North America Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable Market Research Report Information by Conductor Type (Copper, Aluminium), by Voltage (1 kV to 5 kV, 5 kV to 15 kV, 15 kV to 25 kV, 25 kV to 35 kV, 35 kV to 45 kV, 45 kV to 69 kV), by Insulation Type (Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE), Ethylene Propylene Rubber (EPR), Tree Retardant Cross-Linked Polyethylene(TRXLPE)), by Jacket Type (Linear Low-density Polyethylene (LLDPE), High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE), Polyvinyl Chloride(PVC), Others), by Neutra

North America Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable Market Overview

The North America Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable Market was valued at USD 2.56 Billion in 2024. The Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable Market industry is projected to grow from USD 2.71 Billion in 2025 to USD 5.28 Billion by 2035, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.9% during the forecast period (2025-2035)

The increasing demand for electricity due to urbanization and population growth and increasing demand in offshore power generation are driving the growth of the Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable market.

As per the Analyst at MRFR, the growing demand for electricity, increasing urbanization, and the need for reliable power distribution systems drove the market's expansion. As cities expanded and population density rose, the demand for underground distribution cables surged due to their ability to enhance aesthetics and reduce power outages. Moreover, environmental concerns and stringent regulations promoting the adoption of eco-friendly solutions further accelerated the market growth. Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cables, being more environmentally friendly and safer than overhead alternatives, gained traction among utilities and industries.

 FIGURE 1: NORTH AMERICA MEDIUM VOLTAGE UNDERGROUND DISTRIBUTION CABLE MARKET VALUE (2019-2035) USD BILLION

 Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review

North America Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable Market Opportunity

Technological Advancements In Cable Materials And Designs Improve Performance And Durability

Technological advancements in cable materials and designs have significantly impacted the medium voltage underground distribution cable market, improved driving performance, enhanced durability, and creating a plethora of market opportunities in North America. The demand for electricity continues to rise as population growth and urbanization expand. As a result, there is a pressing need for more efficient and reliable power distribution networks. Technological innovations in cable materials and designs address these challenges, making underground distribution cables more attractive to utility companies and infrastructure developers. 

One major area of advancement lies in the development of high-quality insulation materials. Traditional underground distribution cables often faced issues related to thermal performance, especially during peak loads. However, with recent advancements in insulating materials, such as cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) and ethylene propylene rubber (EPR), cables can now handle higher temperatures and deliver more consistent performance, ensuring a stable and reliable power supply to end-users. This improved thermal performance also allows utilities to increase the power carrying capacity of the cables, making them more efficient and cost-effective.

North America Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable Market Segment Insights

Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable by Conductor Type Insights

Based on Conductor Type, the North America Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable Market is Segmented into Copper, Aluminium. The Copper segment dominated the North America market in 2024, while the Aluminium segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Copper is a highly preferred conductor material for medium voltage underground distribution cables, particularly in applications requiring exceptional electrical performance and reliability. 

Copper offers higher current-carrying capacity, allowing for smaller conductor sizes while delivering the same power, which can be advantageous in space-constrained installations or areas with limited cable duct capacity. Its high tensile strength and resistance to deformation make copper ideal for environments where cables are subject to physical stress. Copper also has excellent resistance to corrosion and thermal cycling, which enhances its durability and ensures long-term performance in underground applications. This makes it particularly useful for installations that require minimal maintenance and have long service life expectations.

FIGURE 2: NORTH AMERICA MEDIUM VOLTAGE UNDERGROUND DISTRIBUTION CABLE MARKET SHARE BY CONDUCTOR TYPE 2024 AND 2035 (USD BILLION)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable by Voltage Insights

Based on Voltage, the North America Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable Market is Segmented into 1 kV to 5 kV, 5 kV to 15 kV, 15 kV to 25 kV, 25 kV to 35 kV, 35 kV to 45 kV, 45 kV to 69 kV. The 1 kV to 5 kV segment dominated the North America market in 2024, while the 45 kV to 69 kV segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. The 1 kV to 5 kV voltage range represents the lower end of medium voltage underground distribution cables, commonly used in a variety of industrial, commercial, and utility distribution applications. 

These cables are typically used in systems requiring reliable and efficient power transmission for medium-length distances, making them ideal for localized distribution networks, industrial plants, and smaller infrastructure projects. At this voltage range, the cables are designed to deliver stable power to end-use applications such as street lighting, small-scale renewable energy connections, and low-demand substations. Cables in this range are often insulated with materials like cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) or ethylene propylene rubber (EPR) to ensure excellent dielectric properties and resistance to moisture, heat, and chemical exposure, which is essential for underground installations.

Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable by Insulation Type Insights

Based on Insulation Type, the North America Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable Market is Segmented into Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE), Ethylene Propylene Rubber (EPR), Tree Retardant Cross-Linked Polyethylene (TRXLPE). The Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE) segment dominated the North America market in 2024, while the Tree Retardant Cross-Linked Polyethylene (TRXLPE) segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE) is a widely used insulation material for medium voltage underground distribution cables due to its excellent electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties.

It is valued for its high dielectric strength, which allows it to withstand significant electrical stress. XLPE's cross-linking process, which involves chemically or physically altering polyethylene chains, enhances its thermal stability, allowing it to operate at higher temperatures without degrading. This makes it suitable for environments where cables may be exposed to elevated temperatures or heavy electrical loads over extended periods. Additionally, XLPE has low dielectric losses, ensuring efficient power transmission by minimizing energy dissipation.

Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable by Jacket Type Insights

Based on Jacket Type, the North America Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable Market is Segmented into Linear Low-density Polyethylene (LLDPE), High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE), Polyvinyl Chloride(PVC), Others. The Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE) segment dominated the North America market in 2024, while the Polyvinyl Chloride(PVC) segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. One of the crucial features of XLPE as a jacket material is its excellent resistance to moisture and chemical exposure. 

The cross-linked structure of XLPE provides a robust barrier against water ingress, preventing moisture from compromising the underlying insulation and extending the cable service life. XLPE jackets also offer superior thermal stability, allowing them to withstand a wide temperature range which is crucial for maintaining performance in various environmental conditions. This thermal resistance ensures that XLPE jackets retain their protective properties s and flexibility under high electrical loads and fluctuating temperatures, contributing to the cable’s overall reliability and safety.

Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable by Neutral Configuration Insights

Based on Neutral Configuration, the North America Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable Market is Segmented into Concentric Neutral Configuration, Copper Tape Shield Neutral Configuration, Flat Strap Neutral Configuration, Others. The Concentric Neutral Configuration segment dominated the North America market in 2024, while the Flat Strap Neutral Configuration segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. 

Concentric neutral configuration is a type of medium voltage underground cable where the neutral conductor is made up of a layer of copper or aluminum wires that are wound concentrically around the insulated core conductor. This configuration is commonly used for its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and high reliability. The concentric neutral helps to maintain proper grounding and allows the cable to carry return currents safely. It also provides enhanced security by minimizing the risk of electrical faults, making it a preferred choice for utility companies in urban and suburban areas.

Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable System by End Use Industry Insights

Based on End Use Industry, the North America Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable Market is Segmented into Residential, Commercial, Industrial/Manufacturing, Utilities, Transportation, Military, Others. The Utilities segment dominated the North America market in 2024, while the Residential segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. One of the significant advantages of using underground cables in utility networks is their superior protection against environmental threats. Underground installation shields cables from severe weather conditions, such as storms, ice, and high winds, which can cause damage to overhead lines. 

This added protection significantly reduces the frequency and duration of power outages, contributing to a more reliable power supply and improved service continuity for end users. For utilities, medium voltage underground cables offer reduced maintenance requirements and operational costs compared to overhead lines. The durability and long-term performance of these cables, coupled with their resistance to environmental stressors, result in fewer maintenance interventions and lower overall lifecycle costs.

Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable System by Metallic Shield Design Insights

Based on Metallic Shield Design, the North America Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable Market is Segmented into Round Wire, Flat Strip, Others. The Round Wire segment dominated the North America market in 2024, while the Others segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. In medium voltage underground distribution cables, a round wire metallic shield design is used to enhance the cable's electrical performance and protection. 

This shield, which is composed of copper or aluminum wires arranged in a round configuration, plays a critical role in ensuring the cable's effectiveness and longevity in various environmental conditions. The primary function of the round wire shield is to provide a uniform and continuous path for grounding and to mitigate electrical interference. The round wire shield design also contributes to the overall safety and durability of the cable. The metallic shield helps to contain any potential electrical faults or leakage currents, directing them safely to ground and reducing the risk of electrical hazards or damage to the surrounding environment.

Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable Country Insights

Based on country, the North America Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable Market is Segmented into U.S., Canada and Mexico. The U.S dominated the North America market in 2024, while the Mexico is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. In the North America Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable Market, the U.S. held the dominant share in 2024 owing to its well-established power infrastructure, large-scale urbanization, and significant investments in modernizing the electrical grid. 

The country is witnessing strong demand for underground distribution cables due to increasing emphasis on grid reliability, reduction of transmission losses, and the transition towards renewable energy integration. Additionally, frequent weather-related disruptions and the push for resilient underground systems further drive adoption in the U.S., making it the largest contributor to the regional market.

FIGURE 3: NORTH AMERICA MEDIUM VOLTAGE UNDERGROUND DISTRIBUTION CABLE MARKET VALUE BY COUNTRY 2024 AND 2035 (USD BILLION)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review

North America Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable Key Market Players & Competitive Insights

Many North America, regional, and local vendors characterize the Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable Market. The market is highly competitive, with all the players competing to gain market share. Intense competition, rapid advances in technology, frequent changes in government policies, and environmental regulations are key factors that confront market growth. The vendors compete based on cost, product quality, reliability, and government regulations. Vendors must provide cost-efficient, high-quality products to survive and succeed in an intensely competitive market.

The major competitors in the market are Southwire Company, LLC, WTEC Energy, American Wire Group, OKONITE Company, Ls Cable & System Ltd, Prysmian Group, Nexans, Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd, BIZLINK Holding Inc, ELSEWEDY Electric among others. The North America Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable Market is a consolidated market due to increasing competition, acquisitions, mergers and other strategic market developments and decisions to improve operational effectiveness.

Key Companies in the North America Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable Market include

• Southwire Company, LLC
• WTEC Energy
• American Wire Group
• OKONITE Company
• Ls Cable & System Ltd
• Prysmian Group
• Nexans
• Sumitomo Electric Industries Ltd
• BIZLINK Holding Inc
• ELSEWEDY Electric

North America Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable Market Industry Developments

November 2024: In alignment with the company’s goals to best serve its customers and fulfill market needs, Southwire is expanding the footprint of its facility in Youngsville, N.C., by relocating operations to a new, larger building. The new, 170k square foot facility, also in Youngsville, is nearly three times the size of Southwire's existing Youngsville facility and is located just one mile away. The move, which will be conducted throughout the final quarter of 2024, will give Southwire the ability to increase production capabilities and remain competitive in the rapidly expanding cabling solutions industry.

December 2022: American Wire Group, a supplier of wires, cables, equipment and accessories for the electric utility and renewable markets, announced the opening of a third national distribution facility in Katy, Texas. This distribution facility will enable the company to deliver its products and services with shorter lead times.

August 2021: Prysmian Group announced the investment of $100M to increase its North American plant’s production capacity in order to support the increasing growth in the power distribution and transmission markets, further helping meet the need for infrastructure capacity increases in the region and the growing demand from clean energy sources.

North America Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable Market Segmentation

Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable by Conductor Type Outlook

• Copper
• Aluminium

Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable by Voltage Outlook

• 1 kV to 5 kV
• 5 kV to 15 kV
• 15 kV to 25 kV
• 25 kV to 35 kV
• 35 kV to 45 kV
• 45 kV to 69 kV

Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable by Insulation Type Outlook

• Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE)
• Ethylene Propylene Rubber (EPR)
• Tree Retardant Cross-Linked Polyethylene (TRXLPE)

Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable by Jacket Type Outlook

• Linear Low-density Polyethylene (LLDPE)
• High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
• Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE)
• Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
• Others

Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable by Neutral Configuration Outlook

• Concentric Neutral Configuration
• Copper Tape Shield Neutral Configuration
• Flat Strap Neutral Configuration
• Others

Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable by Metallic Shield Design Outlook

• Round Wire
• Flat Strip
• Others

Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable by End Use Industry Outlook

• Residential
• Commercial
• Industrial/Manufacturing
• Utilities
• Transportation
• Military
• Others

Medium Voltage Underground Distribution Cable Regional Outlook

• North America
• US
• Canada
• Mexico

Report Attribute/Metric	Details
Market Size 2024	USD 2.56 Billion
Market Size 2025	USD 2.71 Billion
Market Size 2035	USD 5.28 Billion
Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR)	6.9% (2025-2035)
Base Year	2024
Forecast Period	2025-2035
Historical Data	2019-2023
Forecast Units	Value, Volume (USD Billion, Million Meters)
Report Coverage	Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
Segments Covered	By Conductor Type, Voltage, Insulation Type, Jacket Type, Neutral Configuration, End Use Industry, Metallic Shield Design
Geographies Covered	North America
Countries Covered	The US, Canada, Mexico
Key Companies Profiled	Southwire Company, LLC, WTEC Energy, American Wire Group, OKONITE Company, Ls Cable & System Ltd, Prysmian Group, Nexans, Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd, BIZLINK Holding Inc, ELSEWEDY Electric
Key Market Opportunities	·         Technological advancements in cable materials and designs improve performance and durability ·         Expansion of data centers
Key Market Dynamics	·         The increasing demand for electricity due to urbanization and population growth ·         Increasing demand in offshore power generation