I use metered pedestals. Pacific Utility Products has the USP16-M2100 that has a covered meter and a 12 space panel integrated. You set them on a concrete footer, so there's no need for sticks and exposed conduit, etc. They come in either painted or stainless steel and look 10X better than a 4X4 with a box stuck to it.
If it's a permanent installation, why not do it right?
