Abstract
Protection of radial distribution networks is widely based on coordinated inverse time overcurrent relays (OCRs) ensuring both effectiveness and selectivity. However, the integration of distributed generation (DG) into an existing distribution network not only inevitably increases fault current levels to levels that may exceed the OCR ratings, but it may also disturb the original overcurrent relay coordination adversely effecting protection selectivity. To analyze the potentially adverse impact of DG on distribution system protective devices with respect to circuit breaker ratings and OCR coordination fault current studies are carried out for common reference test system under the influence of additional DG. The possible advantages of Superconducting Fault Current Limiter (SFCL) as a means to limit the adverse effect of DG on distribution system protection and their effectiveness will be demonstrated. Furthermore, minimum SFCL impedances required to avoid miss-operation of the primary and back-up OCRs are determined. The theoretical analysis will be validated using the IEEE 13-bus distribution test system is used. Both theoretical and simulation results indicate that the proposed application of SFCL is a viable option to effectively mitigate the DG impact on protective devices, thus enhancing the reliability of distribution network interfaced with DG.
Highlights
In recent years, mainly due to environmental concerns and in preparation for an expected shortage of traditional fossil fuel based energy, distributed generation (DG) based on renewable energy sources is attracting more and more attention
The possible advantages of Superconducting Fault Current Limiter (SFCL) as a means to limit the adverse effect of DG on distribution system protection and their effectiveness will be demonstrated
The theoretical analysis will be validated using the IEEE 13-bus distribution test system is used. Both theoretical and simulation results indicate that the proposed application of SFCL is a viable option to effectively mitigate the DG impact on protective devices, enhancing the reliability of distribution network interfaced with DG
Summary
Mainly due to environmental concerns and in preparation for an expected shortage of traditional fossil fuel based energy, distributed generation (DG) based on renewable energy sources is attracting more and more attention. Several possible solutions have been proposed to overcome the above problems, such as upgrading circuit breakers, installing microprocessor based recluses [5], employing adaptive protection [6], decreasing the generation capacity of DGs or even cut off the DGs from the main grid during fault conditions [7]. These methods are complex and expensive, and in many cases put constraint in using DG capacity and limiting the benefits from DG units.
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