While underground cable systems have their own advantages, OHTLs are generally the preferred method for long-distance, high-voltage power transmission due to a number of factors:

• Cost-Effectiveness: OHTLs have significantly lower construction and installation costs compared to underground cables, which require extensive trenching and more complex insulation.

• Easier Maintenance and Fault Detection: When a fault occurs on an OHTL, it is typically easier and quicker to locate and repair because the line is openly accessible. Faults in underground cables, however, can be difficult to pinpoint, leading to longer outage times.

• High Capacity and Scalability: overhead lines can be designed to carry very high voltages and large amounts of power, and they can be more easily upgraded or expanded to meet growing demand.

Despite being more vulnerable to weather, the overall benefits in terms of cost, maintenance, and capacity make OHTL the backbone of most national power grids.