Evaluation Of Two Submarine Cable Installations In Extensive Tidal Salt Marsh And River Interfaces

This paper details the planning and installation of two 46 kilovolt submarine cables by the South Carolina Electric and Gas Company in extensive salt marsh environments. Installed approximately two years apart, the circuits are of two different one mile designs (three conductor and three single conductors). The similarities of these projects offer a unique comparison of installation techniques. These projects are reviewed from planning, through permitting, to installation and operation. A discussion of the salt marsh environment is presented. Evaluations of various construction equipment and methods are addressed. In addition, effects of cable construction and operation on marsh grasses and tidal zone life are shown.