How to Build an Electrical Panel Schedule from a Load List

The panel schedule is the deliverable that ties load calculation, breaker selection, and the BOM together. Here is how to assemble one that balances cleanly and passes review.

Start with the circuit list

List every branch circuit with: description, load type (lighting, convenience outlet, aircon, kitchen, motor), connected VA, and the breaker rating and poles. Group by area so the schedule reads logically.

Assign circuits to phases

For a single-phase 3-wire panel, alternate circuits between L1 and L2. For a 3-phase 4-wire panel, rotate L1–L2–L3. Place large fixed loads (aircon, water heater, range) deliberately so no phase carries a disproportionate share.

Aim for under 10%. Large imbalance causes neutral current, uneven voltage drop, and nuisance tripping.

Connected vs demand load

Sum the connected VA per phase, then apply PEC demand factors by load category (general lighting, receptacles, appliances, largest motor at 125%). The demand load drives the feeder and main breaker; the connected load drives the bus rating.

Spare capacity and spaces

• Provide at least 25% spare on the main breaker for future load.
• Leave 20–30% of the pole positions as labelled SPARE or SPACE.
• Do not fill a 24-way panel to 24 circuits on day one.

Size the main and bus

Select the main breaker at the next standard size above the demand current plus spare. Select the bus rating at or above the main breaker. Verify the enclosure short-circuit rating against the available fault current at that point in the system.

What the finished schedule shows

Circuit number, description, breaker A/poles, wire size and conduit, connected VA, phase assignment, per-phase subtotals, total connected and demand load, main breaker, and panel bus rating — plus a feeder callout linking it to its upstream source.