Fault Level due to Interconnection of Embedded Generator

Embedded generator (EG) is simply a small-scale generating unit (up to 20 MW) whose total output will be consumed by loads at the medium voltage (MV) distribution levels. One of the technical challenges faced is the fault level management, as connection of EG results in increased fault level beyond the capacity of switchgear and cable. This paper presents a fault level analysis and stability of an EG connected to a generic distribution network. With the model of four different types of networks, i.e. interconnected network without EG, interconnected network with EG, use of reactor with EG and network splitting with EG network, developed in PSSIViper, simulations were performed to determine the suitability of network splitting for effective fault level reduction and also to determine the behavioural characteristics of the EG with respect to transient stability when faults were initiated. The studies show that the network splitting method is most suitable for reducing the fault level.