Multi-Variable Optimization of AC Substation Grounding Grid

International Journal of Electrical and Electronics Engineering

© 2026 by SSRG - IJEEE Journal

Volume 13 Issue 1

Year of Publication : 2026

Authors : Rinal K Ahir, Ravindrakumar K Yadav, Kaustubh A Vyas

10.14445/23488379/IJEEE-V13I1P110

How to Cite?

Rinal K Ahir, Ravindrakumar K Yadav, Kaustubh A Vyas, "Multi-Variable Optimization of AC Substation Grounding Grid," SSRG International Journal of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, vol. 13,  no. 1, pp. 103-113, 2026. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23488379/IJEEE-V13I1P110

Abstract:

The design of the AC substation grounding grid plays a pivotal role in maintaining safety during fault conditions. This paper presents a comparative study of grounding grid performance for various shapes of grounding grid, such as rectangular, square, triangular, L-shaped, and T-shaped. It mainly focuses on the number of conductors in X and Y directions, the number and length of ground rods, and the depth of installation of the grid. The outcome shows clear differences in grid behavior when the geometry and optimization parameters are changed. For each configuration, the ground resistance, ground potential rise, mesh voltage, and step voltage are assessed with respect to safety limits. The study presents that careful selection and optimization of the number of conductors in the X and Y directions, the number of ground rods, the length of ground rods, and depth can lead to obvious improvement in electrical safety as well as reductions in material usage and installation cost. Uniform soil resistivity is considered for the analysis of the grid using ESGSD software for obtaining an optimal design. This analysis provides useful direction for achieving safe and cost-efficient grounding grid layouts in practical substation applications.

Keywords:

Grid, Conductors, Step voltage, Ground potential rise, Ground rods, Cost.

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