Wiktor Wise
Underground electrical distribution systems are a method of power distribution where cables are buried below the ground. This system is often used in densely populated urban areas to reduce visual clutter and protect lines from weather-related damage. Undergrounding is more expensive due to trenching and complex infrastructure, and maintenance can be more challenging and time-consuming. However, it offers increased safety, a reduced risk of wildfires, and lower operating costs over the lifetime of the cables.
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What You'll Learn
Underground power lines are more protected from severe weather
Underground power lines are less vulnerable to damage from severe weather events. For example, in Beadle County, where there have been several severe weather events severe enough to result in presidential disaster declarations, the underground power lines were not significantly damaged. A tornado in 2006 and a heavy snow event in 2008 did not cause any damage or disruption to the underground lines.
The vulnerability of above-ground power lines to severe weather was highlighted by Lynn Kruse, manager of operations for Dakota Energy Cooperative. Kruse noted that constant vibrations from wind or the weight of ice can break power lines or bring down poles, and that the combination of these forces can have an even greater impact. This vulnerability is reduced with underground power lines, which are less prone to damage and disruptions and have lower maintenance costs.
While underground power lines are more protected from severe weather, there are some considerations. Underground repairs can be more challenging and time-consuming, taking days or weeks compared to hours for above-ground repairs. Additionally, underground cable locations may not always be obvious, leading to potential damage by unwary diggers or electrocution hazards.
Despite these challenges, the benefits of underground power lines are significant. In addition to improved resilience against severe weather, underground lines can enhance the aesthetics of a landscape by removing unsightly above-ground power lines. There is also a reduced risk of wildfires and a lower range of electromagnetic field (EMF) emissions. Recognizing these benefits, cities like Chicago and San Francisco have made substantial investments in underground electrical infrastructure.
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They are less likely to start a wildfire
Underground electrical distribution systems are used in areas where land is environmentally or aesthetically sensitive, or where land is costly. In the US, only about 18% of distribution lines are underground, but most new lines that are built are being buried. This is because underground power lines are less likely to start a wildfire.
Undergrounding power lines is an effective way to prevent wildfires, as it eliminates the risk of ignition from an overhead power line. This is particularly important in high-risk areas, where wildfires could be devastating. For example, in California, PG&E's equipment sparked the deadly Camp Fire, which destroyed the town of Paradise, California, and killed 85 people. As a result, PG&E is now working to install thousands of miles of power lines below ground in high wildfire-risk areas.
Underground power lines are also less susceptible to interruptions during high winds, thunderstorms, or heavy snow or ice storms. This can help to prevent wildfires, as high winds could cause a line to topple over or a tree to fall onto a line. In these situations, utilities may have to shut down the power line to prevent the risk of ignition.
Despite the benefits of underground power lines, there are some challenges. Underground repairs can take days or weeks, as it is not always obvious where the cables are located. Additionally, undergrounding power lines can be very expensive, with costs between $1.85 million and $6.1 million per mile in California.
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Undergrounding is more aesthetically pleasing
Underground electrical distribution systems are more aesthetically pleasing than overhead power lines. Aerial cables that carry high-voltage electricity and are supported by large pylons are generally considered an unattractive feature of the countryside. Undergrounding power lines, on the other hand, preserves the natural beauty of landscapes and urban areas. Removing visual clutter enhances the appeal of neighbourhoods and scenic areas, and can increase property values and quality of life.
Underground power lines also have the added benefit of reducing the risk of wildfires and minimising damage from extreme weather events. They can also help to prevent the improper removal or trimming of trees and landscapes. In addition, underground power lines can transmit power across densely populated areas or areas where land is costly, environmentally sensitive, or aesthetically sensitive. For example, as of 2024, the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin determined that the installation cost of a 69-kilovolt aboveground power line is $284,000 per mile, while an equivalent underground line costs $1.5 million per mile.
However, it is important to note that undergrounding power lines can be significantly more expensive than overhead power lines. The installation and maintenance of underground power lines can be challenging and costly, and repairs can take much longer. In addition, underground cable locations may not always be obvious, which can lead to accidental damage or electrocution.
Despite these challenges, undergrounding power lines can provide a more aesthetically pleasing and reliable alternative to overhead power lines, particularly in areas that are environmentally or aesthetically sensitive.
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Underground cables are more expensive
The process of digging trenches and laying cables can also be delayed by unexpected discoveries. For example, if human remains are found, work must be halted until their origins can be determined, which can take years. If the remains are identified as belonging to Native Americans, the project must be abandoned.
Underground cables are also more expensive because they require insulation, which costs more per foot of wire. This is because wires have resistance, and electricity passing through resistance produces heat. Insulation is necessary to prevent the wires from overheating.
Additionally, underground cables are more susceptible to damage from ground movement, such as earthquakes. Repairs to underground cables can be time-consuming and disruptive, requiring street digging that results in potholes and increased traffic congestion.
In some cases, the cost of undergrounding may be recouped through consumer pricing. For example, in the UK, transmission companies are permitted to include the cost of undergrounding in National Parks or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty in their prices.
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They are harder to repair
Underground electrical distribution systems are harder to repair for several reasons. Firstly, it is more challenging to pinpoint the exact location of a fault in an underground cable. With overhead power lines, linemen can easily see where the wires are broken and quickly identify the issue. However, with underground cables, the process of locating the fault can be time-consuming and complex.
Additionally, underground repairs often require specialised equipment and trained personnel, which can extend outage response times. The repairs can be more intricate, especially for higher-voltage lines, and may necessitate the involvement of manufacturers of higher-voltage conductors. Underground cables also face the issue of heat management since they cannot dissipate heat in the same way as overhead lines. This excess heat must be addressed to prevent overloads, further complicating the repair process.
The cost of repairing underground cables is significantly higher than that of overhead lines. The installation and repair of underground cables involve trenching, excavation, concrete encasement, insulated conductors, and the use of specific gear for fusing and disconnects. These factors contribute to the increased financial burden associated with underground repairs.
Moreover, the location of underground cables is not always apparent, which can lead to unintended damage by diggers or construction workers. This lack of visibility increases the risk of cable damage or potential harm to individuals who may inadvertently come into contact with the cables. As a result, repairing underground electrical distribution systems can be a more challenging and protracted process compared to their overhead counterparts.
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Frequently asked questions
An underground electrical distribution system is a method of electrical power distribution where power lines are buried below ground.
Underground electrical distribution systems are often used in densely populated urban areas to reduce visual clutter and improve reliability by protecting the lines from weather-related damage.
Underground electrical distribution systems reduce the risk of wildfires and supply interruptions during high winds, thunderstorms, or heavy snow or ice storms. They are also more aesthetically pleasing than overhead power lines.
Underground electrical distribution systems are more expensive to install and maintain than overhead power lines. They also take longer to repair and faults are harder to locate.
