When it comes to a home, what's behind the walls is just as important as the rooms within them.
One of the most critical systems in any new build is the electrical infrastructure, and understanding what comes standard, along with potential upgrades, can help buyers make long term investments in their new build.
What Kind of Panel is in Your Home?
Many newly constructed homes in the U.S. are outfitted with 200-amp electrical panels, designed to support modern energy demands. This service capacity typically handles standard appliances, HVAC systems, lighting, and even a single electric vehicle (EV) charger.
Electrical panels come with certain features, including:
A main breaker shutoff
Multiple circuit breakers (usually 15A or 20A)
Space for future expansion
Ground and neutral bars for safety
For larger homes or those with high electrical demands, such as multiple EVs or electric heating, a 400-amp panel or dual 200-amp panels might be the right call. They can help futureproof the home and increase its resale value.
What is Smart Load Management?
With the rise of electric vehicles, solar panels, and home battery systems, smart load management systems can help to keep track of and regulate energy usage in your home.
These systems monitor real-time electricity use and automatically prioritize which appliances or circuits receive power. This helps avoid potential overloads and supports energy efficiency.
Key capabilities include:
Load shedding: Temporarily turns off non-essential circuits during peak demand.
Energy monitoring: Tracks usage by device or circuit.
Remote access: Many systems are app-connected for control from a smartphone.
Integration: Works with solar, batteries, and home automation platforms.
Smart load management is particularly useful in homes where panel capacity is limited or renewable energy systems are in use.
Other Electrical Features Buyers Should Know
EV Charging Infrastructure: A growing number of homes are now built EV-ready, with pre-installed 240V circuits or at least conduit in place for future charger installation.
Solar-Ready Panels: In states like California, builders must include solar-ready wiring in new homes. Even where not required, some developers leave space in the panel and install conduit to support future solar upgrades.
Whole-Home Surge Protection: Some homes now come with surge protection devices at the panel level to safeguard electronics and appliances from voltage spikes.
Smart Panel Technology: These panels allow users to view energy usage by circuit, set schedules, and even prioritize power during outages; features especially useful when paired with home batteries.
The Bottom Line
Today’s new homes are more energy-dependent and tech-integrated than ever. While most builds come standard with a 200-amp panel, homeowners with plans for EVs, solar, or battery backup should consider upgrades early in the process.
Electrical planning isn’t just about meeting code - it’s about futureproofing. With the right infrastructure in place, homeowners can save time, money, and energy for years to come.
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James Klingele
James Klingele holds a Bachelor of Science in Digital Media Innovation from Texas State University. He is a digital media specialist and content creator with a passion for storytelling in both print and digital formats. His work has included covering high-profile events like SXSW, where he contributed to content creation for global audiences. He has been a content specialist for NewHomeSource since 2024.