Introduction. The presence of semiconductor shields leads to additional dielectric losses compared to polymer insulation without shields. Losses in cables in the presence of semiconductor coatings depend on the dielectric permittivity and resistivity of the composite polymeric material, which are frequency-dependent characteristics. Purpose. To determine in a wide range of frequencies, taking into account the variance of electrophysical characteristics and thickness of semiconductor shields effective electric capacitance and tangent of dielectric losses angle of high-voltage power cables with polymer insulation. Methodology. Serial-parallel nonlinear circuit replacement of semiconductor coatings and linear polymer insulation to determine in a wide range of frequency the effective parameters of the dielectric absorption of a three-layer composite system of high-voltage power cables of single core. Practical value. The obtained relations are the basis for the development of practical recommendations for substantiating the thickness and electrophysical parameters of semiconductor shields to reduce the impact on the effective tangent of the dielectric losses angle of a three-layer composite system of high-voltage power cables.