Enabling high penetration of distributed generation and self-healing capabilities of active distribution systems

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Utility operators are now facing new challenges in managing and operating their distribution networks. Current electricity network infrastructure is incapable of accommodating new generation technologies, in particular intermittent renewable resources. Utility companies have recognized the need for a major technological evolution of their assets. They need cost-effective technical solutions that will allow distribution lines to accommodate more distributed generation (DG), storage and demand-side management (DSM) strategies without affecting customer service and worker safety.One of the main barriers to the integration of DGs and enabling the self-healing compatibilities of Active Distribution Systems (ADSs) is the DGs contribution to fault currents. Such contribution has a great impact on the accuracy of conventional fault detection and diagnosis techniques which in turn jeopardise the implementation of efficient and reliable self-healing ADSs. Moreover, distribution system operators (DSOs) usually apply very conservative limits to avoid damage to their distribution system equipment due to the contribution of DGs to short circuit currents by limiting the permissible penetration levels of DGs into theirsystems. Many applications for DGs interconnections has been recently rejected or delayed in Ontario due to the limited short-circuit capacity at various transformer stations.There is a need for advanced and efficient fault detection techniques that consider the DGs contribution to fault currents. Moreover, new planning and operation control tools are required to minimize the short circuit contribution of DGs. The proposed research project aims to develop smart, pioneering, innovative and comprehensive solutions for minimizing the impact of grid integration of distributed generation on fault current contribution, detection and diagnosis. This work will help to facilitate the integration of distributed generation,especially renewable resources, and enable the self-healing capabilities for ADSs to enhance the operational performance of the distribution network and increase system efficiency and reliability.