I am building new camp at a site that already has 200 amp service. My power requirements are small and 100 amp will be more than sufficient. Is there any reason I cannot hookup a 100 amp panel to the 200 amp meter socket? Not sure is code allows this. I want to use a small 100 amp panel vs the larger 200 amp.

Thanks

ballengerb1

Why go through the expense of installing a smaller panel when what you have is already more than you need? You will not save money or electricity. Did I miss something?

Okeyt

There is no existing panel, only power drop with 200 amp meter socket. I need to install panel and tie into the meter socket. Camp is only 12x20 in size and wanted to keep panel physical size to minimum.

labman

You could run into problems with the wire sizes. The 100 amp breaker might not take the larger wire. As far as code goes, I wouldn't take the word of anybody here but tkrussel.

tkrussell

Sure, as long as at the meter, or at the panel, there is a 100 amp main breaker. This will limit the load placed on the meter to 100 amps. The 20 amp capacity feeding the meter will be irrelevant.

Okeyt

Sounds like I have my answer. Thanks for all the quick responses.