Simulation of Microgrid Protection with Synchronous and Inverter-based Generation

Abstract

Microgrids might enable environmental and economic improvements to the electric grid. The introduction of renewable energy sources to the power supply has opened new doors for a cleaner power system and novel grid structure changes such as microgrids. Microgrids are local power networks that can operate in grid-connected or islanded mode. One of the main challenges of microgrids is reliable and accurate protection. Intermittent generation and multiple modes of operation might change fault current behaviour drastically. Protection schemes must always function regardless of network topology, mode of operation, or generation level. Simulation case studies are helpful to test microgrid protection schemes for different microgrid states. In this thesis work, a microgrid is modelled to the needed extent for protection studies using PSCAD software. Protection use cases are simulated with PSCAD to demonstrate protection considerations for microgrids operating in grid-connected and islanded modes.