Abstract
In this paper, a backup protection scheme is presented. The proposed scheme uses the concept of a cognitive radio-based wireless sensor network to implement a protection scheme without the need for conventional electric wires and/or optical fiber between current and voltage transducers, control panels, and circuit breakers. The proposed scheme uses unlicensed spectrum channels by applying spectrum sensing and frequency allocation algorithms that are used in cognitive radio based systems. The importance of the proposed scheme comes from its cost effectiveness compared to the Ethernet communication both wired and wireless if the data transfer and message exchange is done using cognitive radio_based communication for relatively long distances. The proposed scheme utilizes cognitive radio-based communication network to convey analog and digital signals within a substation. In this way, it saves the cost of the copper wires and/or optical fiber that would be used to transmit digital and analog signals. Further, it does not require the expensive spectrum licenses that would have been purchased if Ethernet long-distance wireless communications are utilized. To assess the benefits/challenges related to the application of cognitive radio_based communication, a detailed and realistic modeling of both power systems and cognitive radio_based communication systems is performed simultaneously. The proposed scheme is simulated using MATLAB/Simulink and performance of the proposed scheme was investigated under different communication scenarios.
Highlights
Conventional power grids suffer from many problems that include, but are not limited to, transmission network congestion, increasing energy prices, degraded power quality, and conventional protection, control, and metering schemes [1], [2]
The microgrid is connected to the utility system that is modeled as an infinite bus of 1.1 kV, 60 Hz and 10MVA short circuit capability
The scheme uses unlicensed radio spectrum to transmit analog signals from a power yard to a control and protection room. The purpose of this scheme is to avoid the expensive infrastructure of copper wires needed by conventional power systems or optical fibers implemented in IEC-61850 to transfer the voltage and current signals
Summary
Conventional power grids suffer from many problems that include, but are not limited to, transmission network congestion, increasing energy prices, degraded power quality, and conventional protection, control, and metering schemes [1], [2]. Practical and reliable solutions have to be adopted to counter these grid challenges especially with its infrastructure aging [3]. Smart electric grids are being adopted widely to solve conventional power grid problems [4]–[6]. The main features of a Smart Grid (SG) include incorporation of two-way communications, distributed computing, and automated control [7]. While they are considered as the backbone for building a smart grid, Ethernet communi-. Adopted communication systems for smart gird applications must provide vital solutions for radio spectrum high cost or extensive infrastructure complexity
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
