Placing optical fibers in the ground wire of overhead high-voltage transmission lines to form an optical fiber communication network on the transmission line, this structural form combines the dual functions of a ground wire and communication, and is generally referred to as OPGW optical cable.

Due to the wrapping of metal wires, OPGW optical cables are reliable, stable, and robust. Since the overhead ground wire and the optical cable are integrated, compared to using other types of optical cables, it not only shortens the construction period but also saves construction costs. Additionally, OPGW made with aluminum-clad steel wires or aluminum alloy wires is equivalent to installing a highly conductive overhead ground wire, which can yield multiple benefits such as reducing the transmission line's residual current, lowering power frequency overvoltage, and mitigating the interference and hazardous effects of power lines on communication lines. OPGW optical cables produced by manufacturers feature high reliability, superior mechanical performance, and low cost. This technology is particularly suitable and economical for newly laid lines or when replacing existing ground wires.

There are three types of OPGW optical cables: aluminum tube type, aluminum skeleton type, and (stainless) steel tube type.

OPGW optical cables are mainly used on 500KV, 220KV, and 110KV voltage level lines. Affected by factors such as line power outages , they are mostly applied in newly constructed lines.