When Should I Use Direct Burial Cable?
OUR SOLUTION FOLLOW-UP QUESTION
What is USE-2 Cable?
USE-2 is direct burial rated & dual rated 600V/1kV, making it suitable for underground power distribution without conduit.
It features the same durable XLPE (crosslinked polyethylene) as XHHW-2 cable, but with thicker insulation that adds protection against moisture, abrasion, and environmental degradation.
PROTECTS AGAINST
Service Wire's USE-2 is available as a single conductor or in a twisted multi-conductor configuration. It can be further enhanced with a VW-1 rating, offering superior flame resistance, and tinned for corrosion resistance.
Easy to strip and available in a wide range of industry standard colors for easy phase ID, USE-2 can save you time and labor compared to traditional pipe and wire installations.
USE-2 or RHW-2, 600V/1kV Copper, #14 AWG - 750 Kcmil
USE-2 (Underground Service Entrance) cable is specifically designed for direct burial underground power distribution without conduit. Available as a single conductor or as a twisted cable assembly, USE-2 can provide significant cost and labor savings over traditional pipe and wire installations.
Understanding when and why to specify USE-2 ensures code compliance, reliable performance, and long-term durability of underground power systems.
TYPICAL APPLICATIONS FOR USE-2
USE-2 can be directly buried in the ground or encased in concrete—making it ideal for a variety of underground power distribution applications where cable might be exposed to moisture and environmental stress. It is used throughout industrial facilities and outdoor infrastructure projects for reliable power delivery.
MICROGRID
Microgrids integrate distributed energy resources—solar arrays, battery storage, and backup generators—into localized power networks that can operate independently or connect to the main grid. USE-2 can provide the underground distribution backbone connecting microgrid components, from generation and storage systems to load centers and interconnection points. These applications benefit from USE-2's ability to withstand direct burial and environmental exposure while maintaining reliable power delivery in resilience-focused and renewable-energy projects.
BATTERY POWER
Modern energy storage projects increasingly rely on USE-2 for feeders connecting BESS equipment to service equipment, switchgear, or interconnection points. Outdoor and utility-adjacent BESS installations benefit from the moisture and sunlight resistance USE-2 provides. These direct-burial runs connect battery enclosures, transformers, and distribution equipment in microgrid, backup-power, and renewable-integration projects. The added insulation of USE-2 as compared to thinner wall solutions provides additional arc-over protection. As energy storage becomes more prevalent in grid modernization and renewable integration, USE-2 plays a critical role in reliable system performance.
ROADWAY INFRASTRUCTURE
Roadway infrastructure uses buried power distribution for street lighting, traffic signals, and electric vehicle charging stations. USE-2's direct-burial capability eliminates the need for conduit in these applications, reducing installation costs and complexity. USE-2 is also standard for underground power distribution in highway tunnels and underpass lighting systems where cable must withstand moisture exposure and environmental stress.
SERVICE LINES
USE-2 is standard for underground service lines running from a utility pole or transformer to a building's meter and disconnect. This includes commercial facilities, industrial operations, and large-scale power distribution projects where underground routing is preferred.
SUBMIT A QUESTION
FACT SHEET
Service Wire always goes above and beyond to meet the requirements of the customer.
Tough to find any manufacturer better for support, service, inventory, and quality products.
WHEN TO SPECIFY USE-2
USE-2 is the best choice for underground power distribution. It ensures reliable performance in underground environments, and provides the durability needed for long-term installations. Service Wire maintains extensive inventory of USE-2 in standard and twisted configurations for immediate availability. Our technical team can help you select the right cable size and configuration for your specific application requirements.
Contact your Service Wire representative today to discuss our cable management solutions and ensure your materials are ready for the job, regardless of the forecast.
Contact your Service Wire representative today to discuss USE-2 solutions for your underground-powered project.
SERVICEPRO-X®
No Pulling Lubricant Required
(#6 AWG and Larger)
- XHHW-2 600V/1kV Copper
- USE-2 or RHW-2 600V/1kV Copper
- RHW-2 or RW90 1kV/2kV Copper
AVAILABLE:
#14 AWG - 750 Kcmil
Tinned Conductors
VW-1 Rated
Wide Range of Colors
Silicone-Free
SERVICESOLAR®
Photovoltaic Wire (UL 1403)
- XLP/USE-2 or RHW-2 600V/1kV or 2kV Copper
- RPVU90 1kV/2kV Copper
- RHW-2 or RW90 1kV/2kV Copper
AVAILABLE:
#16 AWG - 750 Kcmil
Industry Standard Colors
SERVICEPLEX®
Prefab Twisted Single Conductors
- XHHW-2 Inner Conductors
600/1,000 Volt Copper
AVAILABLE:
#14 AWG - 750 Kcmil
2-7 Conductors
Built-In Grounds
Pre-Installed Pulling Heads
Wide Range of Colors
Silicone-Free
Related CUSTOMER QUESTIONS
How Can I Prevent Cable Faults During Installation?
Even the smallest nick in a cable’s insulation can lead to outer sheath damage & a short circuit fault. Cables that won’t meg properly will need to be replaced. Learn how you can prevent cable faults during installation.
THHN vs. XHHW-2: What's the Difference?
Thermoset XLPE insulation is superior to the thinner PVC insulation used in thermoplastic products (like THHN/THWN-2). Learn more about the differences between THHN and XHHW-2.
How Do Cold Temperatures Affect Cable?
Extreme cold temps put your cables to the test. If you use the wrong cable it can stiffen, crack, and even break. See how to select the right thermoset cable with sufficient cold temperature rating instead.