Code Change Summary: Former Article 750 on Energy Management Systems has been relocated to new Article 130 in the 2026 NEC^®, with major structural and technical revisions.

SME commentary:

During the 2026 NEC^® development cycle, the previous Article 750 on Energy Management Systems (EMS) underwent substantial restructuring and enhancement. During the 2023 NEC^® development cycle, the code-making panel consolidated EMS provisions from across the NEC^® into Article 750 during the Second Draft stage. However, due to the late timing in the cycle, the panel could not complete all the structural and technical refinements necessary to fully refine the article. The 2026 NEC^® has addressed these gaps by relocating the content to newly designated Article 130 and dividing it into two distinct parts for improved clarity and application.

Part I of Article 130 now contains general requirements that apply to all energy management systems, while Part II focuses exclusively on energy management systems that provide overload control. These specialized systems are correctly called Power Control Systems (PCS), an accurate term intended to clearly differentiate general EMS from those tasked with preventing overloads of conductors and electrical equipment.

Significant editorial and technical revisions were made throughout the article to bring it into full compliance with the NEC^® Style Manual and to align with language used in the current product standards. For example, listing and labeling requirements have been streamlined and are now found in Section 130.2. EMS used in general applications must be listed, while those providing overload control must be listed and labeled specifically as a PCS. Informational notes have been added to direct users toward applicable product safety standards, ensuring the equipment selected is suitable for the intended application.

Several key sections from former 750.30(C) have been relocated and revised for enhanced usability. For instance, requirements related to system malfunction, adjustable settings, and PCS control settings have been reorganized under Sections 130.60 through 130.70 (see below). Revisions to language and structure ensure that PCS are equipped with proper monitoring, accessed only by qualified persons, and have sufficient methods for restricting access to settings:

130.60(A) Monitoring and Controls.

130.60(B) Malfunction.

130.70(A) PCS Control Settings.

130.70(B) Adjustable Settings.

Section 130.80 introduces new marking and documentation requirements, particularly for complex PCS installations. These include identifying the qualified personnel responsible for determining settings and maintaining calculation records. This level of detail is not required for one- and two-family dwellings, which typically involve simpler systems. Directory requirements from 750.50 were also revised and moved into 130.80(C) to apply specifically to PCS installations where overcurrent protection is not within sight.

The restructuring of Article 130 represents a necessary evolution in EMS requirements. These changes provide greater granularity, clearer scope delineation, and better alignment with emerging technologies and safety standards.

Below is a preview of the NEC^®. See the actual NEC^® text at NFPA.ORG for the complete code section. Once there, click on their link to free access to the 2026 NEC^® edition of NFPA 70.

2023 Code Language:

750.30(C)(1) Current Setpoint.

750.30(C)(2) System Malfunction.

750.30(C)(3) Settings.

2026 Code Language:

130.60(A) Monitoring and Controls.

130.60(B) Malfunction.

130.70(A) PCS Control Settings.

130.70(B) Adjustable Settings.