Prototype of a High-Efficiency, Low-Cost Grounding Electrode: Impact on Electrical Safety and Equity in the community

Abstract

This study presents the design, fabrication, and experimental evaluation of a prototype grounding electrode aimed at improving electrical protection and reducing the economic barrier that limits access to safe systems in vulnerable communities. The prototype, built from locally available materials with an optimized geometry, was compared to a conventional commercial rod under controlled field conditions using the same clayey soil (150 Ω·m) and backfill material. Results showed that the prototype achieved a grounding resistance of 5.00–6.09 Ω, representing a 58–62% reduction compared to the 12.29–15.80 Ω recorded for the commercial electrode, falling within the range recommended for residential settings. The steady-state leakage current was approximately double (129.50–159.20 mA vs 59.19–73.11 mA), indicating a lower-impedance path that facilitates the dissipation of fault currents and reduces hazardous touch voltages. The overall cost of the prototype system was 45% lower, due to simplified design and the elimination of commercial overhead, making it particularly suitable for social housing and rural electrification programs. These technical and economic advantages translate directly into social impact: more affordable and effective electrical protection helps prevent electrocution and fires, narrows safety inequality, and strengthens community resilience against electrical faults. Findings encourage long-term evaluations across diverse soils and climates to confirm general applicability and to facilitate integration into public policies for safe electrification.