Using advanced measurement systems for microgrid protection

Microgrids have been proposed as a way to integrate distributed renewable energy sources while increasing energy supply reliability to the customers. Microgrids can operate either connected to the grid or islanded. Each mode of operation has very different fault characteristics. Microgrid protection systems must be robust enough to detect and clear faults under the varying conditions of the different operation modes. This panel discusses how advanced microgrid protection can be performed utilizing phasor measurement units (PMUs) and other measurement systems that can be deployed throughout the microgrid. These systems also allow for better monitoring and control of the microgrid. Through the use of such systems, an increase in reliability and security for the microgrid can be achieved.