I am moving my sub panel and upgrading to a 200 amp service, but in phases. The first phase is to move the panel due to some remodeling. I want to put a 200 amp panel in the laundry room with a 200 amp breaker. I have 100 amp feeder wire going to it (AL 2/2/2). Outside I have the meter can and a 100 amp lug with 100 amp main breaker feeding the sub panel. Is this OK since the service is protected by the 100 amp breaker outside? Eventually, when I upgrade to 200 amps, I will get rid of the outside main which is why I want the breaker inside instead of a lug. I have reasons for doing this. Elderly couple.. don't want them walking through rough terrain in the dark if the main trips. I want all panel access from inside.

I'm pretty sure I read correctly that this is fine, but want to double check on this forum..

Thanks for the advice.

Yes, you can protect a 200 amp panel with a 100 amp breaker.

However, you may not be able to eliminate the outdoor Main, as the cable from the meter to the Main in a panel is unprotected, and is only allowed to be a very short distance of cable once the cable enters the building, as quoted by Code "nearest the point of entrance of the service conductors"

If the Main to be located in the laundry room would be on or close to the exterior wall where the service cable will enter, then fine, the exterior disconnect may be eliminated.

Some local codes and utilities will require the Main to be located outdoors so you will need to consult with both.

If the Main tripping is a concern, emergency lighting units placed to illuminate the path to the Main may be helpful.

I think I understand what you are doing. And it seems OK and that you have thought it out. Now tell it to the AHJ and see what they say. And do you have a 200 amp service supplied by the POCO? You need to involved the AHJ and the POCO for this remodel, no matter how well you plan it out.