A sub-panel extends your electrical distribution without running individual circuits all the way back to the main panel.
A sub-panel (also called a secondary panel or distribution panel) is a smaller panel fed from the main service panel that provides localised circuit distribution for a specific area — a garage, workshop, basement suite, or detached building.
Instead of running multiple long circuits from the main panel across the house, you run one large feeder cable to a sub-panel and distribute circuits from there.
You need a sub-panel when:
- Your main panel is full and needs capacity for new circuits.
- You’re adding a garage workshop with multiple circuits for outlets, lighting, and equipment.
- You’re finishing a basement with multiple new circuits.
- You’re wiring a detached structure (garage, shop, barn, or secondary building) — a sub-panel is required.
- You’re adding a basement suite with separated electrical metering requirements.
Properly sized, correctly fed, and up to code.
Load calculation: we calculate the existing load on the main panel and the new sub-panel load requirement before selecting panel and feeder size 2.
Feeder sizing: the feeder cable (from main to sub-panel) is sized for the sub-panel ampacity — not just current load, but future capacity 3.
Panel selection: 60A, 100A, or 125A sub-panels depending on the application 4.
Feeder installation: proper conduit or direct-buried armoured cable (Teck90) from the main panel to the sub-panel location 5.
Grounding and bonding: separate grounding electrode at the sub-panel for detached structures; neutral-ground separation at sub-panels as required by CEC 6.
Circuit installation: branch circuits from the sub-panel to outlets, lighting, and equipment 7.
Permit and inspection: Alberta Safety Codes Act electrical permit, with inspection before drywall or cover-up.
