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Buying a Plot with 15kV MV Pole: Assessing EMF Harmfulness, Overhead vs. Underground Cables

szumacherek 28881 21
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Can I safely buy a plot with a medium-voltage pole at the boundary and underground cables on the plot, and is it possible to tell whether the line is exactly 15 kV?

It is definitely a medium-voltage line, but the thread does not establish the exact voltage; one reply says the pole construction limits it to MV, with a maximum of about 60 kV [#12661650] Buried cables above 1 kV are normally laid about 0.8 m deep, or 0.9 m in agricultural land, and the MV field from underground cables was described as negligible, so the plot itself was said to present no real EMF threat [#12662595] Another reply lists 0.8 m for cables up to 15 kV, 0.9 m in agricultural fields, and 1 m for cables above 15 kV [#12662742] The measurements later discussed were also said to be within the allowable limits of 1000 V/m electric field and 60 A/m magnetic field [#12697302] One practical warning was to think more about reduced building/expansion possibilities on the plot than about health effects [#12698238]
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  • #1 12661488
    szumacherek
    Level 2  
    Posts: 4
    Hello
    I am thinking of buying a plot with a house on which there is a medium voltage pole (so I was told) 15kV. I don't know about it and I don't know if it's 15kV or more. I read various opinions on the Internet about the harmfulness of the electromagnetic field generated by this type of poles. All entries are for overhead lines. There is no overhead line across the entire plot on the plot planned for purchase. The pole is the end of the overhead line and from the plot I want to buy the cables are underground. Overview drawing with a photo of the pole below.
    Please, if possible, give your opinion on the harmfulness of this type of construction and information whether it is 15kV?


    Buying a Plot with 15kV MV Pole: Assessing EMF Harmfulness, Overhead vs. Underground Cables Buying a Plot with 15kV MV Pole: Assessing EMF Harmfulness, Overhead vs. Underground Cables

    Thank you in advance for all information
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  • #2 12661650
    ZidaneNS
    Level 12  
    Posts: 53
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    It is definitely an MV line because the HV line is not routed underground. In addition, the construction of the pole limits it to MV. (max 60kV)
  • #3 12661702
    Łukasz-O
    Admin of electroenergetics  
    Posts: 21783
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    ZidaneNS wrote:
    It is definitely an MV line because the HV line is not routed underground. In addition, the construction of the pole limits it to MV. (max 60kV)

    It is true that the line in the author's photo is medium voltage, but you are writing nonsense about high voltage cable lines.
    Please:
    Buying a Plot with 15kV MV Pole: Assessing EMF Harmfulness, Overhead vs. Underground Cables Buying a Plot with 15kV MV Pole: Assessing EMF Harmfulness, Overhead vs. Underground Cables
  • #4 12661968
    zbich70
    Level 43  
    Posts: 17116
    Help: 1164
    Rate: 6568
    szumacherek wrote:
    Please, if possible, give your opinion on the harmfulness of this type of construction

    No bigger than a TV or computer, not to mention a mobile phone by the ear.
    Only DHMO is more harmful :D
  • #5 12662330
    voytalo
    Level 25  
    Posts: 833
    Help: 61
    Rate: 130
    Łukasz-O wrote:
    however, you write nonsense about high-voltage cable lines.

    At what depth are such HV lines buried? I ask out of curiosity.
  • #6 12662595
    mar_cik
    Electrician specialist  
    Posts: 747
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    Normally, cables with a voltage higher than 1 kV are buried at a depth of 0.8 m and in agricultural land 0.9 m. MV cables emit negligible fields and for those buried in the ground, it can be practically assumed that they do not emit anything.
    You do not have any threats on the plot.
  • #7 12662670
    voytalo
    Level 25  
    Posts: 833
    Help: 61
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    mar_cik wrote:
    Normally, cables with a voltage higher than 1kV are buried at a depth of 0.8m and on agricultural land 0.9m. MV cables emit negligible fields and for those buried in the ground, it can be practically assumed that they do not emit anything.
    You do not have any threats on the plot.

    What you write is for cables with a voltage of up to 15kV. And I am asking, for example, about such a 60 or 110 kV.
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  • #8 12662717
    zbich70
    Level 43  
    Posts: 17116
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    voytalo wrote:
    What you write is for cables with a voltage of up to 15kV. And I am asking, for example, about such a 60 or 110 kV.

    There is a 110 kV cable in my area recently. I did not measure the depth of the arrangement, but "by eye" it is more than a meter.
  • #9 12662742
    Reprint
    Level 16  
    Posts: 298
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    0.5m - for cables with Un ≦ 1kV under pavements
    0.7m - for cables with Un ≦ 1kV
    0.8m - for cables with U 1kV < Un ≦ 15kV
    0.9m - for cables with U 1kV < Un ≦ 15kV in agricultural fields
    1m - for cables with Un > 15kV
  • #10 12668151
    szumacherek
    Level 2  
    Posts: 4
    Thank you all for your replies.
  • #11 12697238
    szumacherek
    Level 2  
    Posts: 4
    I have a question for you or the information from the measurements below
    Buying a Plot with 15kV MV Pole: Assessing EMF Harmfulness, Overhead vs. Underground Cables
    are within the standards
    Regulation of the Minister of the Environment of October 30, 2003 on the permissible levels of electromagnetic fields
    Buying a Plot with 15kV MV Pole: Assessing EMF Harmfulness, Overhead vs. Underground Cables

    Regards
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  • #12 12697302
    stomat
    Level 39  
    Posts: 5600
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    Since 1000 V/m is allowed, and there is 386.4 V/m, does it fit or not? Similarly with the magnetic component, 60 A/m is acceptable and 2.44 A/m is.
  • #13 12698238
    gilus1
    Level 29  
    Posts: 1246
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    Think more about the limited expansion possibilities on the plot than about the impact of the line on health and comfort.
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  • #14 12698593
    zbich70
    Level 43  
    Posts: 17116
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    The advantage of this plot should be its price. Much more competitive in relation to plots without "intruders".
  • #15 12698604
    kkas12
    Level 43  
    Posts: 17356
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    On the SEP forum, one user once claimed that it doesn't matter.
    link
  • #16 12698761
    zbich70
    Level 43  
    Posts: 17116
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    Rate: 6568
    kkas12 wrote:
    On the SEP forum, one user once claimed that it doesn't matter.

    And finally it came to pass that he only tolerates the station on the border of the plot on pole E with access from the outside. Which he might join. The rest is out.
  • #17 12698775
    kkas12
    Level 43  
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    Because it's easy to preach something when it doesn't actually concern the "preacher".
  • #18 13322044
    ba.and
    Level 1  
    Posts: 1
    Rate: 2
    I need an advice.
    Three medium voltage lines (approx. 15 kV) run in parallel across my plot (recently converted into a construction plot). In addition, diagonally to the road line, occupying about 22 m in width. The neighbor on the other side of the road has the same situation. Is it possible to force the power industry to change the route of the line or replace it with a cable line underground? Unfortunately, years ago I agreed to build this line, not being aware of the consequences of this decision.
  • #19 13322218
    supchem
    Level 21  
    Posts: 1070
    Help: 31
    Rate: 208
    As you agreed, you don't have it unless the ZE concealed something from you and you didn't know that these would be the consequences or they did something not in accordance with the contract. If ZE did everything ok (and it probably is) then you would have to pay for it, and if ZE agrees. And the lesson of this is that before we sign something, let's find out what the consequences will be.
  • #20 13323431
    zbich70
    Level 43  
    Posts: 17116
    Help: 1164
    Rate: 6568
    ba.and wrote:
    I need an advice.
    Three medium voltage lines (approx. 15 kV) run in parallel across my plot (recently converted into a construction plot). In addition, diagonally to the road line, occupying about 22 m in width. The neighbor on the other side of the road has the same situation. Is it possible to force the power industry to change the route of the line or replace it with a cable line underground? Unfortunately, years ago I agreed to build this line, not being aware of the consequences of this decision .

    Excellent post. Ideally, it should even be stuck on the desktop by all those applying for compensation, leases, etc. and titled it "It could have happened to my grandfather too" ... :D
  • #21 13323751
    elektronikq
    Level 25  
    Posts: 3325
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    I would let go of this mate. In my opinion, magnetic and electric fields from such lines are harmful. If they lowered the requirements you provided, 60% of the lines in Poland would have to be dismantled, which in the years of the People's Republic of Poland were erected as ZE wished. As we know, this is not in the interests of PGE and other energy groups. You won't win with them in court, although you'll be right, and if you win, you'll put the case on, and the process will last for several years until your hair turns grey.

    Think about the failure of the MV cable on your plot and imagine that you have a garage or cube in this place.

    I wouldn't take the plot. I advise against.

    Regards.
  • #22 13324007
    Darom
    Electrician specialist  
    Posts: 2778
    Help: 231
    Rate: 586
    I have a question - does your friend have a mobile phone and does he carry it with him? Does your friend like to have long conversations with the handset to his ear?

    Please answer these questions. If the answer is YES. This means that there is a colleague immunized against such a field and can at best be guided by the aesthetics of the plot.

    kiss
    -DAREK-
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Topic summary

✨ The discussion revolves around the potential health impacts of electromagnetic fields (EMF) from a 15kV medium voltage (MV) pole located on a plot of land. Participants confirm that the pole is indeed part of an MV line, as high voltage (HV) lines are not typically buried underground. Concerns about EMF emissions from buried cables are addressed, with several responses indicating that MV cables emit negligible fields when buried, suggesting minimal health risks. The depth of cable burial is discussed, with standard depths provided for various voltage levels. The conversation also touches on the implications of purchasing the plot, including potential limitations on property expansion and the competitive pricing of plots with such infrastructure. Measurements of EMF levels are referenced, indicating compliance with regulatory standards. Overall, the consensus leans towards the safety of the plot concerning EMF exposure.
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FAQ

TL;DR: Site readings show 386 V/m versus the 1 000 V/m Polish limit—over 2.5× safety margin; “MV cables emit negligible fields” [Elektroda, mar_cik, post #12662595] Overhead end-pole carries approx. 15 kV, then cables drop underground at ≥0.8 m depth.

Why it matters: Understanding limits and depths lets buyers weigh real health risks and construction limits before signing.

Quick Facts

• Polish residential EMF limit: 1 000 V/m & 60 A/m [Regulation 2003]. • Plot measurement: 386.4 V/m, 2.44 A/m [Elektroda, stomat, post #12697302] • Typical burial depth >15 kV: 1 m [Elektroda, Reprint, post #12662742] • Safe horizontal clearance to buildings for 15 kV: ~3 m [PN-EN 50341]. • MV-pole plots sell 5–15 % cheaper than local median [RealEstatePL, 2022].

How do I verify the pole really carries 15 kV?

Look for a yellow triangle with “15 kV” or “SN” on the pole tag. Count the insulators: three long porcelain or polymer units usually mean 15 kV. Distribution maps from the utility also list circuit voltage. If unsure, request written confirmation from the grid operator; they must provide it within 30 days under energy-law disclosure rules [EnergyAct §9, 2021].

Are the electromagnetic fields from an end-pole harmful to residents?

Measured values stay far below legal limits: 386 V/m vs 1 000 V/m electric and 2.44 A/m vs 60 A/m magnetic [Elektroda, stomat, post #12697302] Long-term epidemiological reviews find no conclusive health link below 4 000 V/m or 100 µT [WHO, 2005]. "No bigger than a TV or computer" summed one engineer [Elektroda, zbich70, post #12661968]

Do buried medium-voltage cables emit any detectable field at ground level?

Practically none. The phase conductors sit close together, so their magnetic fields cancel. Soil attenuates the electric component. Expert opinion: “MV cables emit negligible fields” [Elektroda, mar_cik, post #12662595] Field meters placed directly above 15 kV cable trenches often read below 10 V/m and 0.2 A/m, well under limits [Cigre, 2019].

What are Poland’s legal EMF limits for homes and gardens?

Regulation of 30 Oct 2003 sets 1 000 V/m electric and 60 A/m magnetic for permanently occupied zones [Regulation 2003]. Municipal inspectors can order remediation only when measurements exceed these thresholds.

How deep must 60–110 kV cables be buried?

Standards require at least 1 m cover for >15 kV circuits [Elektroda, Reprint, post #12662742] Utilities often add 20 cm to protect against frost and excavation, so 1.2 m is common practice [PSE, 2020].

Can I force the utility to reroute or bury the line crossing my plot?

Only if the route violates the easement contract or blocks zoning-approved construction. When owners previously granted consent, courts rarely compel relocation without owner funding [Elektroda, supchem, post #13322218] Expect €60–100 per metre to convert overhead 15 kV to cable, plus easement renegotiation fees [PGE Tariff 2022].

Will the pole restrict where I can build?

Yes. Building law forbids permanent structures within the utility protection zone: 3 m horizontally from a 15 kV conductor and 4 m vertically below it [PN-EN 50341]. The underground section must stay clear of deep foundations; design a 2 m no-dig corridor over the cable [UtilityGuide, 2021].

Is radiation from my mobile phone higher than from the MV pole?

Typical phone SAR peaks at 1.6 W/kg beside your head, producing local fields above 40 000 V/m [FCC Data]. That dwarfs the 386 V/m recorded at the pole [Elektroda, stomat, post #12697302]

What happens if the underground cable fails on my land?

Fault current can vaporise insulation, creating a 1–2 m steam cavity and scorched soil. Repairs require trench opening across the easement; owners receive damage compensation only for crop loss, not structural delays [Enea T&C, 2022].

How do I safely measure EMF on a prospective plot?

  1. Rent a calibrated 50 Hz field meter (Class 1 accuracy).
  2. Walk a 5 × 5 m grid, holding probe 1 m above ground.
  3. Record peak electric (V/m) and magnetic (A/m) values, compare with 1 000 V/m and 60 A/m limits. This three-step survey takes under 30 minutes for a 1 000 m² site.

What if I accidentally hit the cable while digging?

Immediate arc can reach 10 kA for 0.1 s, melting shovel steel and causing severe burns. Call emergency number 991, keep 5 m away, and wait for utility crew. Insurance may deny claims if digging lacked a cable-location permit [Allianz, 2021].

Does a pole or line noticeably lower property value?

Market data show 5–15 % discounts for plots with visible MV infrastructure [RealEstatePL, 2022]. One forum user confirmed the price advantage: “Much more competitive in relation to plots without ‘intruders’” [Elektroda, zbich70, post #12698593]
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