Main distribution boards for modern electrification and high-capacity installations
Our main distribution boards are built to handle today’s and future electrical demands in commercial, industrial and large-scale installations.
See our main distribution board solutions here
The solutions are flexible, scalable and designed to meet increasing requirements for electrification, energy management and power distribution.
- High current capacity for demanding installations
- Modular and flexible design
- Prepared for EV charging, solar and energy storage
- Custom-built for each project
- Ready for future expansion
A power distribution board (MDB) is the central point of electrical distribution in a building or facility. It receives power from the main supply and distributes it to sub distribution boards and electrical loads.
The terms main distribution board and main switchboard are often used interchangeably and describe the same function – the primary point of power distribution.
At Elskap AS, we design and manufacture main distribution boards for residential, commercial and industrial projects – always engineered for load capacity, selectivity and future expansion.
What is a main distribution board?
A main distribution board is the central hub of the electrical installation. It is where:
- power enters the building
- electricity is distributed to sub systems
- protection devices ensure safety and reliability
A properly designed main distribution board ensures:
- stable operation
- high level of safety
- correct selectivity throughout the system
No installations are the same
Every project has unique requirements. That is why we do not deliver standard off-the-shelf solutions – each distribution board is designed based on the actual needs of the installation.
In practice, this means the right balance between:
- capacity
- accessibility
- flexibility
Increasing power demand, electrification and grid requirements make it essential to think long-term already in the design phase.
Design and requirements
A modern distribution board must be designed with both current and future requirements in mind.
A well-structured solution includes:
- clear layout and overview
- sufficient space for cabling
- proper routing of conductors
- easy access for installation and maintenance
This results in:
- faster installation
- fewer errors on site
- improved long-term performance
Main distribution boards are designed in accordance with relevant standards such as
EN 61439, which defines requirements for low-voltage switchgear assemblies.
This ensures:
- verified performance under real conditions
- documented quality
- compliance with European standards
- long-term operational reliability
Metering and requirements according to REN 4002
In larger installations, especially transformer-metered systems, requirements are defined for how metering systems must be integrated.
This typically includes:
- energy meters
- meter switching devices
- voltage protection
- current transformers
These components are often required to be placed in the same section of the main distribution board.
This affects:
- space requirements
- layout
- accessibility
Choosing the right solution ensures compliance with both current and future grid requirements.
See our detailed guide on main distribution board Norway design and standards
From main distribution to the rest of the installation
The main distribution board connects the power supply to the rest of the electrical system.
Power is distributed to:
- sub distribution boards
- floor distribution boards
- technical systems
A well-designed structure provides:
- better overview
- easier operation
- increased flexibility
How we build main distribution boards
At Elskap AS, each distribution board is built with focus on practical installation, quality and long-term reliability.
Typical process:
- project planning in cooperation with the customer
- load and capacity calculations
- custom design of copper busbars
- manufacturing and assembly
- preparation for fast and efficient installation
Copper busbars – the backbone of the system
The busbar system is a critical part of the distribution board and is always designed according to load and configuration.
All busbars are:
- dimensioned for correct current capacity
- physically adapted to the solution
- pre-fabricated and prepared before delivery
This results in:
- faster installation
- higher quality
- reduced risk of errors
Example from practice
We recently delivered a main distribution board to a large project, where the entire solution was custom-built with pre-fabricated copper busbars ready for installation.
This is a good example of how proper engineering results in:
- efficient installation
- improved workflow on site
- safe and stable operation
A reliable main distribution board is essential for ensuring stability and efficiency in power distribution.
Specialists in main distribution boards
A main distribution board requires high standards in design, construction and operation. Elskap AS delivers solutions tailored to each project – for residential, commercial and industrial use.
We focus on:
- correct dimensioning
- proper selectivity
- clean and structured design
- flexibility for future upgrades
Ready for the right solution?
Choosing the right distribution board is not only about capacity – it is about building a system that works in real life, both today and in the future.
👉 Contact us for a tailored solution, or explore our connection cabinets and electrical distribution systems.
Frequently asked questions about main distribution boards
What is the difference between a main distribution board and a sub distribution board?
The main distribution board is the primary distribution point, while sub distribution boards distribute power further to smaller areas within the building.
How much capacity can a main distribution board handle?
Capacity depends on the design and can be engineered for very high current levels in commercial and industrial installations.
Can the distribution board be customized?
Yes, all solutions are designed based on project requirements and technical specifications.
Is the distribution board delivered complete?
Yes, our solutions are delivered fully assembled and ready for installation.
What should be considered when selecting a main distribution board?
Key factors include power demand, selectivity, future expansion, available space and grid requirements.
See also our sub distribution boards for efficient local power distribution.
Looking for more technical information?
Read our guide on MDB Norway
