DOE Cable Undergrounding Projects Receive $34 Million in Funding
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has launched new DOE cable undergrounding projects to strengthen the nation’s electricity grid. The agency is investing $34 million in 12 projects across 11 states. Each project develops innovative ways to move power lines underground. As a result, the DOE expects fewer outages, better safety, and stronger resilience to severe weather.
DOE Cable Undergrounding Projects Aim to Build a Resilient Grid
The U.S. power network stretches over 5.5 million line‑miles and includes about 180 million poles. However, frequent storms still make overhead power lines vulnerable to damage. To solve this, the DOE cable undergrounding projects focus on robust underground systems that protect vital infrastructure. These projects will improve long‑term grid reliability and help communities recover faster after major weather events.
GE Vernova Drives Robotic Undergrounding Innovation
Among the selected companies, GE Vernova Advanced Research will create a robotic tunneling tool for power cable installation. The machine mimics earthworm and tree root movement to dig and place conduit in a single step. It can install 1,000 feet of cable within two hours and deploy directly from a pickup truck. Because of its design, this tool minimizes surface disruption and lowers cost. In turn, utilities can expand underground infrastructure more efficiently.
Melni Technologies Speeds Up Cable Splicing
In Idaho, Melni Technologies plans to develop medium‑voltage cable splice kits that install in just 10 to 15 minutes. Traditional splicing methods take three to four times longer. These new kits simplify the process and reduce human error. Therefore, Melni expects to cut cable failures by up to 90%, providing faster repairs and better reliability.
Prysmian Group Develops Hands‑Free Splicing Machines
Meanwhile, in Kentucky, Prysmian Group USA leads another DOE cable undergrounding project. Their hands‑free splicing machine will operate safely in underground vaults. It aims to reduce splicing‑related failures from 60–80% to under 5%. Additionally, it will shorten the time crews spend in confined spaces, improving worker safety. This innovation supports safer, quicker installations with fewer disruptions.
DOE Cable Undergrounding Projects Enhance Grid Resilience
Together, these DOE cable undergrounding projects showcase America’s commitment to upgrading energy infrastructure. By partnering with innovators like GE Vernova, Melni Technologies, and Prysmian Group, the DOE continues to push for a smarter and more resilient grid. With underground lines, communities will have stronger protection and more reliable power for the future.
Learn more at energy.gov.