“Distribution panel” and “distribution board” get used interchangeably in casual conversation on Nigerian sites, but on a real single-line diagram they sit at different points in the power chain — mixing them up on a BOQ is a common source of costly mis-ordering.
Where does each one sit in the power chain?
Power typically flows from the transformer or generator into a main distribution panel, then to sub-distribution panels per floor or zone, and finally into distribution boards (DBs) that feed the individual final circuits — sockets, lighting, and small appliances.
A distribution panel is the larger, upstream equipment feeding multiple boards or heavy loads directly; a distribution board is the smaller, final-circuit board closest to the end user.
How does this affect what you order?
If a project needs equipment to receive power directly from a transformer or generator and split it to multiple downstream boards or large plant, that’s a distribution panel, custom-built to the site’s single-line diagram — not an off-the-shelf distribution board.
- Distribution board (DB) — final circuits, typically off-the-shelf sizes, 4-way to 72-way
- Distribution panel — custom-built to current rating and load schedule, up to 6000A on larger projects
- Motor control centre (MCC) — a specialized panel type for industrial motor loads
Who typically needs a custom distribution panel rather than a standard DB?
M&E contractors on commercial towers, industrial facility owners, and EPC contractors on utility and manufacturing sites are the main buyers of custom distribution panels — residential and small commercial projects almost always only need distribution boards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Fembosco supply both from one order?
Yes — Fembosco designs and builds distribution panels in-house and stocks distribution boards, so a project needing both doesn’t need two separate suppliers.
What does Fembosco need to quote a distribution panel?
A single-line diagram or, at minimum, the required current rating and load schedule lets Fembosco’s engineers put together an accurate panel specification.
Conclusion
If in doubt, check where the equipment sits on the single-line diagram — anything receiving power directly from the transformer or generator and feeding multiple downstream boards is a distribution panel; anything feeding individual final circuits is a distribution board.