Venturing Vortex 2005 - Power

We need 100A 120/240V power. We can connect our own power distribution panel to this power. The power needs to be within 50 feet of the stage. We can go farther if needed. We would like to know the distance so we know what length of power cable to bring with us.

Alternatively, you can supply us with ten 20A 120V circuits near the stage.

In generator terms, that's about 31 kV-A or 25 kW (25 thousand watts). However, a generator should not be run at more than 80 percent capacity, so you don't wear it out. That means the generator should be rated at 40 kV-A or 32 kW.

This will power all of the sound equipment, stage lighting, and video projection equipment. Since the content of the shows has not been finalized, this is only an educated estimate of the actual power needs.

If a generator is supplying the power, steps must be taken to keep the generator noise from the stage and audience areas. Dense objects are needed to block the sound. This could be a pile of dirt, rocks, bricks, several layers of sheetrock, or several layers of MDF (fine-grained particle board). Better quality generators have built-in sound deadening material.

If the power is coming from a generator, make sure that it supplies the needed power at 120 volts. Some generators supply the rated power at 240, 480 or other voltage and only supply a small amount of power at 120 volts.

The local power company might put in a temporary line and meter for you. Especially if they think it's for a good cause, or if they think it will generate some revenue for them. If so, an electrician will need to install an outdoor breaker panel on a post next to the meter. The electric company may or may not allow you to put the panel on their pole. The panel needs a main breaker and space for six or more branch circuit breakers. A panel like the Square D 100 amp, 6-space, QO load center, model QO612L100TRB would work. If you install a Square D panel, I can supply my own branch circuit breakers. The main panel needs to be inspected by the local electrical inspector. Connection to my sub panel may or may not need an electrical inspection. Here in North Carolina it would not, since we are making a temporay connection lasting less than 90 days.


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