What is a ground grid?

A ground grid is fundamentally a system of interconnected grounding electrodes that work together to provide a low-resistance path to ground. This system is crucial for dissipating electrical energy safely into the earth, particularly in the event of a fault condition, lightning strike, or electrical surge. Ground grids are usually employed in substations, telecommunications facilities, and other locations where grounding is vital for personnel and equipment safety.

The design of a ground grid enhances the effectiveness of grounding by ensuring that the earth is adequately connected at multiple points, which can minimize the potential difference during fault conditions and reduce the risk of electrical shock or fire. Additionally, a well-designed ground grid helps to ensure that ground potential rise is minimized, providing safer working conditions for maintenance and operating personnel.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe a ground grid's function or purpose. A network of underground cables may be related to electrical distribution but does not focus on grounding. A series of rods used to test ground resistance pertains to testing methods rather than the grounding system itself. Lastly, while protective measures against electrical surges are important, they typically refer to equipment or devices designed to limit surge impacts rather than the grounding system that helps manage excess electrical energy.