A method is provided for applying a field grading layer to a power cable includes preparing a polymer composition having a polymer matrix, at least one conductive filler different from a non-linear conductive organic filler, and at least one crosslinking agent. The method includes extruding the polymer composition into a crosslinkable field grading tape and winding the crosslinkable field grading tape onto a section of power cable in need of field grading. The crosslinkable tape is crosslinked to obtain a field grading layer.