Electrical Grounding Impedance and Gap(s) in IEEE STD. 80, NESC®, or NEC®-A Project Case

Electrical grounding has been an extensively researched topic, yet its dynamic nature often ponders researchers and engineers on providing unique solutions to the analysis for each project. Also, with standardized codes such as NESC^® (National Electrical Safety Code^®) and NEC^® (National Electric Code^®), the implementation and acceptance of grounding and bonding requirements for utility jurisdiction is often subject to interpretation. While NEC^® and NESC^® codes mention ground impedance requirements for single point grounding systems, IEEE Std. 80 goes by the comparison between allowable step and touch potential versus computed step and touch potential. This article highlights grounding requirements in NESC^® and NEC^® and (possible) gaps compared to IEEE Std. 80. A utility project test case example is shared with detailed analysis to highlight the subjective interpretation of code(s) and standard(s). The scope of this article does not involve any other forms of complex grounding or environmental impacts.