Calculation of the Grounding Resistance of Structures Located on Elevated Terrain

We present an analysis of the response of a grounding electrode located on the top of a mountain. Specifically, we derive an analytical solution for the low-frequency response of a hemispheric grounding electrode buried on the top of a cone-shaped mountain characterized by its apex angle. The derived equation is validated using numerical simulations based on the finite element method obtained using COMSOL. Simulation results show that, for the same ground electrical parameters, the grounding resistance of such an electrode for steep mountains can be significantly higher than that obtained if the electrode is on flat ground. Such situations can occur in particular for the case of telecommunication towers or wind turbines located on mountaintops. The study emphasizes the importance of considering the terrain profile in the evaluation of the grounding resistance of structures located in elevated locations.