Grounding System Design
IEEE/NFPA-compliant grounding designs for substations, industrial facilities, and commercial buildings.
Service Overview
E&S Grounding Solutions provides comprehensive electrical grounding system design services for a wide range of applications — from utility substations and industrial facilities to commercial buildings, data centers, and renewable energy installations. Our engineers use CDEGS, the leading-edge computer modeling software from Safe Engineering Services & Technologies (SES TECH), to develop grounding designs that meet the most stringent safety and performance requirements.
Good outside grounding is the foundation for an effective electrical protection system. Without a well-designed grounding system, surge protection, inside bonding, and other protective components will not function properly. Our designs account for differences in potential across a facility during lightning strikes, surges, and fault events — ensuring the safety of both personnel and equipment.
Key Benefits
- IEEE 80 and NFPA 70 (NEC) compliant designs
- CDEGS computer modeling for accurate performance prediction
- Step and touch potential analysis included
- Soil resistivity data integrated into every design
- Written report with stamped engineering drawings
- Certificate of compliance upon completion
Ready to discuss your project?
+1 310-318-7151Our Process
Site Assessment
Review of existing drawings, site conditions, and equipment specifications.
Soil Resistivity Testing
Wenner four-pin testing to measure soil conductivity across the site.
Computer Modeling
CDEGS software modeling of the grounding system design based on soil data and design goals.
Design & Drawings
Engineering drawings prepared to meet construction requirements and regulatory standards.
Report & Certification
Comprehensive written report with recommendations and a certificate of compliance.
Standards & Codes
Industries Served
Related Technical Articles
What is the Resistance-to-Ground?
Resistance-to-ground is the most important metric in any grounding system design. Learn what it means, how it is measured, and what values are required by the NEC and IEEE standards.
Understanding Soil Resistivity Testing for Electrical Grounding
Soil resistivity testing is the single most critical factor in electrical grounding design — from simple commercial buildings to utility substations. Learn how the Wenner four-pin method works.
What is Step and Touch Potential and Reducing Resistance to Ground?
Step and touch potential are the two primary safety hazards in a grounding system design. Learn how they are calculated and how to reduce them to safe levels per IEEE 80.
Grounding Test Wells: Essential for Electrical Safety
A grounding test well allows engineers to quickly measure the resistance-to-ground of a grounding electrode without excavation. Learn when they are required and how they are installed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a grounding system design?
A grounding system design is a comprehensive engineering analysis and set of drawings that specifies how a facility's electrical grounding system should be constructed to ensure personnel safety, equipment protection, and compliance with IEEE 80, IEEE 142, and NFPA 70 (NEC) standards. It includes soil resistivity testing, computer modeling using CDEGS software, and a written engineering report.
How long does a grounding system design take?
A typical grounding system design project takes 3–6 weeks from site assessment to final report delivery, depending on site complexity, soil conditions, and the number of design iterations required. Expedited timelines are available for critical projects.
What is the required resistance-to-ground for a grounding system?
The NEC (NFPA 70) requires a resistance-to-ground of 25 ohms or less for a single electrode. IEEE 80 recommends values below 1 ohm for utility substations. The specific target depends on the application, fault current levels, and applicable standards for your facility type.
Do I need a grounding system design for a new building?
Yes. NFPA 70 (NEC) Article 250 requires a grounding electrode system for all new construction. For industrial facilities, substations, data centers, and telecommunications sites, a formal engineering design is strongly recommended to ensure safety and code compliance.
Can E&S Grounding Solutions provide a stamped engineering drawing?
Yes. All grounding system designs produced by E&S Grounding Solutions are signed and stamped by a licensed Professional Engineer (P.E.) and are accepted by AHJs (Authorities Having Jurisdiction) across the United States and internationally.
Request a Grounding System Design Proposal
Contact our team of licensed engineers to discuss your project requirements and receive a customized proposal.