Protection of Power electronicallly Interfaced LV Distributed Generation Networks

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The new trend in power systems is developing towards Distributed Generation (DG) due to some technical, economical and environmental reasons. However, the large number of the renewable based Distributed Generation integrated into the power system and the wide application of power electronics, presents a great number of challenges. In addition, DG based smart power grid requires M2M-like communication scenarios, in which the role of M2M as well as its efficiency for the protection of distributed generation , is an open issue. Therefore, protection and post fault system control methods should be fast, adaptive and intelligent, and should be supported by effective and reliable communication systems. The project aims to develop the communication technology ba sed intelligent methods of protection and post fault control for distribution systems with large scale renewable energy generation units and power electronic converters. The developed protection and control methods will minimize the possibility of losing power supply in an abnormal situation by stably operating a local system in an island mode if the power system at a higher level fails and restoring normal operation as quickly as possible. We will also address the fundamental research issue in exploring M2M for the protection of distributed generation. The main objectives are to: 1) Study the characteristics of emerging distribution system with large number of renewable energy generation units. 2) Model the distributed generation systems. 3) Develop the intelligent and adaptive protection methods. 4) Establish control methods to stabilising the post-fault islanding system. 5) Determine cost effective communication system to support the protection and control methods. 6) Evaluate overall system performan ce. The results from the project are expected to be beneficial for operators, consumers in LV residential areas and investors, as well as equipment manufacturers.