NordicNerd
New Member
ESA (electrical safety authority) has bulletins regarding generator hook ups. Specifically I was looking into why, when my cabin was inspected for a portable genny hook up, the inspector told me to remove the G-N bond and no grounding plate was required.
Basically, due to the generator size and no grid connection, the fault goes back to the generator as the prime source. So, while it is not grounded, it is bonded withing the cabin. ESA has a series of podcasts on this topic - you can look them up. I put the links to the bulletins below. I am sure this is relevant to other jurisdictions within North America as there is a common grid.
- states when a generator needs grounding and type of generators that require it
- Good wiring diagrams in this link
esasafe.com
I know this topic has been discussed at length. So hopefully this helps provide some clarity.
Basically, due to the generator size and no grid connection, the fault goes back to the generator as the prime source. So, while it is not grounded, it is bonded withing the cabin. ESA has a series of podcasts on this topic - you can look them up. I put the links to the bulletins below. I am sure this is relevant to other jurisdictions within North America as there is a common grid.
- states when a generator needs grounding and type of generators that require it
- Good wiring diagrams in this link

Episode 8: Generators
With climate change bringing more severe storms, many consumers are looking to install generators to ensure they still have power in extreme weather situations. Tune in to learn how to stay safe and grounded.
I know this topic has been discussed at length. So hopefully this helps provide some clarity.