Islanding Detection Using a Micro-Synchrophasor for Distribution Systems with Distributed Generation

Abstract

Distributed Generation (DG) has changed the power generation system to small-scale instead of large-scale generation. The demanding issue with the interconnection of DG is the detection of unintended islanding in a network. Several methods proposed in the literature show drawbacks such as high non-detection zones (NDZ) and higher tripping time. In this paper, the IEEE 13 bus distribution network with DGs like wind and solar power plants is integrated at two buses. Islanding is detected by utilizing data from a micro-synchrophasor located at the distribution grid and the DG. The micro-synchrophasor-based unintended islanding detection algorithm is based on parameters such as voltage, rate of change of voltage, frequency, rate of change of frequency, voltage phase angle difference and the rate of change of the voltage phase angle difference between the utility and the islanded grid. The proposed islanding detection algorithm discriminates between islanding and non-islanding conditions and is highly efficient under zero power mismatch conditions. The proposed method has null NDZ and satisfies the IEEE 1547 standard for DG tripping time. The effectiveness of the proposed IDM was verified when there are multiple DGs in the islanded grid. Also, the proposed method does not require additional hardware as it can be incorporated in digital relays with synchrophasor functionality.

A comprehensive review on intelligent islanding detection techniques for renewable energy integrated power system

“…125 The advantages of the new smart μPMUs-based approach are that this can be easily integrated in the distribution network since no additional equipment is required for islanding detection, as it could be integrated into the digital relays with PMU connectivity that are currently in use. 123,126 According to the study on remote IDM, with diverse system configurations, remote IDMs provide high reliability, better detection speed, and better efficiency. However, the downsides associated with remote IDMs are implementation costs, operational performance, and failure due to contact link failure.…”

“…Like PMU, the μPMU receives the voltage and current signals through the potential transformer or current transformer, assesses phasors with a digital signal processor, time stamps the phasors with the reference time provided by the GPS system, and then transfers them to the control center 125 . The advantages of the new smart μPMUs‐based approach are that this can be easily integrated in the distribution network since no additional equipment is required for islanding detection, as it could be integrated into the digital relays with PMU connectivity that are currently in use 123,126 …”

Hybrid Islanding Detection Method of Photovoltaic-Based Microgrid Using Reference Current Disturbance

“…Contrary to the local methodologies, remote IDMs are based on a telecommunication channel between the upstream substation and DG(s). By this means, islanding situation is recognized whilst the broadcast signal has not been received at the DGs' terminal [23][24][25]. Although these IDMs are proven to be accurate and fast, the high burden cost makes them impractical for small-scale microgrids.…”

“…Hence, the investment for sensors, microcontroller/digital signal processor, and a signal generator is estimated lower than 100 USD. By contrast, the realization of the remote techniques is costly, especially for small-scale microgrids [24][25][26].…”

An Islanding Detection Technique for Inverter-Based Distributed Generation in Microgrids

“…One of the most well-known of these challenges is the detection of islanding conditions [1]. During an islanding event, a part of the distribution network with DGs is unintentionally separated from the main grid, often caused by protection relays and circuit breakers operation [2,3]. The islanding condition should be detected appropriately.…”