Electrical Meters
August 2025
Thinking about installing a new BELCO meter or upgrading an existing one? This guide explains when you need one, how to apply and which documents to include.
BELCO can only switch on a meter after a Certificate of Completion and Occupancy (either Partial or Full, depending on the scope of works) has been issued by the Department of Planning. This is required under Section 106.6 of the Bermuda Building Code 2014/25 (‘BBC’).
✅ You can apply for a new electric meter if:
- You’re installing a meter for an approved dwelling unit (each approved dwelling unit must have a separate meter)
- You’re replacing a meter as part of a renovation which involves electrical work
- You’re upgrading the power supply (for example 100A to 200A) You need a utility meter for common equipment in multi-dwelling property (e.g., communal laundry facilities, water/ booster pumps, lighting for shared hallways/exterior areas, HVAC systems serving common spaces, etc.)
- You’re installing a net meter following a photovoltaic (PV) solar panel installation
⚠️Guest units, Pool Houses, or similar
A guest unit, pool house and other similar spaces are not considered separate dwellings and require planning approval for their conversion to a residential unit before an extra meter can be installed.
How do I apply?
All applications must be submitted through the Department of Planning’s Customer Self-Service (‘CSS’) portal.
You must have a registered account on the CSS before submitting. Click here to create an account if you don’t already have one -> Create a CSS Account
Once logged into your account, click on ‘Apply’ to see the list of application types available.
Which type of Application do I need to submit?
If you are ONLY installing a new meter or upgrading an existing one, you’ll need to submit a Permitted Development Permit (PDP) application.
Choose the Permitted Development (Commercial) or Permitted Development (Residential) option, based on the type of property.
If the meter installation or upgrade is part of a larger project, it should be included in the details submitted as part of a Building Permit application, in association with an approved Final Planning Application for Development (DAP 1).
What should I include in my application?
If the application for a meter is a part of a larger project, permit drawings, details and specifications should follow the guidance in Section 34 – Appendix A of the BBC.
Permit applications solely for utility meters and supply upgrades must include the following (drawings shown are for illustrative purposes only):
1. Permit Description
Include details of the requirement and the purpose of the meter
Example: “Upgrade existing meter from 100A to 200A”
2. Location Plan
• An area plan of a site showing roads, access points and neighbouring properties
• The boundary of the subject property must be highlighted in red
3. Site Plan
• Property boundaries (highlighted in red)
• Location of the proposed and/or existing BELCO meter(s) clearly labelled
4. Photographs
• A close-up photograph of the existing meter or proposed meter location
• A wider view photo showing where it sits in relation to the building/site
5. Supporting Letter
If the application is for an additional meter (not a replacement or upgrade), a short letter detailing the purpose of the meter should be included.
Example: This meter is intended to be a utility meter for the water pump and site lighting so that the cost can be equally shared between the three tenants.
Letters of objection and/or representation should be emailed to planningfrontdesk@gov.bm referencing the PLAN or SUB number in the subject line.