According to Article 230, where must the grounding electrode system be located?

The grounding electrode system is required to be accessible and bonded to the service equipment as per Article 230 of the National Electrical Code. This ensures that the grounding system is integrated with the grounding of the service equipment, providing a reliable path for fault currents and enhancing the safety of the electrical system.

Accessibility is crucial because it allows for inspection, maintenance, and testing of the grounding system, which is essential in ensuring proper operation and safety. Bonding to the service equipment also helps in reducing the risk of potential differences that could pose electrical hazards.

Having the grounding electrode system isolated from service equipment or located near the utility pole would not meet the necessary requirements for effective grounding and can lead to safety issues. Additionally, placing the system underground in a separate enclosure may hinder accessibility and complicate maintenance scenarios. Therefore, the correct placement as specified in Article 230 ensures both safety and functionality of the grounding system within the overall electrical service setup.