Sensitivity analysis of a PLC-based DSSS anti-islanding system in power distribution grids

Abstract

As smart grid applications, distributed generation, and microgrid technologies have become more widespread, new safety-related issues have arisen. Unintentional islanding is an example of a grid fault that may result in damage to electrical equipment and severe personal injuries. In this paper, an antiislanding system employing power line communication (PLC) and direct-sequence spread spectrum (DSSS) modulation implemented with software-defined radios for continuous signaling is tested in a laboratory test setup. A concept of a fault detection algorithm is evaluated. A DSSS sensitivity analysis is carried out to investigate system's performance against variation of a signalto-noise ratio, and define optimal DSSS settings. The results of the analysis are interpreted, and conclusions are drawn. A transformer bypassing scheme allowing to increase the fault detection speed and throughput is introduced and tested, and the conditions of applicability are described. As a result of the study, recommendations for the system development are presented.

Real-time detection of microgrid islanding considering sources of uncertainty using type-2 fuzzy logic and PSO algorithm

“…But, if the islanding occurs unintentionally and during the connection of a heavy load, it will cause instability. In the case of islanding, the voltage and frequency changes of the islanded section are slow and the protective devices will not be able to detect the formation of the island [ 1 ].…”

High power quality maximum power point tracking-based islanding detection method for grid-connected photovoltaic systems

“…Several islanding detection methods (IDMs) categorized generally into the remote [6,7] and local groups, including passive [8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17], active [18][19][20][21][22][23][24][25], and hybrid [26][27][28] have been reported in the literature. Remote schemes are based on a channel between the upstream substation and DG(s).…”

“…Remote schemes are based on a channel between the upstream substation and DG(s). When the broadcast signal is not received by the receiver embedded at the DG end, an islanding state is identified [6,7]. These methods distinguish islanding and non-islanding incidents reliably without reducing the power quality (PQ).…”

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.…”