How much does it cost to upgrade a 100-amp to 200-amp panel during a renovation in NB?

Upgrading from a 100-amp to 200-amp electrical panel in New Brunswick typically costs $2,500–$4,500 installed, including the new panel, labour, and TSANB inspection — though the total can climb to $6,000–$8,000+ if the service entrance, meter base, or wiring also needs updating.

This is one of the most common and worthwhile upgrades in older NB homes, particularly in houses built before the 1980s that were originally wired for 100-amp service. Modern homes with electric vehicle chargers, heat pumps, induction ranges, and multiple large appliances routinely push a 100-amp panel to its limits. Upgrading during a renovation is the smartest time to do it — the electrician is already on-site, walls may already be open, and you avoid paying a second mobilization fee later.

The core panel swap itself (new 200-amp breaker panel, labour, and TSANB permit and inspection) runs $2,500–$3,500 in most NB communities. Where costs escalate is the service entrance — the wiring that runs from the utility pole or underground service to your meter base and into the panel. If that wiring is undersized for 200-amp service, it needs replacing too, which adds $1,000–$2,500 depending on the run length and whether it's overhead or underground. NB Power coordinates the utility-side connection, which is separate from your electrician's scope and typically involves a brief service interruption.

NB-Specific Considerations

Older NB housing stock — particularly homes in Saint John, Fredericton, Moncton, and rural communities built in the 1950s through 1970s — frequently has aluminum branch circuit wiring or knob-and-tube wiring alongside the undersized panel. If your electrician discovers aluminum branch wiring during the upgrade, budget an additional $1,500–$3,000 for proper anti-oxidant compound treatment and compatible breakers, or a more comprehensive rewiring scope if knob-and-tube is present. This is exactly the kind of hidden condition that justifies a 15–20% contingency budget on any electrical renovation in an older NB home.

All electrical work in New Brunswick falls under TSANB jurisdiction — this is provincial law, not optional. The permit, inspection, and sign-off are part of every legitimate panel upgrade. Any electrician who suggests skipping the TSANB inspection is a contractor you should walk away from immediately. Beyond the safety implications, an uninspected panel upgrade creates serious problems with your home insurance and will surface as a deficiency during any future home sale.

Practical Tips

Time your panel upgrade to coincide with any kitchen renovation, basement finishing, or addition project — you're already paying for the electrician's time, and the incremental cost of upgrading the panel at the same time is far less than scheduling it as a standalone project later. Get 3+ quotes from licensed NB electricians, and confirm each quote includes the TSANB permit, inspection fee, and any required meter base upgrades. Ask specifically whether the quote covers the full service entrance or just the panel itself — this is where quotes that look cheaper often exclude significant work.

This is strictly a licensed professional job. Electrical panel work is not a DIY task under any circumstances in New Brunswick. Beyond the obvious safety risks of working with live service entrance conductors, the TSANB requires all panel work to be performed by a licensed electrician and inspected before the panel is energized. Your home insurance depends on it.

For more detailed electrical guidance within your renovation project, visit New Brunswick Electrical at newbrunswickelectrical.com. And if you need help finding a licensed electrician in your area, New Brunswick Renovations can connect you with local professionals at no cost.