Hiring site power distribution: connections, equipment and costs
A distribution unit does not generate electricity. It distributes a suitable supply to the required connections. The source, equipment and responsibilities need to be considered together for a relevant quote.
Distinguish supply and distribution
The mains connection, handover cabinet and distribution unit may come from different parties. Renting a unit alone does not confirm a usable site supply. State whether power exists or needs organising. With a generator or mobile battery, the complete combination must be suitable.
Choose for devices and connections
Lights, tools, pumps and large machinery require different connections. State known devices, quantities and simultaneous use. A current rating in amperes does not describe the entire equipment. Sockets, protection, metering and distribution must suit the use; a contractor can clarify unknown technical data.
| Detail | For planning |
|---|---|
| Supply | Existing source and known connection. |
| Loads | Devices, quantities and use. |
| Distribution unit | Suitable sockets, protection and metering. |
Consider location and cable routes
The position should be accessible and suitable for work areas. Long cable runs, road crossings, moisture and changing construction phases affect the work. Include suitable cables and cable ramps where needed. You need not calculate electrical cable sizing for the enquiry; describe known obstacles and changes.
Define delivery and connection responsibilities
Does the quote cover equipment only, or delivery, setup, connection and testing too? These are not automatically included. Coordinate alterations and connections with the responsible electrical contractor. The local utility may require its own temporary-connection process. Clarify documentation and responsibilities before commissioning.
Compare hire and connection costs separately
A published 2026 regional tariff in the canton of Aargau lists CHF 300 excluding VAT for an 80–100 A distribution unit, including the first month. Delivery, assembly, operating costs and commissioning are charged additionally according to work. This is one specific offer, not a national average. Another regional model explicitly separates connection work from cabinet rental. Compare the full scope.
| Cost item | Check when comparing |
|---|---|
| Hire | Equipment, minimum term, extension. |
| Work | Delivery, connection, testing and removal. |
| Extras | Cables, protection, metering, energy and tax. |
Plan duration and changes
State the likely duration and preferred start. Minimum periods and partial months are charged differently by contract. Cover extensions, additional units and relocation if the project or demand changes. A permanent connection does not automatically end hire without notification and return.
Prepare the hire with a few details
Known equipment and conditions help with selection. Technical sizing belongs with the contractor.
- Equipment. Describe equipment, actual unit count and known connections together.
- Power source. State existing mains, generator or battery; clarify explicitly when supply still needs arranging.
- Services. Agree the required delivery, connection, cables, metering equipment and checks.
- Use. Give location, vehicle access, cable routes and expected rental period.
Clarify handover, condition and return
Record supplied parts and their condition at handover. Clarify support for damage or faults, protection against unauthorised use and insurance. At the end, coordinate disconnection, collection, return of metering equipment and billing with the responsible parties.
- Coordinate. Clarify supply and suitable units with the contractor.
- Agree. Define hire, additional work and charging in writing.
- Hand over. Record condition, accessories and the responsible contractor.
- Return. Coordinate professional disconnection, collection and complete return.
Frequently asked questions
Does a distribution unit generate power?
No. A suitable source must exist or be arranged separately.
Must I know amperes and socket types?
No. Known values help; otherwise devices and use provide a basis for clarification.
Is connection included in hire?
Only if specified. Delivery, connection, testing and the mains connection may be separate services.
Are hire and electricity costs the same?
No. Equipment hire, installation and consumed energy are often charged separately.
Can I alter the installation myself?
Coordinate electrical changes with the responsible contractor. Rented equipment does not replace a properly planned and tested installation.
What if the construction period or requirements change?
Report changes early. Extensions, additional units, relocation and charging follow the agreed terms. Coordinate electrical changes with the contractor; a permanent connection does not automatically end the hire.
