For MV and HV cables (>1kV), some consideration must be given to the neutral

earthing arrangements of the system when specifying a voltage grade. In the US, the
Association of Edison Illuminating Companies (AEIC) has the following
specifications depending on the neutral earthing arrangements and clearing time of the
protective device:

100% insulation level

133% insulation level

173% insulation level

The insulation levels above refer to the nominal phase-to-phase voltages. For
example, a cable with a 133% insulation level on a 33kV system is rated for 133% the
nominal phase-to-phase system voltage, i.e. 133% x 33kV = 43.89kV.

100% Insulation Level

The 100% is the insulation level normally used for cables on solidly earthed systems,
or on any system where the protective device will clear earth faults within 1 minute.

133% Insulation Level

The 133% insulation level is specified for systems where the protective device is
expected to clear earth faults within 1 hour, and is typically specified for high
impedance earthed or unearthed systems.

173% Insulation Level

The 173% insulation level is specified for systems where the time to clear an earth
fault is indefinite. This is typically recommended for unearthed or resonant earthed
systems.