Okay, this is a common point of confusion, and it sounds like you're running into an inspector who is being particularly insistent. Let's break down the situation and see if we can get to the root of the problem.

Understanding the Issue: Grounding and Bonding

The primary goal of grounding and bonding is safety. It provides a low-impedance path back to the source for fault current, allowing overcurrent devices (breakers or fuses) to trip quickly and clear the fault, preventing shocks and fires.Here's where the nuances come in: Grounding Electrode Conductor (GEC)

This is the wire that connects the grounding electrode system (ground rods, Ufer ground, metal water pipe, etc.) to the electrical system. In your case, it's the incoming ground from the building footer.

Neutral Conductor

This conductor carries the unbalanced current back to the source. It's intentionally grounded at the service entrance to establish a reference point.

Equipment Grounding Conductor (EGC)

These are the wires that run with the circuit conductors (hot and neutral) to equipment and appliances. They provide a path for fault current back to the service entrance.

Bonding

Connecting metallic parts together to ensure electrical continuity and equal potential.

Why the Inspector Likely Rejected the First Installation

Bonding the neutral and ground in the meter can (the service enclosure) is exactly what you are supposed to do. However, the way you described it, it implies you were using the enclosure of the meter can as the connection point for the GEC. This could be the issue.

The Meter Can

The meter can must have a listed neutral/ground bar that is designed for the purpose. If you are using the physical enclosure of the meter can as the "bar," that could be seen as a code violation. Also, many meter cans have a screw or strap that bonds the neutral bar to the enclosure. This is code compliant if that screw or strap is present and installed.

Why the Inspector is Likely Rejecting the Second Installation

This is a bit harder to diagnose without seeing the setup, but the inspector's comment "same as before" suggests that the underlying issue wasn't resolved. Here's what might be happening:

Multiple GECs

Generally, you only need one GEC connecting the grounding electrode system to the service. The NEC frowns on running multiple GECs like you described to each disconnect.

Improper Sizing

Even if multiple GECs were permissible (which is unlikely in your case), they need to be sized correctly based on the size of the service entrance conductors.

Lack of a Proper Grounding Bus

It's possible that the inspector doesn't see a clear, properly rated grounding bus in the meter can where the GEC is terminated.

Improper Termination

The inspector could be concerned that the GEC is not properly terminated to the neutral bar.

Possible Solutions and Recommendations


Talk to the Inspector Again

I know you said the inspector is "useless," but try again. Politely ask for specific code references (NEC article and section) that he believes you are violating. Understanding the why behind the rejection is crucial. Ask if he wants you to run a GEC from the meter enclosure to a common ground bus at the disconnects.2.

Review NEC Articles

Focus on these articles in the National Electrical Code (NEC):

Article 250 (Grounding and Bonding)

This is the entire chapter on grounding and bonding. Pay close attention to the sections on service grounding, grounding electrode systems, and equipment grounding.

Article 230 (Services)

This covers the requirements for the service entrance conductors, service equipment, and grounding.

Article 314 (Junction Boxes, Pull Boxes, and Handhole Enclosures)

If you are using a junction box as a central point for your grounds, make sure it is done correctly.3.

Inspect the Meter Can

Verify it has a listed neutral/ground bar that is designed for the purpose.4.

One GEC

Use one GEC from the neutral bar to the ground system. Do not connect this ground to the enclosures of the disconnects downstream.5.

Bonding Jumpers

Ensure that the neutral bar is bonded to the meter can's enclosure using the screw or strap provided by the manufacturer.6.

Proper Terminations

Use appropriate connectors and terminals for the GEC and EGCs. Torque connections to the manufacturer's specifications.

General Best Practices



Clean Connections

Make sure all grounding and bonding connections are clean and free of corrosion.

Secure Connections

Ensure all connections are mechanically sound and tightened to the correct torque.

Document Everything

Keep records of all inspections, corrections, and code references.

Disclaimer: I am an AI chatbot and cannot provide definitive electrical code advice. You should always consult with a licensed electrical contractor who is familiar with the local codes and regulations in your area.Let me know if you can provide more specific details about your installation (conductor sizes, grounding electrode system, type of meter can, etc.), and I'll do my best to offer more targeted advice. Good luck! Flag for review