In a subpanel, is it permitted to bond a ground and a neutral?

In a subpanel, it is mandated by the National Electrical Code (NEC) that the ground and neutral must never be bonded together. The purpose of this rule is to maintain a clear distinction between the grounding and the neutral conductors to ensure safety and proper operation of the electrical system.

When the ground and neutral are bonded, it can create parallel paths for current to flow, which may potentially lead to dangerous electrical situations, such as electric shock risks or fire hazards. In a subpanel, the neutral bus bar should be isolated from the ground bus bar to prevent such issues.

The primary bonding of the neutral and ground occurs at the main service panel, where the grounding system is connected and the overall electrical safety is maintained. In subpanels, where the intention is to distribute power to separate areas, maintaining the separation of the ground and neutral ensures that overcurrent conditions do not lead to hazardous situations. Thus, the option stating that it is never permitted to bond a ground and a neutral in a subpanel is the correct answer.