What panel size do I need for solar?

Most residential solar systems (up to 10 kW) can be installed on a 200A panel. Larger systems, or systems with a whole-home battery, may require 320A or 400A service.

Is 200A enough for an EV charger?

Yes, for most EVs. A 200A panel can handle a 40–60A EV charging circuit alongside normal household loads. Trucks with 19.2kW onboard chargers (like the F-150 Lightning) may require evaluation of your existing load.

Can I get a rebate for a panel upgrade?

Some states and utilities offer rebates for panel upgrades when paired with EV chargers or heat pumps. California's TECH Clean program and some utility rebates cover panel upgrades. Ask your electrician or check your state energy office.

Quick answer: A home with 60A existing load adding an EV charger (60A) needs at least a 200A panel upgrade; 10kW solar may push you to 320A service depending on location and load growth.

Home & Homelab

Electrical Panel Upgrade Calculator

Find the right panel size for your home's current and future electrical needs — solar, EV, heat pumps, and whole-home electrification.

Inputs

Current panel size

Primary reason for upgrade

A 60A EV charger circuit requires a 200A panel with remaining headroom.

Future / planned appliances

Home size

Recommended panel size

200A

Est. load: 140A · 175A with 25% headroom

Upgrade cost estimate

$1,800–$4,000

Recommended size includes both your projected load and the selected upgrade trigger.

Reason-driven minimum

The selected trigger sets a minimum recommendation of 200A before future-load headroom is applied.

Typical uses — 200A

Most modern homes. Handles electric heat, central AC, EV charger (40–50A)

Why upgrade?

Industry standard for new construction. Required for most EV charger installs.

Timeline: Panel upgrades typically take 1 day for the electrician but 1–4 weeks for utility reconnection scheduling.

Incentives: Some states offer rebates for panel upgrades paired with EV charger or solar installations. Check your state's energy office.

Licensed electricians · Permit required

Get panel upgrade quotes

Panel upgrades involve your utility company and require a permit. Typical timeline: 1 day for the electrician, 1–4 weeks for utility reconnection scheduling.

Estimated cost: $1,800–$4,000

Get free quotes on Angi →

How we calculate panel upgrade sizing

The calculator combines your current panel size, projected new loads, and upgrade trigger (EV, solar, electrification, or obsolete panel) to recommend the minimum panel amperage needed. Obsolete or discontinued panels can justify replacement even when the service size is technically workable.

Required Service = Existing Load + New Loads ÷ 0.8

Cost estimates range from $1,500–$12,000 depending on panel size, local labor rates, and whether utility coordination is required. Federal rebates may apply when paired with EV charging or heat pump installations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What panel size do I need for solar?: Most residential solar systems (up to 10 kW) can be installed on a 200A panel. Larger systems, or systems with a whole-home battery, may require 320A or 400A service.
Is 200A enough for an EV charger?: Yes, for most EVs. A 200A panel can handle a 40–60A EV charging circuit alongside normal household loads. Trucks with 19.2kW onboard chargers (like the F-150 Lightning) may require evaluation of your existing load.
Can I get a rebate for a panel upgrade?: Some states and utilities offer rebates for panel upgrades when paired with EV chargers or heat pumps. California's TECH Clean program and some utility rebates cover panel upgrades. Ask your electrician or check your state energy office.

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Electrical Panel Upgrade Calculator

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Reviewed April 2026

Methodology and source note

PowerSizing calculators use shared formulas, documented assumptions, and current planning inputs that are summarized on the methodology page. Use these tools for first-pass planning, comparison, and sanity checks, then confirm local code, pricing, utility tariff, and installer specifics before you buy equipment.