Okay, let's break down your situation and the relevant code requirements.

Understanding the Terminology (Key)



Service

The conductors and equipment that deliver electrical power from the utility company to your building. It typically ends at the service disconnecting means (main breaker).

Service Disconnecting Means

This is the main breaker that disconnects the entire service. It's the point where the utility's responsibility ends and your electrical system begins.

Feeder

Conductors that run from the service disconnecting means (or a distribution panel connected to the service disconnecting means) to a subpanel. A feeder's primary purpose is to distribute power to a downstream panel.

Subpanel (Distribution Panel)

A panel located downstream of the service disconnecting means, fed by a feeder. It contains branch circuit breakers that supply power to individual circuits (lights, outlets, appliances).

I-Line Panel

This refers to a specific type of panel manufactured by Square D. I-Line panels are known for their high ampacity and modular design, where breakers plug directly onto the busbars without the need for screws.

Your Scenario (Remote Service, Home)

You have a service located remotely from the actual residence. This means you are, in fact, dealing with feeders running from the service location to the house. You have a service with a single disconnect feeding an I-line panel.

Answering Your Question: Multiple Feeders from a Single Panel

Yes, you can run multiple feeders from the I-Line panel to different areas (subpanels) within the home, provided you meet all the code requirements. This is a common and acceptable practice.

Code Considerations and Requirements (NEC - National Electrical Code - always consult the latest version and local amendments)


Feeder Overcurrent Protection

Each feeder must have its own overcurrent protection (circuit breaker or fuses) at the point where it originates from the I-Line panel. The size of this overcurrent protection device must be sized correctly based on the ampacity of the feeder conductors.2.

Feeder Conductor Sizing

The feeder conductors must be sized to carry the calculated load of the subpanel they serve. This involves calculating the total load of all the branch circuits in the subpanel, applying demand factors as permitted by the NEC (e.g., for ranges, dryers, heating/cooling). The feeder conductors must have an ampacity equal to or greater than the calculated load, but not less than 30 amps (NEC 215.3).
3.

Grounding and Bonding



Equipment Grounding Conductor (EGC)

Each feeder must include an equipment grounding conductor (EGC) run with the circuit conductors. The EGC connects the metal enclosures of the subpanel and the I-Line panel back to the grounding electrode system at the service location. It provides a low-impedance path for fault current to return to the source, tripping the overcurrent protection device quickly.

Neutral-Ground Bond

Only at the service disconnecting means (the main panel connected to the meter) should the neutral conductor be bonded to the grounding electrode system.

In the subpanels fed by the feeders, the neutral conductor MUST be isolated from the enclosure and the grounding system. Bonding the neutral to ground in multiple locations creates parallel paths for neutral current, which can cause unwanted current flow on the EGC, leading to potential shock hazards and interference with sensitive electronic equipment. This is a crucial safety point!4. Disconnecting Means at Each Subpanel

Each subpanel must have a main breaker or set of breakers that serves as a disconnecting means for the entire panel. This allows you to de-energize the subpanel for maintenance or in an emergency.5.

Wiring Methods

The feeder conductors must be installed using approved wiring methods (e.g., conduit, cable) suitable for the location and environment. Consider burial depth requirements if the feeders are run underground.6.

Ampacity of the I-Line Panel

Ensure that the I-Line panel has sufficient ampacity to handle the total load of all the branch circuits and the feeders you are adding. You don't want to overload the main panel.7.

Load Calculations

Performing accurate load calculations is essential to ensure that you are not overloading the service, the main panel, or any of the feeders. The NEC provides detailed rules for load calculations. If you're not familiar with these calculations, consult with a qualified electrician.8.

Permits and Inspections

Contact your local electrical inspector and obtain the necessary permits before starting any electrical work. Electrical work typically requires inspection to ensure compliance with the NEC and local codes.9.

Working Space

Ensure adequate working space (clearance) around the panels.10.

Feeder Identification

Clearly label each feeder at both the origin (I-Line panel) and the destination (subpanel) to indicate what the feeder supplies.

Example Scenario

Let's say you have a 200A service feeding your I-Line panel. You want to run two feeders:

Feeder 1

A 100A feeder to a subpanel in the main living area to supply lighting, receptacles, and general appliances.

Feeder 2

A 60A feeder to a subpanel in the detached garage for power tools and lighting.You would need: A 100A breaker in the I-Line panel to protect Feeder 1. A 60A breaker in the I-Line panel to protect Feeder 2. Properly sized conductors for each feeder based on the ampacity of the breakers and the load calculations for each subpanel. An equipment grounding conductor (EGC) run with each feeder. A disconnecting means (main breaker) in each subpanel (100A in the main living area subpanel, 60A in the garage subpanel). The neutral-ground bond is only at the service location. The neutrals are isolated in the subpanels.

Important Safety Considerations



Working with Electricity is Dangerous

If you are not experienced and knowledgeable in electrical work, do not attempt this yourself. Hire a qualified, licensed electrician. Incorrect wiring can lead to fire, electric shock, and even death.

De-Energize Before Working

Always de-energize the circuit you are working on at the breaker before touching any wires. Verify that the circuit is de-energized with a voltage tester.

Lockout/Tagout

Use lockout/tagout procedures to prevent accidental re-energization of the circuit while you are working on it.

Use Proper Tools and PPE

Use insulated tools and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses and gloves.

In summary: You can run multiple feeders from your I-Line panel to different areas of your home, but you must* do so safely and in accordance with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and your local electrical codes. It is highly recommended that you consult with a qualified electrician to ensure that the work is done correctly and safely. They can perform the necessary load calculations, select the correct wiring methods and components, and ensure that the installation meets all applicable codes. Flag for review