Enhancing grounding system for canal-side street lighting: preventing electrical leakage hazards by the MEA, Thailand

This study focuses on improving the safety of streetlights near canals, managed by the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) in the provinces of Bangkok, Nonthaburi, and Samut Prakan. Electrical leaks have raised safety concerns, particularly after a recent incident involving a streetlight pole with a disconnected grounding wire, leading to leakage near the canal. MEA reviewed safer grounding options to replace the current T-T (Type I) system, which is unsuitable for areas near canals. The study found that the TNC-S system without grounding (Type IV) is more effective in preventing leakage currents from reaching the canal. Additionally, adding insulation covers to the luminaires assists in preventing leakage currents from traveling along bolts into the canal. MEA plans to upgrade around 30,000 poles to this safer system by 2025 to enhance public safety near canals.