What is the most readily available protective ground for a Wye distribution system?

The most readily available protective ground for a Wye distribution system is achieved by grounding to the system neutral. In a Wye configuration, the neutral point is typically grounded, providing a low-resistance path to earth. This connection to the system neutral allows for effective fault current management and helps ensure safety during operation and maintenance.

When the system is grounded, it mitigates the risk of overvoltages and provides a stable reference point for system voltages. This arrangement is crucial for the proper functioning of protective devices and minimizes the risk of electrical hazards. Grounding to the neutral also helps in maintaining system balance and enhances the overall reliability of the distribution system.

The other choices, while potentially valid grounding methods in different contexts, do not offer the same level of immediacy or efficiency in a typical Wye distribution system application. For instance, using a driven rod or cable bonding may involve additional steps or equipment that could delay the establishment of an effective ground. Through a surge arrester primarily serves to protect against transient overvoltages rather than functioning as a dedicated ground point, making it less suitable for the immediate protective grounding needed in this scenario.