A sheath voltage limiter is an arrester that is used to clamp the voltage induced on the sheath of an underground high or medium voltage cable during a fault on the system.  It is common practice when applying underground cable to only ground the cable sheath at one end of the cable, and leave the other end open.  Leaving one ungrounded reduces circulating currents and losses during steady state operations.  IEEE standard 575-1988 indicates that typically distribution arresters can be used for this function.  IEC Application guide 60099-5 soon to be published offers a formula to use to determine the voltage rating of the arrester, but does not offer any guidance regarding the energy handling rating.

The photo below is an SVL on a 69kV underground system in Lakeland Florida.  A standard distribution arrester is being used.  This is the first ever SVL I have seen on a transmission line riser pole.