Long-Term Planning Considerations Based on a “Technical Balance Sheet ” for Introducing High Voltage Cables as Opposed to Overhead Lines in Distribution and Transmission Networks

ABSTRACT — The paper objectively reviews long-term planning considerations based on the concept of a “technical balance sheet ” for introducing high voltage cables in distribution and transmission networks. System planning and operation has the objective of developing a transmission network of sufficient capacity with high availability and reliability at minimum cost. The installation of partial or complete underground cabling is a result of significant system planning and operational implications. Traditionally, technical limitations and cost factors of cable installations have been major considerations for installing cables. Additional considerations are: application and planning considerations; environmental constraints, comparative investments, and perspectives. Index Terms — Technical balance sheet, underground cabling, overhead lines, planning, financial evaluation, gas insulated lines, high temperature superconducting cables. I