1. What is this item?
Overhead (OH) or Underground Wiring refers to the electrical cables used to distribute electricity across the farm. These cables connect various parts of the farm to the main power source (either from the transformer or the main grid), delivering electricity to essential infrastructure such as irrigation systems, greenhouses, processing units, and lighting.
• Overhead (OH) Wiring is generally cheaper and easier to install but is exposed to weather conditions and environmental damage.
• Underground Wiring is more secure and aesthetically pleasing but is more expensive and harder to install, especially in areas with rocky soil or high water tables.
2. How is the Quantity Estimated?
• Distance of Cable Runs: Measured from the transformer to each section or building that requires power.
• Type of Cable: Based on the power load that needs to be carried (e.g., 11 kV, 415 V) and the type of installation (underground or overhead).
• Number of Connection Points: Number of electrical panels, pump houses, irrigation systems, etc., that need to be connected.
• Farm Layout: For overhead wiring, estimating the path of the cables through the farm and ensuring it is optimized for distance and ease of access.
3. Cost Components
• Cable Type and Size: Cost varies based on whether you are using PVC-insulated cables (for overhead) or XLPE cables (for underground). Higher voltage cables or special weatherproof cables cost more.
• Labor & Installation: Costs for trenching (for underground) or erecting poles and stringing wires (for overhead).
• Poles and Mounting: For overhead wiring, you will need poles to support the cables. Poles and other hardware (e.g., insulators, transformers) are significant cost components.
• Trenching and Ducting: For underground wiring, costs include trenching and installing protective ducts to house the cables.
• Testing & Inspection: After installation, the system needs to be tested and inspected for safety and efficiency.
4. Going Rates & Per Unit Cost
• Overhead Wiring (per meter):
o PVC or insulated cables: ₹50–₹120 per meter (depending on cable size and insulation type).
o Labor (for installation): ₹10–₹25 per meter (depends on complexity of the farm's terrain).
• Underground Wiring (per meter):
o XLPE cables: ₹200–₹400 per meter.
o Trenching + ducting: ₹150–₹300 per meter (additional cost for soil conditions).
o Labor (for trenching and installation): ₹50–₹100 per meter.
Example: For a farm requiring 1,000 meters of overhead cable:
• Cable cost (1,000 meters × ₹80): ₹80,000
• Installation cost (1,000 meters × ₹20): ₹20,000
Total ≈ ₹1,00,000 (₹100 per meter of overhead wiring).
For underground wiring, the cost will be significantly higher due to trenching and ducting—typically 2-3x the cost of overhead wiring.
⚡ A key factor in farm electrification—choose wisely based on terrain and long-term maintenance needs.
