An Analytical Survey of the Islanding Detection Techniques of Distributed Generation Systems

Abstract

This paper provides an analytical survey of the islanding detection techniques for the distributed generation systems. Islanding phenomena on takes place when the power supply from the main utility is intermittent due to numerous reasons, but the distributed generation keeps supplying power into the distribution networks. Islanding can be dangerous to workers and electrical equipment, even the power grid. Therefore, islanding detection is the priority among priorities. Islanding detection is a precondition of two working modes switching for distributed generation. In this paper, a detailed description followed by the classification of the islanding detection techniques has been made based on features, such as detection time, size of non-detection zone, power quality disturbances, system cost and operation under multiple distributed generation units. The merits and demerits of islanding detection methods are analyzed and summarized in this paper. In this manner, the greatest detection outcome can be achieved by exploiting the merits of each method. This paper is aimed to serve as a convenient reference and guidance value for deciding the islanding detection method for future islanding users in distributed generation system.