An electrical panel upgrade is the process of replacing or upgrading a home’s main electrical panel to increase capacity, improve safety, or meet modern electrical standards.

Electrical panels distribute electricity throughout a home. If a panel is outdated or lacks sufficient capacity, it may not be able to safely support additional electrical load, including a solar energy system.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homes adding new energy technologies may require electrical system upgrades to safely handle increased demand and meet current codes¹.

How an electrical panel upgrade works

An electrical panel upgrade involves replacing or modifying the primary components of a home’s electrical system.

Typical process:

• A licensed electrician evaluates the existing panel

• The panel is replaced or upgraded to a higher capacity (often from 100 amps to 200 amps)

• New breakers and wiring connections are installed

• The system is inspected to ensure it meets local electrical codes

Upgrades are designed to ensure the home can safely distribute electricity across all systems and appliances.

When an electrical panel upgrade is needed

Not all homes require an upgrade, but certain conditions make one more likely.

Common reasons include:

• An older panel that no longer meets code requirements

• Insufficient capacity for modern electrical usage

• Frequent breaker trips or overloaded circuits

• Adding high-demand systems like electric vehicles or solar

Electrical panels that are outdated or undersized may need to be upgraded before additional systems can be installed safely.

How electrical panel upgrades relate to solar installation

Electrical panel upgrades are sometimes required before installing solar, particularly if the existing panel cannot support the added electrical load.

Common scenarios include:

• Panels that are already at full capacity

• Systems that do not meet current electrical codes

• Homes adding both solar and battery storage

With providers like Sunrun, panel capacity is typically evaluated during the solar design process. If an upgrade is needed, it may be coordinated as part of the overall installation, helping streamline the process for homeowners.

Why electrical panel upgrades matter

Electrical panel upgrades play an important role in safety and system performance.

They help:

• Ensure safe distribution of electricity throughout the home

• Support modern energy needs and new technologies

• Reduce the risk of overloaded circuits or electrical hazards

• Prepare the home for solar and other energy upgrades

Upgrading a panel can improve both reliability and long-term electrical capacity.

Electrical panel upgrade vs. panel replacement

These terms are often used interchangeably but can have slightly different meanings:

• Electrical panel upgrade: increasing capacity or improving functionality

• Panel replacement: swapping out an old or faulty panel with a similar or upgraded version

In many cases, a replacement also serves as an upgrade if capacity or safety features are improved.

Takeaways

• An electrical panel upgrade increases a home’s electrical capacity and safety

• It may be required when adding new systems like solar or electric vehicles

• Upgrades ensure compliance with modern electrical codes

• Solar installations sometimes require panel upgrades to support system load

• Some providers coordinate upgrades as part of the solar installation process