2026 NEC?

Texas Master exam practice question · Renewable Energy

A small-scale hydropower system has a generator with a rated output of 50 kW and a rated voltage of 480 V. The system is designed to operate at a head of 20 ft. What is the minimum conductor size required for the generator to the transformer, according to Article 690.61(A)(1) of the 2026 NEC?

A10 AWG
B8 AWG
6 AWG
D4 AWG

Exam tip

Always refer to the specific NEC tables for conductor sizing based on current requirements.

Why C is correct

According to Article 690.61(A)(1), the conductor size must be sized to carry the maximum current expected, which is the rated output divided by the rated voltage. The calculation is 50,000 W / 480 V = 104.17 A. Using Table 310.16, the minimum conductor size for 104.17 A is 6 AWG.

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A small-scale hydropower system has a generator with a rated output of 50 kW and a rated voltage of 480 V. The system is designed to operate at a head of 20 ft. What is the minimum conductor size required for the generator to the transformer, according to Article 690.61(A)(1) of the 2026 NEC?

A small-scale hydropower system has a generator with a rated output of 50 kW and a rated voltage of 480 V. The system is designed to operate at a head of 20 ft. What is the minimum conductor size required for the generator to the transformer, according to Article 690.61(A)(1) of the 2026 NEC?

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