Design, standards and suppliers in Norway
Main distribution board Norway
Elskap AS is a Norwegian manufacturer and supplier of main distribution boards (MDBs), commonly referred to as “hovedfordeling” in Norway.
We deliver a wide range of MDB solutions across Norway, working closely with electrical contractors and project developers.
We supply main distribution boards (MDBs), also known as main switchboards across Norway, working closely with electrical contractors and project developers.
Our solutions are built for real installations – not just specifications – and delivered in accordance with NEK 400 and EN 61439.
Looking for a main distribution board for your project? Contact Elskap AS for a customised solution.
We design and assemble MDBs using Eaton X-energy systems, with solutions ranging from standard installations up to 7100 A for demanding commercial, industrial and infrastructure projects.
Above, you can see a typical example of a main distribution board installation in Norway, designed for real-world use.
At Elskap AS, our main distribution boards are specifically designed for the Norwegian market, with a strong focus on quality, reliability and full compliance with applicable standards.
What is a main distribution board (MDB)?
A main distribution board (MDB) is the central electrical distribution point in a building. It receives power from the main supply and distributes it to sub distribution boards, technical systems and electrical loads.
In Norway, MDBs are typically installed in commercial buildings, apartment complexes and industrial facilities.
We specialise in the design and manufacture of main distribution boards (MDBs), delivering customised solutions tailored to each project.
With extensive experience in the Norwegian market, Elskap AS has become a trusted partner for projects across the country.
Main distribution boards in Norway must meet strict regulatory requirements, and our solutions are developed to ensure full compliance.
It is essential that a main distribution board in Norway is designed with a strong focus on safety and accessibility for all types of users.
When you choose a main distribution board from Elskap AS, every aspect of design, functionality and future expansion is carefully considered.
When you choose Elskap AS, every aspect of design, functionality and future expansion is carefully considered.
We specialise in the design and manufacture of main distribution boards (MDBs), delivering customised solutions tailored to each project.
With extensive experience in the Norwegian market, Elskap AS has become a trusted partner for projects across the country.
Main distribution boards in Norway must meet strict regulatory requirements, and our solutions are developed to ensure full compliance.
Designed with a strong focus on safety and accessibility, our MDBs ensure reliable operation for all types of users.
High-capacity MDB solutions (up to 7100 A)
Modern installations require significantly more power than ever, driven by electrification, EV charging and data centres.
Many standard main distribution boards are designed for capacities up to around 6300 A.
Elskap AS delivers high-capacity solutions up to 7100 A, based on Eaton X-energy Main systems.
Design considerations for main distribution boards in Norway
n Norway, main distribution boards (MDBs) must be designed in accordance with strict requirements related to protection, disconnection times and accessibility.
This includes proper coordination of protection devices, compliance with required disconnection times, and a design that ensures safe and accessible operation and maintenance.
Copper busbar system in a high-capacity MDB :
⚡ Disconnection times and protection
The maximum disconnection time in case of a fault is typically 0.4 seconds (400 ms), depending on the system and protection method.
Residual current protection:
- 100 mA is commonly used for distribution circuits (e.g. risers)
- 30 mA is required for final circuits supplying socket outlets up to 32 A
🔐 Accessibility (skilled vs. unskilled persons)
Distribution boards in Norway must be designed based on who will operate them:
- Ordinary persons (unskilled users)
- Skilled or instructed persons
If the board is intended for operation by ordinary persons, the upstream protective device should not exceed 250 A.
For higher current levels, the board (or parts of it) must be restricted to skilled persons only.
🏗️ Practical design approach
In practice, this is often achieved by dividing the board into sections:
- A main section with higher current (e.g. 630 A, 1250 A or more), restricted to skilled persons
- A separate modular section with:
- Maximum 250 A upstream protection
- Protection level of at least IP2XC
- Accessibility for operation by ordinary users
This ensures both safety and compliance, while allowing flexible and scalable solutions.
Example of a 630 A custom-built main distribution board
Project example – 630 A main distribution board
This 630 A main distribution board (MDB) was designed and built for a commercial installation in Norway, with a focus on reliability, accessibility and efficient installation.
The solution was configured for top cable entry, allowing for a clean and structured installation on site. A robust PEN split and copper busbar system ensure safe and reliable power distribution in accordance with Norwegian requirements.
The internal layout is optimised for serviceability and future expansion, making it well suited for modern installations with increasing power demands.
This main distribution board is installed next to a new sub distribution board in the same room. Due to limited space and specific height constraints, the entire solution was custom-designed to fit the installation requirements.
⚡ All-pole protection in Norwegian installations
In Norway, all final circuits must be protected by all-pole switching devices, meaning that all live conductors must be disconnected during faults or maintenance.
This applies to both IT (230 V) and TN (400 V) systems.
🔌 Treatment of the neutral conductor
In Norwegian installations, the neutral conductor (N) is considered a live conductor and must be disconnected together with the phase conductors.
In TN-S systems, this typically requires:
- 4-pole (4P) circuit breakers
- 3+N breakers
- 1+N breakers
In IT systems, at least 2-pole disconnection is required.
🛠️ Practical implications
Even in installations where single-pole switching is used (e.g. lighting circuits), there must always be a safe method for disconnecting all live conductors, typically by switching off the protective device.
For modular circuit breakers, devices must be at least 1+N, ensuring that the neutral conductor is disconnected simultaneously with, or before, the phase conductor.
⚠️ Why this is critical
Proper disconnection is essential to avoid:
- Floating neutral points
- Voltage imbalance
- Damage to sensitive electronic equipment
It ensures safe operation during maintenance, fault conditions and normal use.
This is a key difference compared to many other countries and must be considered when designing MDBs for the Norwegian market.
Main distribution board suppliers in Norway
Main distribution boards in Norway are delivered by both international manufacturers and local switchboard builders.
Typical system providers include global companies such as ABB and Eaton, as well as Norwegian manufacturers like Elcor.
Elskap AS focuses on custom-built main distribution boards designed for real installations, with emphasis on flexibility, accessibility and future expansion.
Choosing the right supplier is critical for ensuring compliance, reliability and long-term performance.
Elskap AS is a Norwegian manufacturer and supplier of main distribution boards (MDBs) for commercial, industrial and infrastructure projects.
❓ FAQ
What is a main distribution board (MDB)?
A main distribution board distributes power from the main supply to all circuits in a building.
What is the difference between MDB and sub distribution board?
An MDB handles the main incoming power, while sub distribution boards distribute power locally.
What standards apply in Norway?
How large can an MDB be?
Many solutions are designed up to 6300 A, while Elskap AS delivers up to 7100 A.
Are MDBs used in data centres?
Yes, MDBs are essential for reliable power distribution in data centres and critical infrastructure.
What switchboard system is used in Elskap AS main distribution boards (MDBs)?
Elskap AS builds main distribution boards using Eaton X-energy Main systems.
These systems allow for flexible, modular design and support high-current applications up to 7100 A, making them suitable for commercial, industrial and critical infrastructure projects – especially data centres where reliability and scalability are essential.
Looking for a main distribution board (MDB) in Norway?
Elskap AS delivers custom-built solutions designed for real installations – with a strong focus on flexibility, safety and future expansion.
