Building it in from the start.
WHY IT IS CHEAPER THEN
Separating circuits, running cable and providing space cost a fraction during construction.
WHAT TO SPECIFY EARLY
Separate circuits for essential and non-essential loads Cable routes for future solar and battery installation A location for batteries, ventilated and shaded A location for a generator, ventilated and away from occupied space Adequate earthing
WHY SEPARATE CIRCUITS MATTER MOST
Retrofitting them means opening walls.
WHAT TO PLAN FOR ON THE ROOF
Structural capacity for panels Orientation Cable entry points
WHY EVEN IF SOLAR IS NOT IMMEDIATE
It costs little to prepare and a great deal to retrofit.
WHAT TO CONSIDER ABOUT LAYOUT
Keeping high-consumption equipment on circuits that can be shed Placing the distribution board accessibly
WHAT TO SPECIFY ABOUT PROTECTION
Surge protection at the board Residual current protection where required Correctly rated breakers
WHAT TO INSIST ON
A wiring diagram, as built.
WHY
Every future change depends on knowing what exists.
WHAT TO ARRANGE
Inspection and certification on completion.
WHAT TO KEEP
The certificate, diagram and equipment documentation.
WHAT TO AVOID
Accepting work with no documentation Undersized cable to save cost
WHAT TO BUDGET
Power infrastructure as a distinct line, not an afterthought.
