Another update. It looks as though you can still use a common Raceway for the GEC, if this goes through.
5-201 Log #2731 NEC-P05 Final Action: Reject
(250.64(F)(4))
_______________________________________________________________
Submitter: James A. Burch, City of Glendale, Arizona
Recommendation: Add paragraph (4) as follows:
(4) Grounding electrode conductor(s) shall not be routed within the same
raceway as premises wiring except within the enclosure where the connection
to grounded conductor is made.
Substantiation: Routing of a grounding electrode conductor with premises
wiring may subject the wiring systems to over voltages created by the utility or
lightning.
The Code does not restrict the routing of the GEC. If raceways are bonded at
both ends, the Code, as now written, is complied with. If raceways are ferrous,
most induced lightning current and associated voltage stress is routed along the
outside of the raceway and may protect any conductors inside the raceway but
if PVC or aluminum raceways are used any conductors will be subject to high
voltage stress possibly damaging the cable as well as any equipment served by
the conductors.
Panel Meeting Action: Reject
Panel Statement: There was no documented evidence in the substantiation that
a problem exists with the current requirements covering the routing of the
grounding electrode conductor.
Number Eligible to Vote: 16
Ballot Results: Affirmative: 16