200 Amp Service Upgrade in New Jersey

A 200A service upgrade in NJ typically costs $3,500–$5,500, which includes the new 200A panel, all circuit breakers, grounding and bonding updates, the electrical permit, and the final inspection. If the service entrance cable or meter socket also needs replacement, add $800–$1,500. We provide a written quote at the free estimate with no hidden charges.

Most NJ homes built before 1990 were wired with 100A or 150A service — enough for the electrical loads of that era but insufficient for today's homes. If you are adding an EV charger, heat pump, generator interlock, hot tub, or finishing a basement, a 200A upgrade is often necessary. A 200A service is also required to replace a Federal Pacific, Zinsco, or Pushmatic panel.

A panel upgrade replaces the breaker box (the panel) inside your home. A service upgrade replaces the entire path from the utility — service entrance cable, meter socket, and panel — and increases the amperage capacity of your electrical system. We often do both at once: a full 200A service upgrade includes the panel, the service entrance cable, and coordination with PSE&G for the meter.

Yes. If we are replacing the service entrance cable or meter socket, PSE&G must disconnect power at the utility side while we work. We coordinate this directly with PSE&G and schedule it to minimize your downtime. Most customers are without power for 4–6 hours on installation day. We submit the ESI application to PSE&G on your behalf.

Yes. A 200A service upgrade requires an electrical permit under the NJ Uniform Construction Code. Malfettone Electric pulls the permit, coordinates the inspection, and handles all paperwork. You receive a Certificate of Approval after the final inspection passes — documentation that protects you when you sell the home.

The electrical work itself takes 4–8 hours with our crew. Permit issuance takes 3–10 business days. PSE&G scheduling adds 1–2 weeks for meter work. Final inspection is typically scheduled within 2–5 business days after work completion. Most customers have a Certificate of Approval within 3–4 weeks from contract signing.

Yes, and we recommend it if you need both. Combining the panel upgrade and EV charger installation under one permit saves you on permit fees, scheduling, and inspection time. The total combined cost is typically $4,200–$6,600. We complete both under a single permit and both are inspected together at final walkthrough.