High-voltage (HV) underground cable installation is governed by stringent international standards to ensure safety, reliability, and long-term performance. While specific local codes may apply, the primary global standards are provided by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). Key standards include:

• IEC 60840: This standard covers power cables with extruded insulation and their accessories for rated voltages from 30 kV to 150 kV. It specifies the test methods and requirements that the entire cable system must pass.

• IEC 62067: This is for even higher voltages, from 150 kV to 500 kV, and sets the test methods and requirements for these extra-high-voltage cable systems.

• IEEE 400 Series: The IEEE standards provide comprehensive guides for field testing of shielded power cable systems. For example, IEEE 400.2 outlines the use of Very Low Frequency (VLF) testing, which is a common method for verifying the integrity of newly installed cables.

• National Electrical Code (NEC): While primarily a U.S. standard, the NEC's articles on trenching depth, conduit fill, and proper spacing for heat dissipation are widely respected and often referenced globally.