Protection and control of networks with distributed generators capable of operating in islanded mode

It would be of considerable interest to consumers, utilities and distributed (DG) generators if parts of the network contained DG could operate separately from the utility network during a black out. A possible solution that enables safe islanded operation is described. The approach would ensure important customers were not affected by a failure of the utility supply if appropriate levels of DG are operating on their part of the distribution network. The authors recognise that the work described is a feasibility study and significant further work is required before utilities could consider using GPS to temporarily synchronise islands of power on a stressed or failed distribution feeder.