Underground cable specification advances and installation practices of the largest investor-owned utilities

This article analyzes the technical specification trends for the design, installation, and use of 15 to 35 kV underground, insulated power cables by 60 of the largest investor-owned utilities. A distinctive 10-year trend has been established in insulation material preferences, and interesting new data are provided on the cable replacement and rejuvenation practices of these utilities. The results provide practical information that will enable all electrical utilities to compare their medium voltage underground cable specifications and installation practices with those of the largest utilities in their industry.