What are the major pros and cons of using underground cables for power distribution?

2025-08-13

As a leading manufacturer of both overhead and underground equipment, we understand the trade-offs.

  • Pros:

    • Aesthetics: No visual clutter, preserving natural landscapes and urban views.

    • Reliability: Not exposed to severe weather, such as hurricanes or ice storms, which are common causes of power outages in overhead systems.

    • Safety: Reduced risk of accidental contact with live wires and fewer hazards from fallen power lines.

    • Space-Saving: Requires minimal above-ground space, which is ideal for dense urban areas.

  • Cons:

    • Higher Cost: Installation can be 5 to 10 times more expensive than overhead lines due to excavation and specialized cable requirements.

    • Complex Maintenance: Locating and repairing faults is time-consuming and labor-intensive, often requiring specialized fault-locating tools and digging.

    • Heat Dissipation: underground cables are not as efficient at dissipating heat as overhead lines, which can limit their capacity.

    • Shorter Lifespan: While modern cables are durable, their lifespan can be affected by moisture ingress or damage during other construction projects.

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