NEC 2026 Expected Updates for Grounding and EV Chargers

NEC 2026: Expected Electrical Safety Updates for Grounding and EV Charging Systems

The upcoming NEC 2026 update is expected to introduce major improvements in grounding and bonding requirements, especially for residential installations that include electric vehicle (EV) charging systems. These updates are being considered due to increasing reports of ground faults, nuisance breaker tripping and unstable neutral-to-ground connections during high-load EV charging. If grounding is not handled properly, it can affect safety in the same way weak foundation support affects a building’s stability. The purpose of NEC 2026 is to enhance safety without adding unnecessary complexity to the installation process.

Why the Updates Are Being Proposed

The use of EV chargers, solar energy systems and residential backup power solutions has grown rapidly across the United States in recent years. Homes are now drawing more electrical demand, which can create risks if grounding is not designed correctly. Electricians have observed that circuits above 40A continuous load are more likely to experience unexpected breaker trips or overheating when bonding is insufficient. Clearer code guidance is needed to help electricians verify grounding before activating new circuits.

Main Technical Concerns Identified by Experts

• Possibility of ground loop formation during upgrades of older electrical panels

• High resistance between neutral and ground, affecting fault path clearing

• Difficulty meeting NEC 250 grounding resistance limits, especially in dry soil conditions

• Increased AFCI and GFCI tripping on high-load charging operations

• Risk of conductor overheating if grounding resistance is excessive

These challenges have encouraged NEC engineers to consider stricter testing and clearer rules to prevent unseen failures that may not appear during standard inspections.

Proposed NEC 2026 Improvements (Not Yet Final)

1. Updated bonding guidelines for EV charging systems to minimize ground fault risk

2. Mandatory ground resistance verification before energizing high-amperage circuits

3. Technical recommendations for maximum grounding resistance values

4. Clarification regarding dual AFCI and GFCI protection when required

5. Adjustment of load calculation methods in NEC Article 220 to include EV charging impact

These updates aim to improve installation safety and long-term system reliability. While some electricians expect additional steps, most agree that reducing future risk justifies the change.

NEC Articles Likely to Be Affected

• Article 625 – Electric Vehicle Power Transfer Systems

• Article 250 – Grounding and Bonding

• Article 220 – Branch-Circuit and Feeder Load Calculation

• Article 690 – Solar Photovoltaic Systems

• Article 705 – Interconnected Power Production Sources

These articles are being evaluated because modern homes increasingly integrate EV chargers and renewable energy solutions. As energy demand grows, code standards must evolve to protect system reliability and safety.

Impact on Electricians and Contractors

For standard installations, these changes should not significantly delay work. However, electricians may need to follow additional verification steps when installing systems such as EV chargers above 40A, wiring detached garages or subpanels, working in areas with poor soil conductivity or integrating solar power with vehicle charging systems. Some experts believe that more precise testing during installation will lower the number of callbacks related to undefined electrical faults.

Industry Insight

According to one electrical consultant participating in NEC review discussions:
“NEC 2026 is focused on preventing long-term risks that are often missed in routine inspections. It is not meant to limit electrical work, but rather to standardize safer methods. The electrician’s judgment will continue to be crucial for correct application.”

Timeline and Implementation

The final version of NEC 2026 is expected to be released in late 2025. Full adoption may take 24 to 36 months, depending on local jurisdiction schedules. Electricians and contractors are encouraged to prepare through updated training and code certification programs.

Expected Benefits

• Increased electrical system reliability

• Reduced chance of hidden grounding issues

• Greater compatibility with EV charging systems and renewable energy setups

• Lower nuisance tripping of protective devices

• Enhanced safety under continuous high-load conditions

Final Question for Electrical Professionals

If NEC 2026 includes mandatory ground testing before activating EV charging circuits, do you believe this will help improve overall electrical safety or make residential installations more challenging? Share your opinion based on real installation experience.