A Communication-less Protection Strategy to Ensure Protection Coordination of Distribution Networks with Embedded DG

Distributed Generation (DG) has emerged as best alternative to conventional energy sources in recent times. Decentralization of power generation, improvement in voltage profile and reduction of system losses are some of key benefits of DG integration into the grid. However, introduction of DG changes the radial nature of a distribution network (DN) and may affect both magnitude and direction of fault currents. This phenomenon may have severe repercussions for the reliability and safety of a DN including protection coordination failure. This paper investigates the impact of DG on protection coordination of a typical DN and proposes a scheme to restore the protection coordination in presence of DG. Moreover, impact of different DG sizes and locations on DN’s voltage profile and losses has also been analyzed. The sample DN with embedded DG is modelled in ETAP environment and the simulation results presented show the effectiveness of the proposed protection strategy in restoring relay coordination of the network in both isolated and DG connected modes of operation.

[1]  P. A. Kotos,et al.  IEEE standard inverse-time characteristic equations for overcurrent relays , 1999 .

[2]  Mauridhi Hery Purnomo,et al.  Adaptive modified firefly algorithm for optimal coordination of overcurrent relays , 2017 .

[3]  A. K. Singh,et al.  A review on distributed generation allocation and planning in deregulated electricity market , 2018 .

[4]  Math Bollen,et al.  Integration of Distributed Generation in the Power System , 2008 .

[5]  Nikos D. Hatziargyriou,et al.  Optimal Distributed Generation Placement in Power Distribution Networks : Models , Methods , and Future Research , 2013 .

[6]  Shailendra Kumar Jha,et al.  An analysis of time current characteristics of adaptive inverse definite minimum time (IDMT) overcurrent relay for symmetrical and un-symmetrical faults , 2017, 2017 International Conference on Smart grids, Power and Advanced Control Engineering (ICSPACE).

[7]  P.P. Barker,et al.  Determining the impact of distributed generation on power systems. I. Radial distribution systems , 2000, 2000 Power Engineering Society Summer Meeting (Cat. No.00CH37134).

[8]  Martin Geidl,et al.  Protection of Power Systems with Distributed Generation: State of the Art , 2005 .

[9]  James S. Thorp,et al.  Power System Protection , 2000 .

[10]  Semih C Ilik,et al.  Effects of Distributed Generation on Overcurrent Relay Coordination and an Adaptive Protection Scheme , 2017 .

[11]  K. El-Arroudi,et al.  Applying adaptive protection scheme to mitigate the impact of distributed generator on existing distribution network , 2017, 2017 8th International Renewable Energy Congress (IREC).

[12]  Y. G. Paithankar,et al.  Fundamentals of Power System Protection , 2004, Optimal Coordination of Power Protective Devices with Illustrative Examples.