[dad911]

Transmission lines are smaller conductor, higher voltage. Need distance/separation as an insulator. Higher the voltage, the lower the current. Power=Voltage x Current

My WAG, the diameter of a transmission line conductor, buried underground would be prohibitive.

And as a knee-jerk reaction, with a new gov'ment regulation, at least in NJ the utilities are clear-cutting entire easements, devastating the countryside in spots. Not just clearing under the lines.

So what if a storm knocks out the power? Some of my best childhood memories include playing cards by candlelight, with no boob-tube available.