Electrification is a wonderful goal and a real electrical-load problem. Swap gas for induction, add a heat pump, plug in an EV, wire a battery — individually each is fine, but together they can overwhelm the panel and service in an older Bay Area home. In 2026, the panel is where a lot of remodels quietly hinge.
The math homeowners miss
Many Peninsula homes still run 100-amp service sized for a 1960s all-gas household. Modern electric loads can push past that. Before committing to electric appliances, we run a load calculation — not a guess — to see what the existing service actually supports.
Your options when it's tight
- 200A panel/service upgrade — the straightforward fix, typically $6,000–$12,000 depending on the utility's involvement.
- Smart panels and load management — devices that juggle circuits so you can add loads without a full service upgrade.
- Circuit-sharing EV chargers and 120V-capable heat pumps that sip less power.
Do it once
The costly mistake is electrifying piecemeal — upgrading the panel for induction, then discovering the EV charger and heat pump need more. If electrification is your direction, size the service for the whole plan up front, even if you install the pieces over a few years.
Planning to electrify? Let's check your panel first. Request a free estimate or call us at (844) 403-2911.
Planning a Bay Area remodel?
High Touch Consulting & Development is a licensed general contractor serving the San Francisco Peninsula and Silicon Valley. We provide free on-site consultations and fixed-scope written proposals.
