Distribution system grounding fundamentals

Abstract

The most common medium voltage electric distribution system in the United States is multigrounded wye using a common neutral for both primary and secondary systems. The effective interconnection of the multigrounded wye neutral conductor with the earth ground reference is very important for safe and effective operation of these systems. Areas of concern include: public safety, operating personnel safety, system reliability, power quality, customer surge protection. This paper is intended to address how grounding system effectiveness affects each of these goals.