Alternator Scamp /6

Hello
Was wondering if this is normal operation for an alternator. I recently cleaned all the ground out connections to the car (battery/wire bolt/ground cable engine block), I never notice before but it appears my alternator in always on the needle in the middle (Pic attached) even when engine off. Also now when engine starts the needle is at the +40 now. I never paid to much attention to this just wondering is this normal operation before I blow something in vehicle.
Thank you for your time
Van Leer