I think the main difference between 1500V DC and 25kV AC is how close the climber would get before being zapped [Linked Image]

Some train accidents over here have occured when somebody would manage to climb onto the roof of a car. They didn't realize that there isn't much clearance between the roof of the train and the underside of a bridge. Plus, the rod part that touches the overhead cables (aw, what is that thing called!!??) has a spring so it can adjust accordingly...