Effect of Nonlinear Load on the Performance of Distributed Generation Islanding Detection Methods

Abstract

Islanding detection is one of the most important requirements for the operation of distributed generation (DG) and renewable energy resources. Due to the fact that there are different types of nonlinear loads in the distribution network, considering the linear RLC load model cannot warrant the reliable performance of the islanding detection methods (IDMs) in real network conditions. In this paper, the effect of nonlinear load on the performance of the IDMs is evaluated. For this purpose, a novel approach based on sensitivity analysis with respect to the load nonlinearity level is proposed and the performance of various IDMs is studied. The results of sensitivity analysis show that the higher (lower) the level of load nonlinearity, the easier (more difficult) it will be to detect islanding. The simulation results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed method.