How should conductive fences around substations be configured?

Conductive fences around substations should be grounded to ensure safety and prevent electrical hazards. Grounding the fence allows for any potential fault currents to be safely dissipated into the earth rather than posing a risk of electric shock to individuals or damage to equipment. This configuration mitigates the risk of accidental energization and provides a critical safety mechanism for both personnel and the electrical systems within the substation.

The grounding also helps maintain the integrity of the substation's electrical system by providing a low-resistance path to ground, which is essential for effective circuit protection. In the event of a fault, such as a short circuit, a grounded fence helps ensure that the energy is properly directed away from the structure and provides clear dissipation.

A fence that is insulated would not provide the necessary safety features, as it could still potentially conduct electricity if a fault occurred. Disconnected fences may not serve any protective purpose and eliminate the grounding benefits. Reinforced fences, while potentially providing structural integrity, would not address the electrical safety concerns inherent in a substation environment.