Okay, so assuming the current thinking on this topic is correct and accurate -- namely that current always wants to find a return path to its source -- during a ground fault condition, some of that current will find its way back via the grounding electrode system, and earth. Granted, it will be much less than the effective equipment grounding conductor path via the service neutral, but still -- it will be some.
Given that scenario, what about a neighborhood with multiple transformers in a close proximity to each other? If your neighbor's transformer is closer to your grounding electrode system path than your own, would that stray current find its way back to your neighbor's transformer instead of yours?
And above all, even in the case of a single transformer, is this grounding electrode fault path current measurable at the transformer?
Just trying to understand what's happening here at the atomic level. Any insight?
Given that scenario, what about a neighborhood with multiple transformers in a close proximity to each other? If your neighbor's transformer is closer to your grounding electrode system path than your own, would that stray current find its way back to your neighbor's transformer instead of yours?
And above all, even in the case of a single transformer, is this grounding electrode fault path current measurable at the transformer?
Just trying to understand what's happening here at the atomic level. Any insight?