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How to Install the Kora Smart Panel

Installer Guide for Licensed Electricians

Written by Paige Tranchina
Updated over 2 months ago

This guide is written for electricians who already know how to install a service panel, and want to do it once, correctly, and without surprises. The Kora Smart Panel installs like a conventional panel, but adds metering, control, and communication layers that must be handled deliberately.

Code Reference (NEC)

  • NEC 110 – Requirements for Electrical Installations (working clearances, mounting, torque)

  • NEC 312 – Cabinets, Cutout Boxes, and Meter Socket Enclosures

  • NEC 408 – Switchboards, Switchgear, and Panelboards

  • NEC 250 – Grounding and Bonding

  • NEC 240 – Overcurrent Protection

1. Before You Start (Read This First)

This is not a DIY product.
The Kora Smart Panel replaces or supplements a standard residential panel and interfaces with service conductors, generators, PV, and batteries.

Requirements

  • Licensed electrician

  • Permits and inspections per AHJ

  • Internet access required for commissioning and warranty validation

  • Follow all torque specs and breaker manufacturer requirements

Key Specs (Quick Reference)

  • Service: 120/240V split-phase, 200A mains

  • Branch circuits: 12 (up to 60A each)

  • Enclosure: NEMA 4X (indoor/outdoor rated)

  • Weight: ~50 lbs

  • Supported integrations: Generator, AC-coupled PV, Powerblocks (1–4)

2. Tools You’ll Need

  • Torque screwdriver (required)

  • Electric drill + bits

  • Knockout punch (do not free-drill)

  • Wire strippers and cutters

  • Level

  • Multimeter (CAT III / IV)

  • CAT5e/CAT6 crimp tool

  • PPE (arc-flash as required)

3. Power Down & Site Prep

  1. De-energize service at the utility disconnect.

  2. Verify zero voltage on all conductors.

  3. Label all branch circuits clearly before removal.

  4. Confirm mounting location meets clearance requirements:

    • Front: ≥12 in

    • Sides / top / bottom: per spec

  5. Confirm conduit paths for:

    • Mains

    • Branch circuits

    • Generator

    • AC-PV

    • Low-voltage (Ethernet, CTs, Powerblock comms)

4. Mounting the Panel

Wall-Mounted (Standard)

  1. Verify structural backing (stud, plywood, masonry).

  2. Use the supplied drill template.

  3. Level before drilling.

  4. Install upper screws loosely.

  5. Hang panel using keyhole slots.

  6. Level again, then install remaining fasteners.

  7. Fully secure enclosure before releasing load.

Tip: If backing is questionable, install a plywood backer first.

Recessed Install (Indoor Only)

  • Maintain full enclosure depth.

  • Do not recess outdoors (voids NEMA 4X).

  • Do not cut load-bearing studs without approval.

  • Secure to studs or blocking through side flanges.

5. Knockouts & Conduit

  • Use factory knockouts only to maintain NEMA rating.

  • Separate high-voltage and low-voltage entry points.

  • Use watertight fittings for outdoor installs.

  • Maintain NEC bend radius and conductor organization.

6. High-Voltage Wiring

Mains

  • Land L1 / L2 / Neutral / Ground per labeling.

  • Verify torque to spec.

Branch Circuits

  • Install only approved breakers.

  • Seat breaker firmly on bus stab.

  • Torque terminals per breaker manufacturer.

  • Route neutrals and grounds to designated WAGO blocks.

  • AFCI/GFCI breakers: land pigtails correctly.

7. Generator Integration (If Applicable)

  • Generator breaker location is pre-designated.

  • Connect L1, L2, Neutral, Ground per labels.

  • Size conductors to generator output.

  • Auto-start wiring uses low-voltage terminals — keep separated from HV conductors.

  • Follow generator manufacturer requirements.

8. AC-Coupled PV (If Applicable)

  • PV breaker location is pre-designated.

  • Max PV input: 100A

  • Follow inverter manufacturer specs.

  • Ensure interconnection meets local utility and AHJ rules.

9. Current Transformer (CT) Installation

  • Install CTs for:

    • Mains

    • Generator (if present)

    • AC-PV (if present)

  • Observe orientation arrows.

  • Route CT leads through low-voltage paths only.

  • Confirm CTs fully closed and secured.

10. Communications

Internet connection is mandatory.

Preferred order:

  1. Ethernet (recommended)

  2. Wi-Fi

  3. LTE (optional)

  • Use CAT5e/CAT6, T568B termination.

  • Avoid routing comms parallel to HV conductors.

  • Connect Powerblocks via designated comm ports (daisy-chain supported).

11. Final Checks Before Energizing

  • All conductors landed and torqued

  • CTs installed correctly

  • No pinched wires

  • Conduit sealed

  • Enclosure intact

  • Workspace cleared

12. Commissioning

  1. Restore power after inspection approval.

  2. Panel boots automatically.

  3. Status LEDs will indicate startup sequence.

  4. Use the Installer App to:

    • Create site

    • Register hardware

    • Assign circuits

    • Verify communications

Do not skip commissioning.
Panel functionality, monitoring, and warranty depend on it.

13. Power Down (If Required)

  • Follow service disconnect procedure.

  • Confirm zero voltage before servicing.

  • Never remove CTs or comms while energized.

Common Installer Mistakes to Avoid

  • ❌ Drilling non-factory knockouts

  • ❌ Mixing HV and LV conductors

  • ❌ Skipping torque specs

  • ❌ Incorrect CT orientation

  • ❌ No internet connection at install

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