The proceedings of a Department of Energy-sponsored workshop in the installation of underground power transmission cables are reported. The workshop was held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, October 2--5, 1978. Sixty-two participants, representing equipment manufacturers, utilities, contractors, universities, and government agencies, were divided into topic groups covering specific installation activities. Discussion was directed toward a review of the state of the art in underground cable installation, future equipment and technique development requirements, and the formulation of conclusions and recommendations. The principal technological problem for underground installation is the lack of ability to locate underground obstacles, principally in urban and suburban areas. Development of a sensing system to locate obstacles was given a high priority by nearly all topic groups. The lack of market definition was seen as the principal impediment to competition and development of specialized equipment. Most participants felt that the federal government must assume a role in research and development of new equipment and techniques. However, the participants did not favor increased federal regulation of underground cable installation systems.