I agree that the NFPA estimates for complying with the 08 code are far lower than will be the case in the real world. Add in a 'cascade effect' (additional panels, etc.), and I see the real cost as being well above the $3-$400 asserted in a recent code update class. Say, by an order of ten.
Cost, however, is not the issue. Despite patronizing appeals to emotion (how much is one life worth?) .... that is NOT the function of the NEC. As Article 90 makes clear, the NEC is a minimum, practical safety ... and not a design code. I believe that the changes in the 08 edition exceed this mandate.
More invidious has been the spread of an attitude that it is necessary for locales to explain their failure to adopt a model code. This has it completely backwards ... it is for the NFPA, and anyone else, to justify themselves to AHJ. The decision is for the AHJ, in complete conformance with the CONSTITUTIONAL political process, make.
"We won't make it / can't make it affordable without a guaranteed mass market" is pure hubris. Pick nearly any item you can see ... and it was developed, made, and marketed without any such guarantees. There is no reason for a special set of rules to be developed just for NEMA. Reno Steinke
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