Costs of installing a power current
Costs of installing three-phase power 2026
The installation of three-phase power costs on average between €750 and €1,100, depending on the necessary adjustments to the distribution board and the distance to the new connection. Installing three-phase power involves the setup of a 3-phase connection (400V) that can power heavy appliances such as induction hobs, charging stations, and heat pumps. In this price guide, you can read exactly what determines the costs for installing three-phase power and what you should look out for.
Table of Contents
- What does installing three-phase power cost?
- Costs of three-phase power per connection type
- Factors determining the price for installing three-phase power
- Additional costs and surcharges
- How does the professional work when installing three-phase power?
- How can you save on installing three-phase power?
- Common signs that three-phase power is needed
- Find the best electrician for installing three-phase power
- Frequently asked questions about installing three-phase power
- Book an electrician for installing three-phase power
- Useful links
What does installing three-phase power cost?
The costs for installing three-phase power range on average between €750 and €1,100 per project. This rate is determined by the network operator based on the connection capacity of your electricity meter. Additionally, you pay the professional for adjusting the distribution board and installing extra groups.
Many modern homes already have a 3-phase connection (400V). You can check this by looking at the main switch in the distribution board: three switches next to each other or one triple-pole switch indicates an existing 3-phase connection. The difference with regular electricity (1-phase, 230V) lies in the delivery: regular electricity is supplied via two wires, while three-phase power is supplied via three live wires and a neutral wire, allowing up to three times more power to be delivered.
Costs per type of work
| Type of work | Costs |
|---|---|
| Extra group in distribution board | €175 - €200 per group |
| Fixed price for installing three-phase power | €325 |
The fixed price of €325 covers the installation work by the professional. Installing extra groups in the distribution board is often necessary to safely connect new appliances.
Costs for installing three-phase power per electricity meter
| Electricity meter | Connection rate |
|---|---|
| up to 3 x 25 Amp. | €750 |
| 3 x 25 Amp. up to 3 x 35 Amp. | €900 |
| 3 x 35 Amp. up to 3 x 50 Amp. | €900 |
| 3 x 50 Amp. up to 3 x 63 Amp. | €1,100 |
| 3 x 63 Amp. up to 3 x 80 Amp. | €1,100 |
These rates are charged by the network operator and depend on the capacity you need. The higher the ampere value, the heavier the appliances you can connect.
The mentioned prices include 21% VAT. The rates for the network connection are invoiced directly by the network operator.
Costs of three-phase power per connection type
The costs for installing three-phase power vary per situation. If your home already has a 3-phase connection, you only pay for an extra group in the distribution board and the fixed installation price. If you do not yet have three-phase power, the costs for the network connection will be added. The cheapest scenario is adding an extra group (€175), the most expensive is requesting a full 3 x 80 Amp. connection (€1,100 network operator + €325 installation).
| Type of work | Costs |
|---|---|
| Extra group in distribution board | €175 - €200 per group |
| Fixed price for installing three-phase power | €325 per project |
| up to 3 x 25 Amp. | €750 |
| 3 x 25 Amp. up to 3 x 35 Amp. | €900 |
| 3 x 35 Amp. up to 3 x 50 Amp. | €900 |
| 3 x 50 Amp. up to 3 x 63 Amp. | €1,100 |
| 3 x 63 Amp. up to 3 x 80 Amp. | €1,100 |
Factors determining the price for installing three-phase power
The costs for installing three-phase power vary per situation. The total price is determined by a combination of factors: the required capacity of the connection, the condition of your distribution board, the distance to the outlet to be installed and the complexity of the installation work.
Required connection capacity
The higher the ampere value you need, the more you pay to the network operator. A 3 x 25 Ampere connection costs €750, while a 3 x 80 Ampere connection costs €1,100. A heavier connection requires more capacity on the electricity grid and therefore more technical work by the network operator.
Upgrade or full 3-phase connection
Sometimes an upgrade of your existing 1-phase connection (for example from 1 x 25A to 1 x 35A) is sufficient. This is cheaper than installing a full 3-phase power connection. An upgrade is suitable for devices that use a lot of power but do not require a higher voltage (400V), such as some electrical ovens.
Condition of the distribution board
Older distribution boards often have a main switch rated for only 1 x 25 Ampere. To use three-phase power, this must be replaced by a 3-phase main switch. This replacement requires extra work and materials, which increases the costs.
Distance between distribution board and outlet
The longer the distance, the more expensive the job. Longer cable runs require thicker cables to prevent voltage drop. This means more material costs and longer installation time.
Trenching and penetrations
If cables have to go through walls or trenches need to be milled, labour costs rise significantly. Visible wiring (in cable ducts) is cheaper than concealed cables, but not always possible or desired.
Extra groups in the distribution board
Multiple heavy appliances cannot be connected without limit to one group. Per extra group, you pay an average of €175 to €200. Each group requires a separate RCD and safety components.
Type of outlet
A CEE outlet (round industrial plug) costs more than a standard Perilex outlet. The difference lies in the materials required and the time to install.
Urgency versus planned work
Urgent jobs are more expensive because the electrician has to adjust his planning. Planned work is more efficient and costs less.
Weekend or evening work
Work in the weekend costs more than during the week due to surcharges. The same applies to jobs in the evening hours.
Region
In large cities, prices are often higher than in rural areas due to higher overhead costs for professionals.
Accessibility of the workplace
If the distribution board is difficult to reach or the workplace needs to be cleared first, it takes extra time. Good preparation saves costs.
Ongoing network operator costs
A heavier connection involves a higher standing charge from the network operator. This is a monthly cost in addition to the one-off installation costs.
Materials used
The price of cables, RCDs and other safety components varies by supplier and quality. High-quality materials cost more but last longer.
Additional costs and surcharges
The costs for installing three-phase power can vary due to situation-dependent surcharges and extra work. At Zoofy, you do not pay call-out charges.
- Urgent jobs involve a surcharge because the connected professionals must adjust their schedule
- Work in the weekend is more expensive than during the week due to the weekend surcharge
- Outdated distribution boards that do not meet current standards may need to be replaced before three-phase power can be installed
- Extra groups are necessary if the distribution board is full and new connections cannot be safely accommodated
- Trenching through walls or floors significantly increases labour costs
- Old aluminium wiring must be replaced with copper cables
- Repair work to walls or tiling after installation is situation-dependent
How does the professional work when installing three-phase power?
The installation of a three-phase power connection follows a fixed sequence of steps.
- Determine needs: The electrician inventories which appliances need to be connected and how much power is required. It is determined whether an upgrade of the existing connection is sufficient or if a full 3-phase connection is needed.
- Check current situation: The professional checks if the house already has a 3-phase connection by inspecting the main switch in the distribution board. In older installations, the main switch may need to be replaced before work can begin.
- Application to network operator: If a heavier network connection is required, this is requested from the network operator. The waiting time is usually several weeks, depending on the schedule.
- Adjustment of distribution board: The electrician installs the necessary groups, RCDs and a possible new main switch for 3-phase. Each group gets its own protection according to NEN1010 standards.
- Pulling cable: Cables are pulled from the distribution board to the location of the outlet. For longer distances, the professional uses thicker cables to prevent voltage drop.
- Installation of outlet: The three-phase power outlet (CEE or Perilex) is installed and connected to the new group.
- Inspection and commissioning: The installation is tested for safe operation. The entire job takes on average 2 to 4 hours, excluding any trenching or waiting time for the network operator.
How can you save on installing three-phase power?
There are several ways to lower the costs for installing three-phase power.
- Combine work: Have multiple three-phase power connection points installed at once if you have several heavy appliances (charging station, hob, heat pump). This saves on labour hours because the professional only has to come once.
- Plan the cable route in advance: Discuss the shortest route for cables with the electrician to prevent unnecessary trenching. Every metre of cable you save lowers both material and labour costs.
- Timing is important: Do not book on the weekend or as an urgent job. During the week and with prior planning, you do not pay surcharges for evening or weekend work.
- Anticipate future use: Think about future expansions such as a charging station or solar panels and install extra groups immediately. This prevents you from having to invest in distribution board adjustments again later.
- Book via Zoofy: You get a fixed rate in advance, with no call-out charges and no surprises. You only pay after completion of the job.
Common signs that three-phase power is needed
Certain signs indicate that your current power supply is insufficient for heavy equipment.
Regular tripping of fuses
If fuses or circuit breakers regularly trip when using appliances such as an induction hob or tumble dryer, the current 1-phase connection has insufficient capacity. This is a direct sign that a 3-phase connection is needed.
Overheating of outlets
Outlets or cables that become warm during use of powerful appliances pose a fire hazard. This happens when the load is too high for the available power supply, meaning an investment in three-phase power quickly pays for itself through increased safety.
Find the best electrician for installing three-phase power
Three-phase power installations must be carried out by a certified electrician who works according to NEN1010 standards.
- No call-out charges: You only pay for the actual work, never extra for the professional's arrival.
- Fixed price in advance: The costs are clear, you know what you are paying without surprises afterwards.
- Quick booking without hassle: Choose a time immediately and book an electrician without long waiting times.
- Payment via QR code after completion: You only pay when the job is completely finished and you are satisfied.
- Reliable, verified professionals: All connected electricians are verified and have good reviews from previous customers.
- Inspection and certification: After installation, a NEN3140 inspection or inspection by the network operator may be necessary to ensure safety. The professional will inform you about this during the work.
- Transparency in costs: When booking, you directly see the fixed rate of €325 for the installation work, so you can budget well.
Frequently asked questions about installing three-phase power
Can you install three-phase power yourself?
No, work on the distribution board and installing three-phase power may only be carried out by a certified electrician due to safety risks and legal requirements. Improper installations pose a fire hazard and lead to liability issues.
How long does the installation of three-phase power take?
The installation itself takes an average of 2 to 4 hours. Keep in mind a few weeks' waiting time at the network operator if a heavier connection is needed. For existing 3-phase connections, the electrician can start immediately.
What is the difference between 3-phase and three-phase power?
This is the same thing. Three-phase power is the common name for a 3-phase connection that delivers 400V instead of the standard 230V. Both terms are used interchangeably.
Do I always have to involve the network operator?
Only if your home does not yet have a 3-phase connection or if you need a heavier connection. If you already have 3-phase, the connected professional can start immediately with installing extra groups.
Can I convert existing outlets to three-phase power?
No, three-phase power requires special outlets such as CEE or Perilex and thicker cabling. Standard outlets are not suitable for the higher voltage and power.
What happens if my distribution board is too old?
An outdated distribution board may need to be replaced or adapted before three-phase power can be installed. This involves extra costs but is necessary for a safe installation according to NEN1010 standards.
What does a heavier connection cost at the network operator?
Costs vary from €750 for a 3 x 25A connection to €1,100 for a 3 x 80A connection. These are one-off costs invoiced directly by the network operator.
Do I get higher monthly bills with three-phase power?
Yes, a heavier connection usually involves higher fixed standing charges at the network operator. This rate is charged monthly in addition to your consumption costs.
Which appliances need three-phase power?
Induction hobs, charging stations for electric cars, heat pumps, saunas, jacuzzis and professional workshop machines often require three-phase power because of their high power consumption.
How do I know if my home already has three-phase power?
Look at the main switch in your distribution board. Three switches next to each other or a triple-pole switch indicates an existing 3-phase connection. If in doubt, an electrician can check this.
Book an electrician for installing three-phase power
Ready to have three-phase power installed? At Zoofy you book a professional directly, without quotes and without call-out charges. You see exactly what it costs in advance, and Zoofy connects you with a reliable professional who has been verified. You only pay when the work is done. Book a professional directly now.