Planning meter cabinets correctly – dimensioning and future-proofing
The meter cabinet is the heart of every electrical installation. This is where all the circuits come together, where the fuses, RCDs, and, increasingly, smart home components are located. Forward planning saves costs and hassle later on, because retrofitting the meter cabinet is time-consuming and expensive.
Quick info Meter cabinet
- At least 4 rows for single-family homes (preferably 5–6)
- Plan for 30% reserve space for wallbox, PV, heat pump
- The local network operator's TAB is binding.
Construction of a meter cabinet
A modern meter cabinet consists of three main areas, each of which performs specific functions.
counter panel
This is where the electricity meter (nowadays usually a digital smart meter) is located. The grid operator specifies the requirements in the TAB (technical connection conditions).
distribution panel
Contains all circuit breakers, residual current circuit breakers, and surge protection. This is where the individual circuits are protected and distributed.
multimedia field
Space for routers, patch panels, fiber optic connections, and smart home hubs. This is becoming increasingly important and should be included as standard in new buildings.
Correct dimensioning – How many rows do I need?
| building type | Recommended series | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment (up to 80 m²) | 3–4 | Basic services, little need for expansion |
| single-family home | 5–6 | Wallbox, PV, and smart home can be planned |
| Fully equipped detached house | 7+ | Wallbox + PV + heat pump + smart home |
TAB requirements of the network operator
What is TAB?
The Technical Connection Conditions (TAB) are binding specifications issued by the local grid operator. Among other things, they regulate the type of meter cabinet, meter space size, fuse arrangement, and connected load.
Typical TAB specifications
Meter cabinet in accordance with DIN 43870, sealable main fuse, SLS switch (selective line protection switch) upstream of the meter, defined installation location for type 1+2 surge protection.
Labeling and documentation
Each circuit must be clearly labeled. Clear distribution documentation greatly facilitates subsequent maintenance and troubleshooting.
Future security – planning reserves for tomorrow
The energy transition places new demands on meter cabinets. Plan reserve space for these additions:
Wallbox (e-mobility)
Separate circuit with 16–32 A, own FI type B or EV. Reserve at least 3 space units.
photovoltaic system
Feed-in meter, DC/AC surge protection, battery storage connection if necessary. Allow for 4–6 space units.
heat pump
Separate meter space for heat pump tariff, separate RCD and circuit breaker. Plan for 3–4 space units.
smart home
DIN rail power supplies, KNX actuators, switching relays. Requires 2–8 space units depending on the system.
How much does a well-planned meter cabinet cost?
The costs depend on size, equipment, and installation expenses.
| component | Costs (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Meter cabinet (housing) | 300–800 € |
| Installation components (FI, LS, SPD, SLS) | 500–1.500 € |
| Electrical work (wiring, installation) | 400–1.000 € |
| Total costs (detached house, standard fittings) | 1.200–3.300 € |
Practical tips for meter cabinet planning
1. Always plan for 30% reserve space
Retrofitting extensions in the meter cabinet is costly. Planning for reserves today will save you hundreds of euros tomorrow for cabinet conversion.
2. Read the local network operator's TAB BEFORE planning
Every network operator has its own requirements. Obtain the latest TAB at an early stage—it determines the cabinet type, meter locations, and fuse arrangement.
3. Provide multimedia field directly
A multimedia panel for fiber optics, routers, and patch panels costs little extra during initial installation, but is difficult to retrofit later on.
4. Plan for DIN rail power supply for smart home actuators
KNX, Loxone, or Shelly actuators require space and power in the control cabinet. A 24V DIN rail power supply and sufficient space are the basis.
Conclusion: Planning generously pays off
A well-planned meter cabinet is the basis for a safe and expandable electrical installation. It is better to invest in a larger cabinet with reserves than to have to carry out expensive conversions later on.
Tip: Have your electrician draw up a distribution plan before ordering the cabinet.