The impact of wind power penetration on recloser operation in distribution networks

A distribution network with embedded generation offers auxiliary benefits when compared to a traditional radial arrangement. However, as the penetrations of distributed generators intensify, power flow, fault current and direction adjust, inhibiting the coordination of traditional protection devices. Advanced methods have been developed to alleviate false tripping or protection blinding caused by the incidence of distributed generation. However, characteristic source and technology specific mitigation schemes have not been explored in depth. This paper investigates specific recloser behavior in the presence of distributed wind power generation. A 9WM wind farm modeled by six doubly fed induction generators (DFIG) is introduced into a test distribution network. Following which, DG and fault locations which are likely to cause protection malfunction were examined. Results for phase-to-ground faults are presented as these represent the most severe and frequent fault types in distribution networks.