Islanding detection in distribution system embedded with renewable-based distributed generation

Abstract

Classical view of power system is characterized by a unidirectional power flow from centralized generation to consumers. Power system deregulation gave impetus to a modern view by introducing distributed generations (DGs) into distribution systems, leading to a bi-directional power flow. Several benefits of embedding DGs into distribution systems, such as increased reliability and reduced system losses, can be achieved. However, when a zone of the distribution system remains energized after being disconnected from the grid, DGs become islanded and early detection is needed to avoid several operational issues. In response to this call, a wavelet-based approach that uses the mean voltage index is proposed in this work to detect islanding operation in distribution systems embedding DGs. The proposed approach has been tested in several islanding and non-islanding scenarios using IEEE 13-bus distribution system. The results have shown the effectiveness of the proposed approach compared to other islanding approaches previously published in the literature.