New Approach for Validation of a Directional Overcurrent Protection Scheme in a Ring Distribution Network with Integration of Distributed Energy Resources Using Digital Twins

Abstract

This article introduces a new approach for validating directional overcurrent protection schemes in ring-topology electrical distribution systems with distributed energy resources (DERs). The proposed protection scheme incorporates overcurrent and directional functions and addresses DER-induced challenges such as variable short circuit levels. This study employs real-time and offline simulations to evaluate the performance of the protection coordination scheme using a digital twin under DER-supplied loads. The utilization of digital twins offers the possibility to simulate different scenarios, providing real-time responses to dynamic changes and allowing for informed decision-making in response to disturbances or faults. This study aims to present a new approach to validate the performance of the proposed protection scheme when the load is entirely supplied by DERs, highlighting issues such as false trips and protection system blindness resulting from changes in short circuit currents. The results show a breakdown in the coordination of the protection scheme during the fault conditions, demonstrating the effectiveness of digital twins in validating the protection scheme’s performance. Performing an analysis in the electromagnetic transient (EMT) domain improves the validation and refines the results.

Keywords

• digital twin
• directional overcurrent protection scheme
• distribution system
• distributed energy resources
• microgrid
• real-time simulation