Overhead vs underground electrical connection: cost differences and when to use each

Choosing between an overhead and an underground electrical connection (bransament) directly influences the cost of the works, the execution time and the appearance of the property. As a guideline, an overhead connection starts at 1,800 lei (single-phase) and 2,900 lei (three-phase), while an underground connection starts at 3,500 lei. The difference comes from the additional excavation, ducting and ground reinstatement works. In some cases, the type of connection is not an option but an obligation imposed through the urban planning certificate or through the technical connection approval (ATR) issued by Retele Electrice Romania S.A.

What an overhead connection and an underground connection are

The overhead connection is the link through which electricity reaches the building from the distribution network (the poles on the street) via a suspended cable (twisted/bundled cable). It is the most widespread solution in rural areas and in residential zones where the low-voltage network is already overhead.

The underground connection involves laying the cable through the ground, inside a protective duct, from the connection point to the consumer’s connection cabinet (firida de bransament)/metering board. It is the preferred solution in new residential developments, in areas with already buried networks, and wherever the local council requires undergrounding for urban appearance.

Both options must be designed and executed by an ANRE-certified company, and SUN WATT SRL covers both the design and the execution in Bucharest, Ilfov and Giurgiu.

Cost differences: comparison table

The table below summarises the main differences between the two types of connection. Prices are indicative and are confirmed once the ATR has been issued.

For a personalised calculation based on the route length and the power, use the connection cost calculator or check the full list of prices.

Why an underground connection costs more

The 40-80% price difference between overhead and underground is not arbitrary. The additional costs of the underground option include:

• Trench excavation along the cable route, by hand or mechanically;
• Protective ducting (PVC/HDPE duct) and the sand bed;
• Warning tape and, sometimes, the marker mesh above the cable;
• Ground reinstatement - backfill, compaction, repair of paving, asphalt or green space;
• Crossings beneath (under driveways, roads or pavements), which may require horizontal directional drilling.

By contrast, the overhead connection only requires fitting the bundled cable on the poles and the facade, with much reduced labour and time. Where there is no pole nearby, however, an additional pole may be needed, which changes the estimate.

Factors that influence the final price

Regardless of the type, the final cost depends on:

• The approved power (single-phase vs three-phase) - see the detailed differences on the prices page;
• The route length from the network to the building;
• The type of ground (soil, paving, asphalt) for the underground option;
• The number of crossings beneath and the additional approvals;
• The technical solution set out in the ATR by the distribution operator.

When to use each type of connection

When to choose an overhead connection

An overhead connection is the right solution when:

• the distribution network on the street is overhead (poles with suspended cables);
• budget is the priority and the lowest cost is sought;
• you need a fast connection;
• there are no urban planning restrictions requiring undergrounding;
• it concerns a temporary site connection (from 2,200 lei), where the temporary overhead solution is standard.

When you choose (or are required to use) an underground connection

An underground connection becomes necessary or recommended when:

• the network in the area is already buried, and an overhead connection is not possible;
• the urban planning certificate or the local regulation requires undergrounding;
• the property is within a new residential development where aesthetics are important;
• maximum protection of the cable against wind, rain, hoarfrost or branches is sought;
• the distance or the configuration of the ground does not allow safe overhead installation.

The final decision is not entirely yours: the operator Retele Electrice Romania S.A. sets the technical solution through the ATR, depending on the configuration of the network in your area.

The steps towards connection, regardless of type

The administrative process is similar for both solutions:

1. The connection dossier (from 900 lei) - submitted to the distribution operator;
2. Issuing the ATR - the approval that confirms the technical solution and the approved power;
3. Designing the connection by an ANRE-certified company;
4. Executing the works (overhead or underground);
5. Energisation (punere sub tensiune) and signing the supply contract.

Where required, we also prepare the DIU dossier (Utilisation Installation Dossier / proof of internal installation, from 1,200 lei - documentation, excluding labour), a service available nationwide.

How SUN WATT SRL helps you

SUN WATT SRL is an ANRE-certified company for the design and execution of electrical connections. We guide you from the connection dossier through to energisation and recommend the optimal solution - overhead or underground - depending on the network configuration and the urban planning requirements.

For a personalised estimate, contact us or call 0733 097 440. The final price is set once the ATR has been issued by Retele Electrice Romania.