Study Reveals High Costs of Underground Transmission Lines Compared to Overhead Options
A government-commissioned study by Ramboll highlights that underground electricity transmission lines are significantly more expensive than overhead lines. This has implications for future energy infrastructure investment and environmental policy, particularly in scenic areas.
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A study conducted by Ramboll and published by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) on June 12, 2026, found that undergrounding electricity transmission lines is 2.5 to 5 times more expensive than overhead lines, depending on capacity and technology used. The analysis compared costs of traditional cut-and-cover methods with cable ploughing and horizontal directional drilling (HDD) for 20km and 50km routes.
Cable ploughing could reduce costs by 20-40% compared to traditional methods, yet remains substantially higher than overhead lines supported by pylons. The debate on this topic emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to energy infrastructure that considers both cost and environmental impact, particularly in designated natural landscapes.
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