PERCEPTIONS OF THE SELECTED ELECTRICAL ENGINEERS AND ELECTRICIANS ABOUT UNDERGROUND CABLING AND ITS FEASIBILITY IN SAN ISIDRO, NUEVA ECIJA

Abstract

Underground cabling is an infrastructural installation that buries power lines beneath the surface instead of leaving the cables hanging on poles spread throughout the landscape (Goldstein, 2015). Studies have shown that underground cabling systems have long been adopted by progressive Southeast Asian countries to improve the reliability of electricity distribution, reduce interruption durations, and prevent vehicular accidents caused by exposed wires. However, there is a lack of studies focusing on the feasibility of underground cabling in rural areas. In this study, the researchers aimed to determine the perceptions of selected electrical engineers and electricians in San Isidro, Nueva Ecija regarding underground cabling and its feasibility. This study utilized qualitative research, specifically a descriptive method, to examine the perceptions of selected electrical engineers and electricians regarding underground cabling and its feasibility in San Isidro, Nueva Ecija. The participants were selected through purposive sampling and consisted of a total of ten (10) electrical engineers and electricians. Data were systematically gathered using semi-structured interviews supported by audio recordings. The results showed that electrical engineers and electricians perceived underground cabling as being installed beneath the surface, durable, costly, and suitable for urbanized areas. The study further found that underground cabling is advantageous because it reduces vehicular accidents, offers durability with less interference, is eco-friendly, and provides reliable power distribution. Additional advantages identified include reduced labor costs and improved visual appeal through beautification. On the other hand, the study revealed that underground cabling is costly, prone to flooding and property damage, and poses safety threats. It also results in worker hardship, particularly during the installation process. Lastly, the results indicated that underground cabling is not feasible in San Isidro, Nueva Ecija due to its high cost, the permits and space required, and the amount of time needed for installation. The results reveal the limited perceptions of selected electrical engineers and electricians in San Isidro, Nueva Ecija regarding underground cabling. While this modern infrastructural installation has been utilized in other countries to reduce power outages, interruptions, and vehicular accidents, the study highlights both its advantages and disadvantages. The findings further demonstrate the infeasibility of underground cabling in San Isidro, Nueva Ecija due to constraints related to budget, space, time, and the need for authorized permits to ensure successful implementation.