The solution involves splicing an extension wire, called a pigtail, onto the short existing wire. This pigtail is then attached to the device terminal or to the grounding screw of the metal box, restoring the compliant length and connection. Got great deal on 220W Sunpower panels from SanTan, but didn't realize that they came with short pigtail leads. I was able to twist open the. The panel that I will be installing this AFCI breaker in is a subpanel, so my ground/neutrals are on 2 separate buses on opposite sides of the breaker panel. I just had a random uninformed thought today that one way of dealing with this could be. When this wire is too short to reach a new receptacle or switch terminal, the solution must ensure the continuity and effectiveness of this safety path, which is mandated by electrical regulations. It's kind of rough learning these things after the fact. Is this a big deal in your opinion.
[PDF Version]