Transmission operators and regulators face the enormous challenge to meet both the request for a high-performing grid as well as the public's concern about the burdens of electric power transmission. Although huge infrastructural projects for the development of interconnections are at several stages, the associated transmission burdens are not yet fully incorporated in the respective socioeconomic analysis. In this respect, the aim of this paper is to present a collective summary of electricity transmission burdens and their associated impacts. To increase coherence, the burdens have been classified in the following categories: transmission losses; electromagnetic fields; infrastructure; visual intrusion; noise; interruption of supply; land use; ecosystems; and property values. Moreover, the burdens relation with transmission technologies and associated impacts are illustrated in original overview tables. Copyright (C) 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.