High standards for modern HV power cable system environments

Privatisation of the Electricity Supply Industry (ESI) in the UK has brought with it a number of changes, increasing the expectations of electricity customers and Regional Electricity Companies (RECs) for the economic provision of enhanced system reliability, guarantees of electricity supply, reduced maintenance and increased awareness of the environment. New national legislation legally enforces the obligation of RECs to protect the environment and raise standards in the specification, manufacture, installation and operation of power cable networks. Success in setting higher standards for HV (33-132 kV) power cables, at reasonable cost, is being achieved by establishing joint initiatives between RECs and cable manufacturers. Working together, cable system life spans can be extended and security of supply enhanced to the benefit of their customers and the environment. More mechanically robust cable system designs are being made available, to combat an increasing tendency to damage by third parties, e.g. other utilities, with a greater emphasis on solid designs, extruded metallic sheaths and medium density polyethylene (MDPE) oversheaths. With available land for new HV feeder routes becoming more scarce, it is increasingly important to reduce ´rights of way´ by selecting cables of a smaller size and longer drum length, and to consider carefully the installation design and after-laying tests