Cost to Upgrade a 100A Panel to 200A in Baltimore (2026)
What a 100A → 200A panel upgrade really costs in Baltimore, including BGE coordination, permits, and the gotchas that bump the price.
If your home was built before 1990 in Baltimore, there's a good chance you're still running on 100 amps of service. With today's loads — heat pumps, induction ranges, EV chargers — that's no longer enough. Here's what an upgrade actually costs in 2026.
The honest price range
In Baltimore City and surrounding counties, a straightforward 100A → 200A upgrade runs $2,400 to $3,400. That includes the new panel, breakers, meter base, permit, BGE coordination, and inspection.
Most homes don't need an expensive service entrance rebuild — only the meter base and panel. Always get a written quote.
What pushes the price up
- Service entrance cable that's too small or undersized for 200A
- Mast replacement (the pipe out the roof)
- Grounding upgrades to current code
- Panel relocation (moving from outside to inside, or vice versa)
- Old aluminum branch wiring needing pigtails
Permits in Baltimore
Baltimore City requires a DHCD permit and inspection. Surrounding counties (Baltimore, Howard, Anne Arundel) each have their own — but a master electrician handles them all.
Never let an unlicensed handyman do a panel upgrade. It's illegal, your insurance won't cover damage, and BGE won't reconnect your meter.
How long it takes
Power is typically off for 4–6 hours. We coordinate the BGE meter cut and reconnect, do the work, and call for inspection — usually all in one day.
Bottom line
Budget $2,800 for a typical Baltimore row home or split-level. Add $400–$800 if you need a new mast or service entrance cable. Get it in writing before signing anything.