A Multiagent-Based Fault-Current Limiting Scheme for the Microgrids

Penetration of distributed generations (DGs) are becoming more widespread in the current electric power networks. One of the most important issues regarding utilization of DG in power systems is related to their impact on fault-current level. In this regard, a multiagent-based fault-current limiting scheme for microgrids is presented in this paper. A typical microgrid is divided into several sections. A number of superconducting fault-current limiters, which are located in suitable locations of the network, can suppress transient fault currents. Fault location is identified using several fault-location identification units (FLIUs), which are installed in suitable places. In each FLIU, fault current is estimated using a Kalman filter and then the residual signal is generated from the calculated and measured fault current. In the fault condition, the faulty section is identified by analyzing the information of FLIUs in the network. Then, the impact of the faulty section on the sound sections is minimized by utilizing the proposed fault-current limiting scheme. Capabilities of the proposed method are evaluated using different simulations on a benchmark microgrid.