Why Aren’t More Power Lines Buried, Especially in Tornado Alley?

Introduction

It’s a common question: why aren’t power lines buried in Tornado Alley and across the United States, especially in areas prone to severe weather events like tornadoes? The idea is seductive—protecting communities from damage and disruptions caused by wind or flooding. However, burying power lines is not as straightforward as it might seem. There are several interrelated factors that play a role in the decision-making process, including historical context, practical considerations, and cost-effectiveness.

The Historical Context

Legacy Infrastructure

A significant portion of the electrical grid in the United States was established before the widespread adoption of underground infrastructure. The infrastructure that began to be developed over a century ago was built to meet the needs of a different era. While much of this infrastructure is still functional today, it is not always practical or cost-effective to bury it.

Practical Considerations

Population and Housing Density

In densely populated areas, burying power lines can be immensely challenging due to the existing infrastructure. Cable trenches and tunnels would need to be constructed alongside roads, under buildings, and through complex urban environments. This can be incredibly labor-intensive and expensive, making it hard to justify the investment.

Ground Composition and Surface Cover

The geological makeup of the land can also pose a challenge. In areas with hard or rocky soil, digging trenches can be difficult and lead to costly delays. On the other hand, in regions with softer soil, the cables might not hold up well, leading to frequent breakdowns. Similarly, areas with significant vegetation or permafrost conditions can make it even more complicated.

Weather Patterns

Weather conditions in different regions of the United States vary widely. In arid areas, the risk of subsidence due to rainfall can be minimal, making underground installation more feasible. However, in regions with high humidity and frequent rainfall, the conditions can quickly turn problematic for underground cables, leading to corrosion and other issues.

Cost-Effectiveness

Initial Costs vs. Long-Term Benefits

While underground infrastructure is generally more durable and resistant to damage from severe weather, the initial costs of burial are high. Trenching, tunneling, and the cost of specialized equipment can significantly increase the cost of installation. Additionally, the ongoing maintenance and repair of underground cables can be more expensive than overhead lines, which are easier to access and replace.

Emergency Response

In the context of severe weather events, such as tornadoes, the priority is often on restoring service as quickly as possible. Burying power lines can be a lengthy and complex process, making it less practical during emergency situations. Rolling in crews and quickly replacing broken poles and wires is far more efficient and cost-effective than burying the existing infrastructure.

Probable Future Trends

That said, the trend towards underground infrastructure is indeed on the rise. In many parts of the United States, a substantial portion of the existing electrical grid is already buried, and more infrastructure is being constructed underground. This shift is driven by a combination of safety concerns, environmental regulations, and the anticipated benefits of less disruption from natural disasters.

Conclusion

While it would be ideal to have all power lines buried, especially in regions prone to severe weather events, the practical and economic realities make this approach less feasible in many areas. However, there is progress being made towards underground infrastructure, driven by a growing understanding of the long-term benefits.