Okay, let's break down who's typically responsible for what in a panel upgrade involving a service increase, and how to approach this with your utility company.

Typical Responsibilities



Homeowner/Electrician



Everything after the meter

This includes the new 200A panel, all branch circuit wiring, breakers, grounding, and bonding within your home. You are responsible for getting the permits, hiring a qualified electrician, and ensuring the work meets local and national electrical codes (NEC).

Meter Enclosure (sometimes)

In some cases, you might be responsible for upgrading the meter enclosure if the existing one isn't rated for 200A service. This is something Edison will specify.

Trenching (sometimes)

If the utility requires you to run new conduit from your meter to their transformer, you may be responsible for the trenching.

Utility Company (Edison)



Everything before the meter

This typically includes the service drop (overhead wires from the pole to your house) or underground service lateral (underground wires from the transformer to your meter), the meter itself, and the connection points at the transformer.

Service Upgrade Decision

They determine if the existing service can handle the increased load. They will assess the transformer capacity, the size of the existing service wires, and the overall grid in your area.

Pulling new feeder wires to the meter

In most jurisdictions, the utility is responsible for upgrading the feeder wires from the street to your meter. This is almost certainly the case if they own the meter box.

Your Situation and Steps to Take


Contact Edison First

This is the most important step. Call Edison (or your local utility company) and explain that you are planning a 125A to 200A panel upgrade. Specifically ask them these questions: "I'm planning a 125A to 200A panel upgrade. What are the requirements for the service entrance from the street to the meter? What is your process?" "Is the existing underground service lateral adequate for 200A service?" "Who is responsible for upgrading the service wires from the street to my meter?" "Will I need to upgrade the meter enclosure to handle the 200A service?" "Do you have any specific requirements for the type of meter enclosure I can use?" "Will there be a fee for upgrading the service?" "Do I need to apply for any specific forms?"2.

Document Everything

Keep detailed records of your conversations with Edison, including the date, time, who you spoke with, and the specific information they provided. This can be invaluable if there are any discrepancies later on.3.

Hire a Licensed Electrician

Do this after you've spoken with Edison and understand their requirements. Choose an electrician experienced with service upgrades. They will be able to: Assess your existing electrical system and determine what needs to be done on your side of the meter. Work with Edison to coordinate the service upgrade. Ensure all work meets code. Handle the permitting process.4.

Underground Service Lateral Considerations



Direct Burial

If it is a direct burial cable, it almost certainly needs to be replaced if you're upgrading to 200A. Direct burial cable cannot typically be upsized by pulling new conductors through the existing cable.

Conduit

If it's in conduit, the utility might be able to pull new, larger conductors through the existing conduit. However, they'll need to assess the condition of the conduit and the ease of pulling the new wires. If the conduit is damaged or too small, you might be responsible for trenching and installing new conduit.

Likely Scenario and Things to be Aware of



Edison Will Likely Replace the Service Wires

In most cases, Edison will be responsible for upgrading the service wires from their transformer to your meter, especially if they own the meter box. They need to ensure the entire service is adequate and safe for the increased load.

Potential Costs

While Edison might cover the cost of upgrading the service wires, you might be responsible for: Upgrading the meter enclosure (if required). Trenching (if required, although less common if it's already underground). Fees associated with the service upgrade (some utilities charge a fee).

Coordination

Your electrician and Edison will need to coordinate the timing of the upgrade. Edison will need to disconnect power to your house while the panel is being replaced and then reconnect it once the new service is in place.

Inspection

Your local electrical inspector will need to inspect the work done by your electrician to ensure it meets code. Edison likely has to inspect thier work also.

In summary: Speak with Edison first. Their requirements will dictate the rest of the project. Get everything in writing if possible. Then, hire a qualified electrician who can work with Edison to get the job done safely and correctly. Good luck! Flag for review