This is a crucial distinction for project planning.

• Direct Burial: The cable is laid directly into a trench, often with a protective layer of sand or soil and warning tapes. This is a cost-effective solution for low-to-medium voltage applications where future access is not a primary concern. The main drawbacks are the difficulty of future repairs or upgrades, as re-excavation is required.

• Duct Bank: Cables are installed inside a system of interconnected conduits (ducts) that are encased in concrete. This method provides superior physical protection and makes future maintenance, upgrades, or cable replacement significantly easier without re-excavating the entire route. Duct banks are typically used for high-voltage cables and in critical infrastructure projects.