According to NFPA 70-2017 Section 250.122(G), are equipment grounding conductors for feeder taps required to be larger than the tap conductors?

The requirements outlined in NFPA 70-2017 Section 250.122(G) clarify that for feeder taps, the equipment grounding conductors (EGCs) do not need to be larger than the tap conductors. This is based on the principle that the purpose of the EGC is to ensure a low-resistance path for fault currents to facilitate the operation of overcurrent devices, rather than to match or exceed the size of the conductors carrying the load.

In situations involving feeder taps, the size of the equipment grounding conductors can be determined based on the characteristics of the tap conductors and their ampacity, which may allow for the use of smaller EGCs while still maintaining safety and effectiveness in grounding. The regulations aim to ensure that the grounding system is adequate without imposing unnecessary sizing requirements that could complicate installations or increase material costs.

This understanding allows for practical applications in electrical installations without compromising safety standards, as long as other provisions related to grounding and bonding are properly followed.