Application of Fault Location Method to Improve Protect-ability for Distributed Generations

This paper proposes novel protection schemes for grid-connected distributed generation (DG) units using the fault location algorithm. The grid-connected DG would be influenced by abnormal distribution line conditions. Identification of the fault location for the distribution lines at the relaying point of DG helps solve the problems of the protection relays for DG. The proposed scheme first identifies fault locations using currents and voltages measured at DG and source impedance of distribution networks. Then the actual faulted feeder is identified, applying time-current characteristic curves (TCC) of overcurrent relay (OCR). The method considering the fault location and TCC of OCR might improve the performance of the conventional relays for DG. Test results show that the method prevents the superfluous operations of protection devices by discriminating the faulted feeder, whether it is a distribution line where DG is integrated or out of the line emanated from the substation to which the DGs are connected.