How are you going to handle this on paver pool decks when the 05 code kicks in?
It sure sounds like we will need a 12x12 grid of #8 copper under the deck, within 3' of the water.
Do you also need the copper grid under a plastic pool or spa? Some over on ECM are reading that into the code too.
I doubt we will ever see encapsulated rebar in a gunite/shotcrete pool or deck because of this.

The alternative method you speak of applies to paved surfaces, not just brick pavers.

If the paved surface (deck) doesn't have rebar and or mesh, (fibercrete, brick pavers, etc.) that can be bonded, than it will necessary to construct the bonding grid per the alternative method.

This requiement has nothing to do with the pool construction.

I suppose they will just use 6x6 wire in the concrete decks. In my pool they left 3' stub-outs from the pool shell #3 that I ringed with #3 and added wire but they all said that was overkill. Pavers will be the issue.
I tend to agree with you on the fiberglass pool. The ECN boys have latched on to the "follow the contour" language, thinking that means the contour of the bottom of the shell, not just the perimeter. I can't see any advantage to that if the pool is non-conductive and the perimeter is bonded.

Sorry but I was wrong ....it does have something to do with the pool construction as well. After some more research the alternate means to install the below grade grid shall be secured within or under the pool and deck media, per 68026(c)(3)(c).

This will require the bonding grid to cover the under outline contour of a fiberglass pool and deck with paved walking surfaces extending 3ft form the inside wall of the pool wall.

I am really not liking the new pool bonding.

I'm with you!

I wonder if any reps from the fiberglass pool industry were involved when it came to rewriting this part of the code (seriously). This is quite a change.

I am just starting to get into 680 at this time. Hope in a month or two I can get it down better. Did you guys see the new one about servicing of underwater luminaires? Now how am I supposed to enforce this one?

If the pool tech is 6 feet tall and someone holds him by the ankles when he is servicing the light, does that comply? (see 680.23(B)6)

Actually the requirement found in the new code section (680.23(b)(6) is already required per the UL dircetory and manufacturers installation instructions.

The cord length is designed and required to be installed so the light fixture can be removed from the forming shell and placed on the deck for repair or replacement of the lamp.

I agree with Nick. These things have to be 18" or more underwater and there is usually several inches from the water to the deck so you will need one long armed guy to reach them from the deck and he will probably have his face in the water.
Usually installers will actually go deeper than 18" because they don't know for sure where the water level is at "shoot" time. Again, it isn't the electrician who sets the niche, it is the pool steel guy and that is fine tuned by the shooter. (but I suppose that is a "shocker" to people).

Don't forget there is a bottom mounted niche permitted in the floor of the pool as well.

I think the new code section addressed the same requirement as in the UL directory, in that there has to be enough cord so the fixture may be removed from the forming shell and placed on the deck for repair. maintenance, or lamp replacement.