FAQ
TL;DR: You can’t read exact line voltage from a pole’s look; for 15–30 kV the clearance difference is only 20 cm. “First, check the local plan and the technological strip.” [Elektroda, zbich70, post #16796768]
Why it matters: Architects, surveyors, and investors need safe setbacks and an official voltage before designing near power lines.
- In Poland, MV distribution is typically 15 kV; 20 and 30 kV also occur. [Elektroda, masonry, post #16796369]
- Only the local utility (ZE) can confirm a line’s exact rated voltage. [Elektroda, masonry, post #16796369]
- Between 15–30 kV, minimum external insulation distances differ by only about 20 cm. [Elektroda, zbich70, post #16796768]
- Start at the commune office: request the spatial plan and the line’s technological strip. [Elektroda, zbich70, post #16796768]
- Photo-based guesses can be wrong; one thread image was misposted. [Elektroda, Maciek051996, post #16796143]
Quick Facts
- In Poland, MV distribution is typically 15 kV; 20 and 30 kV also occur. [Elektroda, masonry, post #16796369]
- Only the local utility (ZE) can confirm a line’s exact rated voltage. [Elektroda, masonry, post #16796369]
- Between 15–30 kV, minimum external insulation distances differ by only about 20 cm. [Elektroda, zbich70, post #16796768]
- Start at the commune office: request the spatial plan and the line’s technological strip. [Elektroda, zbich70, post #16796768]
- Photo-based guesses can be wrong; one thread image was misposted. [Elektroda, Maciek051996, post #16796143]
How can I tell the exact voltage just by looking at a power pole?
You can’t. Visual features suggest medium voltage, but they don’t prove 15, 20, or 30 kV. Confirm with the utility. [Elektroda, masonry, post #16796369]
Who can officially confirm the line’s rated voltage?
The competent Distribution System Operator (ZE) for that territory. Contact them and request the line’s rated voltage. [Elektroda, masonry, post #16796369]
Does 15 kV vs 20/30 kV change the building distance a lot?
No. For 15–30 kV, the difference in minimum external insulation distances is about 20 cm, not meters. [Elektroda, zbich70, post #16796768]
What should an architect or investor do first near an MV line?
Visit the commune or town office. Ask for the local spatial plan and the line’s technological strip requirements. [Elektroda, zbich70, post #16796768]
Is this photo an MV line?
The thread confirms MV, but a wrong photo was uploaded—photos alone can mislead classification. [Elektroda, Maciek051996, post #16796143]
What MV levels are typical in Poland?
Typical levels are 15 kV as the most common, with 20 kV and 30 kV also present. [Elektroda, masonry, post #16796369]
How do I contact the utility and what info helps?
Call the ZE, provide the pole number, and share a clear photo and location. “A professional goes to the power plant or calls to get the correct answer.” [Elektroda, krakarak, post #16796175]
My project site is far away—can I sort this remotely?
Yes. Email the ZE with the pole number and photo; discuss by phone to obtain the official voltage. [Elektroda, krakarak, post #16796182]
How do local plans affect where I can build near MV lines?
They define a technological strip—protected width and clearances that govern setbacks and permissible works. [Elektroda, zbich70, post #16796768]
Quick 3-step: How to check planning constraints for a line
- Go to the commune office.
- Request the spatial development plan.
- Ask for the technological strip parameters for that line. [Elektroda, zbich70, post #16796768]
Can I just follow the line to a substation to figure out the voltage?
Don’t rely on that; obstacles and layouts vary. Call the ZE instead for an authoritative answer. [Elektroda, krakarak, post #16796175]
What is “medium voltage (MV)” in distribution?
MV is the distribution range between low and high voltage; typical networks use about 10–30 kV. “How to determine voltage of power lines”
