In an apartment building, the electrical service and meter centers are the backbone everything else hangs on. Decisions made here early in design affect cost, schedule, utility coordination and how easily the building can grow. Here is what Connecticut developers and general contractors should plan for.
Size the service for real loads
Service size is driven by the load calculation: unit count, heating and cooling type, cooking, common areas, elevators, and any EV charging. All-electric buildings with heat pumps and induction ranges carry very different loads from gas-heated buildings, so the mechanical design needs to be settled before the service is. Oversizing wastes money on gear and utility fees; undersizing creates expensive problems later.
Start the utility process early
The utility’s design, transformer and metering requirements often set the critical path. Applying early, confirming transformer location and pad requirements, and getting metering approval on the drawings keeps energization from holding up occupancy.
Lay out meter centers for the building
- Location: a central electrical room versus distributed meter rooms changes feeder lengths and costs.
- Mixed-use separation: retail tenants usually need their own metering and space for future fit-outs.
- Clearances and access: working space, door swings and utility access must be coordinated with the architect early.
- House loads: common-area lighting, elevators, fire alarm and amenity spaces need their own metered panels.
Release long-lead gear early
Switchgear and meter centers can carry long lead times. Getting submittals approved and gear released early protects the schedule.
Sunderland Electric has built the electrical systems for more than 1,000 apartment units across Connecticut. Send us your drawings and we will review the service design as part of our pricing.