Okay, let's break this down to understand the issue and the correct way to address it.

Understanding the Inspector's Concern

The inspector's concern is likely that you have created a parallel neutral path, which is a common and dangerous problem. Here's why it's a problem: Parallel Neutral Path

When the neutral is inadvertently connected to ground at multiple points, current can flow through the grounding conductor. The neutral conductor is designed to carry the return current back to the source (panel). The grounding conductor is designed to be a safety net, carrying fault current back to the source to trip a breaker in a fault condition.

Current on Ground

Current flowing on the grounding conductor can cause nuisance tripping of GFCI breakers, create electromagnetic interference, and, most importantly, increase the risk of electric shock. The grounding conductor is intended to be at or very near zero potential.

NEC Violation

This situation violates the National Electrical Code (NEC), specifically rules about not using the grounding conductor as a current-carrying conductor.

Why It Might Be Happening in Your Installation1. Incorrect Wiring at Sub-Panel/Meter Socket

The most likely place where this happens is in the meter socket enclosure. If the neutral bus bar and ground bus bar are bonded together in the sub-meter (which is common in main panels but NOT correct in a sub-panel) you have bonded the neutral and ground there.

Corrective Action

Your instinct is generally correct, but it needs to be done precisely and safely. Here's the proper way to fix this:1. Isolate Neutral and Ground

The key is to

completely isolate the neutral conductor from the ground conductor in the sub-meter location. Remove Neutral-Ground Bond

In the meter socket,

ensure that the neutral bar and ground bar are NOT bonded together. Remove any bonding jumpers or screws that connect the two. Many Eaton sub-meters have a removable bonding screw or strap for this purpose. This is the most critical step.2. Proper Wiring



Neutral

Connect the neutral wire from the main panel (source) to the neutral bar in the sub-meter. Connect the neutral wire going to your EV charger to the same neutral bar. Use a wire nut if you need to combine wires.

Ground

Connect the ground wire from the main panel (source) to the ground bar in the sub-meter. Connect the ground wire going to your EV charger to the same ground bar. Use a wire nut if you need to combine wires.3.

Equipment Grounding



Meter Socket Enclosure

The metal enclosure of the meter socket must be properly grounded. This is usually done by connecting a grounding conductor to a grounding lug in the enclosure and bonding it to the ground bar.

EV Charger

The EV charger must also be grounded. Connect its grounding conductor to the ground bar in the sub-meter.

Important Considerations and Safety De-energize the Circuit



ALWAYS turn off the breaker in the main panel that feeds the sub-meter BEFORE working on any wiring. Verify that the circuit is de-energized with a voltage tester. Torque Specifications

Use a torque screwdriver or wrench to tighten all connections to the manufacturer's specified torque. Loose connections can cause overheating and fires.

Wire Size and Ampacity

Make sure all conductors are sized correctly for the circuit ampacity.

Professional Help

If you're not completely comfortable and confident in your ability to perform this work safely and correctly,

hire a qualified electrician. Electrical work can be dangerous, and incorrect wiring can have serious consequences. Documentation

Keep clear records of your wiring and modifications for future reference and for the inspector.

Communicate with the Inspector

Ask the inspector to clarify the specific issue they are seeing and what they expect as a solution. Open communication can often lead to a quicker and more satisfactory resolution.

In summary, the key is to ENSURE the neutral and ground are not bonded together in your sub-meter enclosure. Isolate them and wire them to their appropriate bus bars. Flag for review