Overhead vs. Underground Construction

When it comes to getting electric services to your development or build site, there are many factors to consider when deciding whether to construct distribution lines overhead or underground. Determining which type of construction is the better approach requires consideration of the development area, costs, appearance, reliability, maintenance, and future upgrades.


Overhead Construction

With this type of construction, utility poles are set, wires are strung and equipment such as transformers, fuses, and reclosers are installed.

Pros:

Cons:


Underground Construction

Construction of lines underground requires digging a trench deep enough to keep lines away from the surface. Wires are placed in conduits for protection, laid in the trench, the trench is filled in and equipment such as padmount transformers are installed as needed.

Pros:

Cons: