Various neutral grounding techniques are applied in Medium Voltage dis
tribution networks throughout the world. This is due to the fact that
implementation of a particular grounding solution is the result of com
promise between several objectives which are sometimes contradictory.
The right compromise depends on the physical characteristics of the ne
tworks, type and density of load and the importance awarded to safety
and power supply quality. Use of digital protection and automatic cont
rol systems may also have an impact on selection criteria. The authors
of this paper summarize the major possible alternatives and the reaso
ns which may lead a utility to modify its original choices. Developmen
ts by EDF are analyzed and the resulting potential benefits in terms o
f safety and power supply quality are indicated. The result of this an
alysis is the decision to change the neutral earthing of rural MV netw
orks.