Development of new passive anti-islanding method for distributed generators

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There is a growing interest in adding distributed generators (DGs) that are driven by renewable energy resources such as wind and solar energy to the electric power systems (EPS). However, adding a large numbers of DGs to the EPS may compromise the stability and reliability of the EPS. DGs operating as islands are not permitted by utilities as a result of risks to safety and equipment. Anti-islanding is a critically important component of the interconnection system between a DG and the EPS, and is also a challenging technical problem that has been recognized as one of the technical barriers preventing widespread deployment of DGs. Although numerous anti-islanding methods have been investigated, a universal anti-islanding method that possesses adequate robustness and reliability is yet to be developed. The objective of the proposed research is to develop a methodology that allows the best attributes of existing schemes as well as new schemes to be seamlessly incorporated into an innovative classification model that identifies whether an island condition exists or not. The proposed technique will be universal and hence, applicable for DGs that interface directly to the EPS through rotary generators and also for DGs that interface to the EPS through power electronic converters. The success of this project will enable higher penetration of renewable energy in electricity markets and facilitate greenhouse gas reduction and economic development. The research will proceed along a timeline with well defined tasks that include: developing a simulation model, developing a database of training events, developing and validating a classification model, performing a comparative analysis with other approaches, constructing an interconnection apparatus and conducting field verification tests. The interconnection apparatus will be tested on both a photovoltaic DG installation (power converter based) and a wind turbine DG installation (induction generator based) that reside in our research facilities. This project will provide research and laboratory based training for two Ph.D. students and one M.Sc.E. student with skills that are in high demand by Canadian industry.