electronics

Article
Adaptive Protection for Microgrid with Distributed
Energy Resources
Chathurika Chandraratne 1 , Thaiyal Naayagi Ramasamy 1, * , Thillainathan Logenthiran 2, *
and Gayadhar Panda 3, *
1 Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Newcastle University, Singapore 567739, Singapore;
c.s.k.chandraratne2@newcastle.ac.uk
2 Electrical Power Engineering, University of Washington Tacoma, Tacoma, WA 98402, USA
3 Electrical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Meghalaya, Meghalaya 793003, India
* Correspondence: naayagi.ramasamy@newcastle.ac.uk (T.N.R.); LoganThN@uw.edu (T.L.);
gayadhar.panda@nitm.ac.in (G.P.)




Received: 15 September 2020; Accepted: 31 October 2020; Published: 20 November 2020


Abstract: The microgrid includes a distribution system with low voltage, controllable load,
and distributed energy resources (DER). The DERs have been increased in the recent power network
to address global environmental concerns, which creates challenges in faults, synchronization,
inertia control, etc. As the technologies are getting advanced day by day, the past technology becomes
obsolete. The internet of things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) are the most discussed topics to
obtain solutions for the challenges. One of the proposed solutions is adaptive overcurrent protection,
as it can be used for any grid. In this paper, an algorithm is developed for the adaptive overcurrent
relay protection to overcome the challenges of the microgrid with distributed energy resources.
Then, the solutions obtained from the adaptive overcurrent protection algorithm network simulation
are compared to the traditional overcurrent protection algorithm using the four key points such as
selectivity, reliability, sensitivity, and speed to have a good performance in the power network. All the
simulation studies are done in the electrical transient analyzer program (ETAP) software environment.
Simulation results validate the performance of the proposed algorithm for adaptive protection using
the IEEE-9 bus system with a microgrid.

Keywords: microgrid; distributed energy resources; adaptive overcurrent protection

1. Introduction
Due to the environmental and global warming issues, people have been recommending and
projecting ideas on the smart grid. Today, the smart grid is a significant concept in the power policy
national wide [1,2]. After the smart grid is introduced, the next generation of the grid is the microgrid.
The microgrid power system is small-scale with various distribution models [3]. Its main idea is to
incorporate a limited number of distributed generators to ideally control them without making the
system complex [4]. The distribution models can be hybrid, radial, or interconnected. One prominent
advantage of the microgrid is that it has two modes of operation. They are grid-connected and
islanded-mode. This is a key player in the next generation of the power network.
There is increased growth of distributed energy resources (DER) in the power grid [5]. The reason
is that it can reduce electricity costs as well as greenhouse gas emissions [6]. It can also assist the
consumers through reducing the dependence on the main electricity grid. DER has a very low value to
generate power [7]. It is usually connected to the low and medium voltage of the distribution network
using an inverter.

Electronics 2020, 9, 1959; doi:10.3390/electronics9111959 www.mdpi.com/journal/electronics

Electronics 2020, 9, 1959 2 of 14

The key point of adaptive protection is that when a fault occurs, the relay can adjust to the power
network conditions [8]. It means that the relay can adjust to the current operational condition of the
power system. The adaptive protection relay itself is a digital relay. Since this relay has an automatic
setting, this technique applies to do so. In the traditional relay, the setting is fixed with one parameter.
The relay does not adapt to the surrounding environment, as it does not have the function of real- time.
The adaptive protection relay has a microprocessor, so it can use the real-time function. The faults that
cannot be protected by the traditional relay, the adaptive protection, can protect the system with a
no-fault error.
During the modeling of a modern power system, it recognized two factors that could affect the
system. They are the analyzation and isolation of the fault. If a fault happens, it should be isolated
fully. To keep the load safely, the affected regions in the main system or the neighboring areas should
isolate the fault very fast, no matter how big or small the fault is. The existing protection methods and
relay setting can lead to inappropriate tripping, as the evolvement of the grid needs protection such as
adaptive protection, which can get the most use of the protection [6]. As the technologies get advanced
day by day, the protection relay also has to be advanced. Therefore, adaptive overcurrent protection is
one of the effective solutions, as it can be used for traditional networks as well as future grids.
This paper presents the data on the digital relay and the challenges of the microgrid. This paper
contributes to an algorithm that is developed for the adaptive overcurrent relay protection to overcome
the challenges of the microgrid with distributed energy resources. The adaptive overcurrent protection
will be shown in the microgrid connected to the IEEE-9 bus system simulation at the same time other
protection types are showcased as well.
The remaining of the paper is organized in the following manner: Section 2 contains a discussion on
the challenges of the microgrid. Section 3 will discuss the possible solutions for the challenges. Section 4
will emphasize the distributed energy resources and impacts. Section 5 will explain the proposed
algorithm protection. Section 6 presents the validation and verification of microgrid simulation studies.
Section 7 discusses the results. The conclusion is summarized in Section 8.

2. Challenges for Microgrid Protection

Without a major adjustment in the microgrid, the traditional protection that is used for the radial
distribution network cannot be used [9]. The topology adjustments of the microgrid and level of
fault current are for both modes, which are the island mode and grid-connected mode. The major
challenge in the microgrid would be the integration of distributed energy resources. The following are
the challenges for the microgrid protection system.

2.1. Oscillography Data

The fault current is dependent on the operational mode of the microgrid. The utilities contribute
to the fault current of the microgrid, while for the islanded mode, the potential fault current is low.
The fault current decreases when there is an increase in the feeder, as the fault shifts downward along
the feeder path for the conventional distribution network. However, for the microgrid, the distributed
energy resources contribute to the fault current as well. There will be two different fault currents path
for grid-connected and island mode. It will need two different relay settings. It is not practical to have
a fixed relay setting for the microgrid system. The reason for that is the DER’s behavior would affect
the relay setting coordination.

2.2. Microgrid Topology Impact on Protection

There will be an effect on the direction and the magnitude of the fault current in the microgrid if
the network is in a meshed or looped configuration. Here is an example. In a loop network, the fault
current is divided into two parallel lines. Therefore, the current from the upstream protective device
feeder will be twice as large as each fault within the loop. The microgrid will have an impact on the
coordination of the protective device if the network is meshed or looped.
Electronics 2020, 9, 1959 3 of 14

3. Possible Solutions for the Challenges

The following are the possible solutions for the above-mentioned challenges.

3.1. Adaptive Protection

Each grid-connected and islanded mode will have its own set of relay settings. When the microgrid
switches the operational mode, the relay will choose the best setting for that particular mode. For the
islanded mode, the time overcurrent characteristic curve of the relay will be changed to instantaneous
and/or definite time overcurrent relay settings to low fault currents. Since the adaptive protection relay
is a digital relay, the relay’s setting would adjust the operational mode of the network. One example
would be when there is a large voltage depression case, the restraint voltage overcurrent protection
would decrease delay tripping, which is the time dial in the relay setting.

3.2. Differential Protection

This protection is used on the coupled differential directional relays. It can accurately identify
the location and remove the fault without disrupting the components in the system. This protection
is used in traditional protection technologies. However, it can be used for both islanded mode
and grid-connected in the microgrid. Differential protection can be either localized or centralized.
The definition of centralized means it is coordinated and monitored by the central controls.
The definition of localization means it is created from the local communication among the relays.
The localized scheme, which is more acceptable for applications of the industry, allows communication
directly among the relays where the fault will have the fastest solution for it. In the centralized
scheme, the topology of the microgrid and power device’s setting operation is monitored by the central
controllers. Then, the tripping of the command is sent to the power device when the fault is sensed.
This scheme provides precise results with an unacceptable time delay to do calculation, which is
required by the central controllers.

3.3. Real-Time Closed-Loop Test to Adaptive Protection in a Smart-Grid Context

The purpose of this research is to show the viability of real-time and automated adjustment in the
setting of commercial relay protection. To illustrate it, a commercial protection relay and Real-Time
Digital Simulator (RTDS) with a closed-loop test rig used to set up. The commercial relay protection
uses the theory of adaptive protection while the RTDS set is real-time automated with various functions
of protection.
The first test is about testing smart substation control (SSC) using a real-time closed-loop test.
The equipment for the setup is an RTDS and EFACEC TPU S220, which is the commercial relay.
Using the network’s actual state, the SSC can verify whether the network is in a sympathetic tripping
situation. The SSC collects real-time information from the local sensors to know the network’s
actual state and the sympathetic tripping evaluation. Based on the SSC mode of operation, to avoid
sympathetic tripping, the protection group values of the feeder relay might alter.
The second test is the adaptive protection test. For this test, the researcher has done two case
studies: one where the SSC was halted, and the other one was SSC activated. The preset of the
parameters and functions of the protection relay is controlled by the SSC to change automatically
when the SSC is activated. Under the SSC, there are two setting groups. They are default settings
and sympathetic tripping. The default setting is named group 1, while the setting for sympathetic
tripping is group 2. Once the SSC senses the possible occurrence of synthetic tripping, it will change
from group 1 to group 2.

3.4. Dual Complex Adaptive Protection Algorithm for Microgrid

The power demand has been growing, and the traditional energy sources are depleting.
So, the penetration of DERs has been introduced to the microgrid. Therefore, the microgrid cannot
Electronics 2020, 9, 1959 4 of 14

use the conventional power protection scheme [10]. The power flow of the microgrid is bidirectional.
Therefore, it affects the operation of the protection as well as coordination. In the traditional power
grid, the power flow is one-directional.
Therefore, one of the researchers has projected the dual simplex algorithm for the novel adaptive
overcurrent protection for a microgrid. The projected algorithm should be able to detect the operation
time and time multiplier setting (TMS) of the relay for a given microgrid type. This information is
saved in the lookup table, which is in the central protection system. The lookup table should find
suitable protection coordination when there is a fault in the microgrid.

4. Distributed Energy Resources

Distribution protection has been significantly impacted by the penetration of distributed energy
resources (DER) [11]. Many components affect the current flow during the load flow and short-circuit
analysis. They are generated power, short-circuit contribution, and the operating state of DERs.
Maintaining the feeder, DERs, and monitoring the protection’s selectivity and sensitivity with a quick
response is challenging when there is a greater integration of DERs.

4.1. Time Consuming

As the network changes over time, it is difficult to coordinate and analyze the distribution system
protection and the time characteristic curve (TCC). The coordination of the protection should be
checked throughout in every switching device and the volatile output of DERs. This means that the
engineers must do many analyses of the TCC until they get the correct protection coordination for the
device. For the above scenarios, some revision needs to be done in the setting where the protection
engineers need reconfirmation of the new protection setting.

4.2. Impact of Voltage Device Stability

During the generation process, the present feeder loading patterns change due to the DER’s
interconnection, and the correct voltage value will also be changed [12]. The loading pattern will be
changed by the DER along with the feeder. The previous load pattern, which is set by the existing
voltage device control, may no longer deliver the correct voltage regulation. The design of the existing
devices should be able to provide an acceptable steady state of the voltage regulation. It is from zero to
full load. The impact might be less when the DER is only serving at the local load. The voltage devices
such as voltage regulators, transformer load-tap-changing (LTC), and capacitors will have to study
accurately to accommodate DER. This will happen when the DERs are at a higher level and reverse
flow is encountered.

4.3. Impact of the Fault Duty of Circuit Breakers

Before installing the DER, the circuit breakers are planned in the network regarding which
circuit breakers are to be opened when a fault occurs. DER is an example of generation sources.
Therefore, the DER will be added to the accessible fault duty on distribution feeders. In the radical
direction, the present relays are set to operate. It is coordinated such that customer interruption is
less with the downstream protection devices. It is done by introducing DER coordination changes.
In addition, having more DERs on the feeder means that there are many sources, and coordination
becomes complex.

5. Algorithm for Adaptive Overcurrent Relay Protection

Adaptive overcurrent protection is more efficient than traditional overcurrent protection.
The traditional overcurrent protection relay is not flexible in adjusting to the network parameters
automatically. It must be done manually. This might lead to the wrong isolation of the fault.
However, for adaptive overcurrent protection, it uses real-time values automatically and isolates the
 Electronics 2020, 9, 1959 5 of 14

fault very fast. Therefore, there is less or no wrong isolation of the fault. The reason why adaptive
protection is more effective than traditional protection will be explained under discussion using the
four key points.
An algorithm is developed for adaptive overcurrent relay, which is explained as follows.
The flowchart of the algorithm is given in Figure 1. The new adaptive relay connected to the
network will firstly do an auto-calibrate. After that, the parameters of Ipickup , Time Dial Setting (TDS),
and the fault current will be preset to zero. Following, it will do a Newton–Raphson analysis, which is
the load flow and short-circuit analysis. Then, it will calculate the Ipickup . The 1.5 in the Ipickup represents
the safety
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Figure 1. Algorithm of adaptive overcurrent protection.

Figure 1. Algorithm of adaptive overcurrent protection.

6. Validation and Verification of Microgrid Simulation Studies

Figure 2 represents the IEEE-9 bus system connected to a microgrid system [15]. In this system,
Electronics 2020, 9, 1959 6 of 14

Then, the relay will check for any changes in the system. If there is no change, it will calculate for
new TDS. However, there is a change to the system when the load value changes or the distributed
generator (DG) connection value changes. All the necessary changes for load or DG are communicated
through the relay. This results in a new set of parameters for Ipickup and TDS generated.
The next step is identifying the fault and its location by using the overcurrent equation, which is
denoted by “(1)” in the algorithm.
The principle of overcurrent protection is shown in (1).

I0 > Ipickup (1)

In the overcurrent principle, there are two conditions. The first condition is “Normal Condition”,
where there is no fault. The relay will not operate for circuit breakers (CB) to trip, which means that I’
is smaller than the Ipickup . T is the representation of the second condition, which is the short-circuit
fault condition. When I’ is greater the Ipickup , the relay determines the mode of operation.
After determining the mode of protection, it issues a command for which CB to trip. Once the
fault is cleared, it will restore to the original condition. It continues to do the same process for the next
iteration where N = N + 1.

Implementation of the Algorithm in an Existing Distribution System

The developed algorithm can be implemented in the actual distribution system using supervisory
control and data acquisition (SCADA) and ETAP Real-Time. The latest ETAP software should be used
for the implementation.
The information system portrays a key importance in the application of new ideas in the control
and monitoring of the power network [14]. The new feature in the SCADA system is the state estimation
concept. It supports the advancement of the information system and automation schemes. The SCADA
system uses real-time in ETAP software which, in turn, allows the execution of the state estimate.
Real-time simulation is one of the needs that Engineers use these days. It uses the execution
of new solutions in monitoring, the control system, and automation. This concept is created as the
foundation for a combination of two technologies for the simulation of control systems and monitoring.
The real-time not only has characteristics for dynamics but also has physical counterparts for a
correct simulation time of response. The time required for simulation to produce improvements or
results is roughly about the time needed for the actual system. The latest technology has allowed the
exchange of data across the telecommunication protocols to be improved. In the electrical system, it is
taken as part of the control and monitoring of the system.
The SCADA plays a key role in the execution of an autonomous system. It makes sure the power
system has high efficiency and security in the system, the quality, and permanence of the power supply.
The current applications of a SCADA system are increasing. It can analyze and obtain the data that is
from an online connection.
The state estimator concept is used by the ETAP real-time application. The application needs
the power network’s model for load flow calculation as well as measurement integration. It is for
collecting online data by using communication protocols.
Based on the above concepts, it should be able to implement the algorithm in the actual power
distribution system.

6. Validation and Verification of Microgrid Simulation Studies

Figure 2 represents the IEEE-9 bus system connected to a microgrid system [15]. In this system,
there are three wind turbine generators (WTG) with different parameters being used. Adaptive overcurrent
protection and differential transformer protection are being used in this system.
Electronics 2020, 9, 1959 7 of 14
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Electronics 2019, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 7 of 15

Figure 2. IEEE-9 bus system with microgrid

Figure 2. microgrid network.
network.

The tripping of the

As mentioned protection
before, relayofhappens
the value when a fault
SF is normally occurs
set to based
1.5. The on the following
following equation.
is an example of
adaptive protection using the algorithm. Figure 3 shows0.14 the steps on how the algorithm works in
tTrip = Tp  0.02
ETAP software using Line2 having a fault. (2)
IF
I − 1
P

The tTrip is the tripping time of the relay, while Tp , IF , and IP are the time multiplier setting (TMS),
fault current, and pickup current, respectively. The fault current always depends on the short circuit
fault and the system model. The values of Tp and Ip are relay settings. The value of Ip should be
greater than the maximum load current. This is measured by the current transformer and leaving some
safety factor (SF). Therefore, the pickup current is calculated in the following manner.

=system
Figure 2. IEEE-9Ipbus Imaxmicrogrid
SF × with load network. (3)

AsAsmentioned
mentionedbefore,
before, the
the value
value of
of SF
SF is
is normally
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Thefollowing
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exampleof of
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shows the steps on how the algorithm
adaptive protection using the algorithm. Figure 3 shows the steps on how the algorithm works works in in
ETAP
ETAP softwareusing
software usingLine2
Line2having
havingaafault.
fault.
In simple terms, this action summarizes that there is a three-phase fault at Line3. Then, CB6 and
CB8 will start to operate by opening them. Once the isolation is done, both CB6 and CB8 will close.
The system is back to normal. The following results are the during and after the fault.
During the fault, CB6 will trip first, followed by CB8 this is shown in Figure 4.

Figure
Figure 3. Actionsummary.
3. Action summary.

In simple terms, this action summarizes that there is a three-phase fault at Line3. Then, CB6 and
CB8 will start to operate by opening them. Once the isolation is done, both CB6 and CB8 will close.
The system is back to normal. The following results are the during and after the fault.
During the fault, CB6 will trip first, followed by CB8 this is shown in Figure 4.
 Electronics 2020, 9, 1959 8 of 14

In simple terms, this action summarizes that there is a three-phase fault at Line3. Then, CB6 and
CB8 will start to operate by opening them. Once the isolation is done, both CB6 and CB8 will close.
The system is back to normal. The following results are the during and after the fault.
During
Electronics 2019,the
8, x fault, CB6REVIEW
FOR PEER will trip first, followed by CB8 this is shown in Figure 4. 8 of 15

Electronics 2019, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 8 of 15

Figure
Figure 4.
4. During the fault.

The
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fault is isolated.After isolating
After the fault,
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the system to back
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The
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Figure 4. During the fault.
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When a fault occurs between Bus 4 and Bus 6 as shown in Figure 5, CB6 will open first as the following is an example of
when
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current also and developed
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the fault current WTG1 = 3The
is atincreases. kW.
Therefore, the relay needs to recalculate the parameters when WTG1
following results shown in Figures 5 and 6 are the comparison between the overcurrent protection= 3 kW. The following results are
when the developed algorithm of adaptive overcurrent
and developed algorithm of the adaptive overcurrent protection. protection is used.

Figure 5. Adaptive overcurrent protection.

Adaptive
Figure5.5.Adaptive
Figure overcurrentprotection.
overcurrent protection.
 Electronics 2019, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 9 of 15

Electronics 2020, 9, 1959 9 of 14

Electronics 2019, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 9 of 15

Figure 6. After isolating the fault.

Figure 7 shows the results when Figure

WTG1 6. After
= 1.2isolating
kW andtheWTG1
fault. = 3 kW. Parts (a) and (b) in Figure
7 do not match. The overcurrent relay is fixed at the original parameters, which is at WTG1 = 3 kW.
Figurethe
Therefore, 7 shows the results
relay needs when WTG1
to recalculate = 1.2 kW and
the parameters WTG1
when WTG1= 3 kW. PartsThe
= 3 kW. (a) following
and (b) in results
Figure
7 do not match. The overcurrent relay is fixed at the original parameters,
are when the developed algorithm of adaptive overcurrent protection is used. which is at WTG1 = 3 kW.
Therefore, the relay needs to recalculate the parameters when WTG1 = 3 kW. The following results
are when the developed algorithm of adaptive overcurrent protection is used.

After isolating
Figure6.6.After
Figure isolating the
thefault.
fault.

Figure 7 shows the results when WTG1 = 1.2 kW and WTG1 = 3 kW. Parts (a) and (b) in Figure
7 do not match. The overcurrent relay is fixed at the original parameters, which is at WTG1 = 3 kW.
Therefore, the relay needs to recalculate the parameters when WTG1 = 3 kW. The following results
are when the developed algorithm of adaptive overcurrent protection is used.

(a) WTG1 = 1.2 kW (b) WTG1 = 3 kW

(a) WTG1 = 1.2 kW (b) WTG1 = 3 kW

Figure 7. Overcurrent protection.
Figure 7. Overcurrent protection.
However, in Figure 8, part (a)Figureand (b)7. Overcurrent
both get theprotection.
same tripping sequence. The reason is that
adaptive overcurrent
However, in Figurerelay uses
8, part (a) the
and real-time
(b) both getvalue. Therefore,
the same trippingthere is no The
sequence. need for human
reason is that
However,
intervention.
adaptive in Figure
The relay8,uses
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overcurrent part (a)real-time
figure
the and (b) value.
represents both get the samethere
a comparison
Therefore, tripping
between sequence.
is nothe two
need Thewhen
forrelays
human reasontheis load
that
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adaptive
value
The overcurrent
changes.figure
following The load relay uses
value changes
represents the real-time value.
from 1 between
a comparison MVA to 3the Therefore,
MVA. there is no need for human
two relays when the load value changes.
intervention. The following figure represents
The load value changes from 1 MVA to 3 MVA. a comparison between the two relays when the load
value changes. The load value changes from 1 MVA to 3 MVA.

(a) WTG1 = 1.2 kW (b) WTG1 = 3 kW

Figure 7. Overcurrent protection.

However, in Figure 8, part (a) and (b) both get the same tripping sequence. The reason is that
adaptive overcurrent relay uses the real-time value. Therefore, there is no need for human
intervention. The following figure represents a comparison between the two relays when the load
value changes. The load value changes from 1 MVA to 3 MVA.
(a) WTG1 = 1.2 kW (b) WTG1 = 3 kW
8. Developed
Figure(a) WTG1 = 1.2algorithm
kW of adaptive overcurrent
(b) WTG1replay
= 3 kWprotection.
Figure 8. Developed algorithm of adaptive overcurrent replay protection.
Based on the Figure 9, it can be concluded that using overcurrent protection is not effective if
Figure 8. Developed algorithm of adaptive overcurrent replay protection.
the load value changes. As the overcurrent protection relay does not have the function of capturing
the real values automatically, it needs to recalculate manually. However, for adaptive overcurrent
protection, it adjusts automatically to the changes. Therefore, adaptive overcurrent protection is more
effective than overcurrent protection.

(a) WTG1 = 1.2 kW (b) WTG1 = 3 kW

Figure 8. Developed algorithm of adaptive overcurrent replay protection.

 Electronics 2019, 8, x FOR PEER REVIEW 10 of 15

Based on the Figure 9, it can be concluded that using overcurrent protection is not effective if the
load value changes. As the overcurrent protection relay does not have the function of capturing the
real values automatically, it needs to recalculate manually. However, for adaptive overcurrent
protection,
Electronics it adjusts automatically to the changes. Therefore, adaptive overcurrent protection is more
2020, 9, 1959 10 of 14
effective than overcurrent protection.

(a) Overcurrent Protection

(b) Adaptive Overcurrent

Protection
Figure 9. Comparison between two relays when load value changes.
Figure 9. Comparison between two relays when load value changes.
The following Table 1 is the comparison between the adaptive overcurrent protection and
overcurrentThe followingBased
protection. Table on
1 isthe
the comparison itbetween
comparison, the adaptive
can be said overcurrent
that adaptive protection
overcurrent and
protection
overcurrent protection. Based on the comparison, it can be said that adaptive overcurrent
relay is a better option than overcurrent protection. The reason for that is if a fault occurs, protection
relay is a better option than overcurrent protection. The reason for that is if a fault occurs, adaptive
adaptive overcurrent relay will isolate the fault accurately and quickly for all the scenarios mentioned.
overcurrent relay will isolate the fault accurately and quickly for all the scenarios mentioned.
However, for overcurrent protection, when there is no change in the network, the isolation will be
However, for overcurrent protection, when there is no change in the network, the isolation will be
correct correct
on its first try. For the rest of the scenarios, the correct isolation will happen after many attempts.
on its first try. For the rest of the scenarios, the correct isolation will happen after many
attempts.
Table 1. Comparison between the two relays.
Table 1. Protection
Overcurrent Comparison between theAdaptive
Relay two relays.
Overcurrent Protection Relay
Overcurrent
1 Time Protection Relay
More than 1 Time Adaptive
1 Time Overcurrent Protection
More than 1Relay
Time
No change in the network 1 Time
X More than 1 X
1 Time More than 1 Time
Change in load parameter Time
X X
Change
No in DG parameters
change in the X X
 
network
TheChange in load
following Table 2 is the representation
 of the tripping
 sequence between two buses.
parameter
Change in DG Table 2. Tripping
 sequence between two buses.
parameters
Bus No. Primary Protection Backup Protection
The following
Bus4Table 2 is the representation
and Bus5 CB5 andofCB7
the tripping sequence between two buses.
CB9
Bus4 and Bus6 CB6 and CB8 CB10
Bus5 and Bus7 CB9 and CB40 CB22
Bus6 and Bus9 CB10 and CB12 CB20
Bus7 and Bus8 CB17 and CB32 CB22
Bus10 and Bus11 CB26 and CB27 CB28
Bus10 and Bus13 CB3 and CB11 CB16
Bus11 and Bus12 CB28 and CB29 CB36
Bus12 and Bus14 CB36 and CB37 CB24
Bus13 and Bus14 CB16 and CB19 CB24
Bus14 and Bus15 CB24 and CB25 CB30
Bus15 and Bus16 CB30 and CB46 CB45
Bus16 and Bus17 CB42 and CB45 CB46

The transformers will be protected by differential transformer protection, which is denoted by

relay 87. It only protects the internal fault of the transformer and does not protect any external fault. By
 Bus15 and Bus16 CB30 and CB46 CB45
Bus16 and Bus17 CB42 and CB45 CB46

The transformers will be protected by differential transformer protection, which is denoted by

relay 87. It only protects the internal fault of the transformer and does not protect any external fault.
Electronics 2020, 9, 1959
By adding an overcurrent relay, it will protect the external faults of the transformer. Figure 1011isofan14

example of the external and internal fault of a transformer. These results are based on when WTG1 =
3 kW. an overcurrent relay, it will protect the external faults of the transformer. Figure 10 is an example
adding
of the external and internal fault of a transformer. These results are based on when WTG1 = 3 kW.

(a) External Fault (b) Internal Fault

Figure 10. External and internal fault of transformer.
Figure 10. External and internal fault of transformer.
For this simulation, Relay 21 operates as the created algorithm adaptive protection.
For this
However, the simulation,
internal faultRelay 21operated
that is operatesby asRelay
the created
22 will algorithm
only trip CB1adaptive protection.
and CB2. However,
The results for the
the internal fault that is operated by Relay
rest of the transformers are shown in Table 3. 22 will only trip CB1 and CB2. The results for the rest of
the transformers are shown in Table 3.
There is no Table 3. Tripping
backup sequence
protection for for
anyexternal and internal
transformer faultsfault.
internal of theHowever,
transformer.
in order to have
backup protection, an overcurrent relay connects to it. For this simulation, an adaptive overcurrent
Transformer No. External Fault Internal Fault Backup Protection
protection algorithm is being used.
T1 CB13 and CB14 CB13 and CB14 CB35
T2 CB22 and CB33 CB22 and CB33 CB34
Table 3. Tripping sequence for external and internal faults of the transformer.
T3 CB20 and CB21 CB20 and CB21 CB23
T4 Transformer No. CB1 and CB2
External Fault CB1 and CB2
Internal Fault CB3
Backup Protection
T1 CB13 and CB14 CB13 and CB14 CB35
There isT2
no backup protection
CB22forand
anyCB33
transformer
CB22 andinternal
CB33 fault.
CB34However, in order to have
backup protection,
T3 an overcurrent relay
CB20 connects
and CB21 to it. For
CB20 andthis simulation,
CB21 CB23 an adaptive overcurrent
protection algorithm
T4 is being used.
CB1 and CB2 CB1 and CB2 CB3

7. Discussion
To establish a good performance of a relay in the distribution network, four key characteristics are
used when choosing a relay. They are selectivity, reliability, sensitivity, and speed [16].

• Selectivity: When operating a fault, only a small number of fault interruption devices should
be used.
• Reliability: The precision of the functioning relay. The precision is determined by the
following equation.

Number o f correct trips

% Reliability = × 100% (4)
Number o f desired trips + Number o f incorrect trips
Under reliability, there are two key essentials. They are dependability and security. Unwanted
actions are removed under security. Dependability is how precise the tripping of the circuit breaker is
when a fault occurs. Security can be improved by the selectivity of the system relay, while dependability
can be improved by having a higher sensitivity level in the system relay.

• Sensitivity: The protection relay in the system should sense the smallest fault current value.
More sensitivity means when the protection relay can sense the smallest value of the fault current.
Improving the efficiency of the sensitivity is by looking for that specific thing that makes the fault
unique. The faults that happened in the system may not be the same every time.
Electronics 2020, 9, 1959 12 of 14

• Speed: How quickly the relay can isolate the fault when a fault occurs, without interrupting the
unaffected zones of the network.

Based on the above characteristics, the comparison between two protective relays (overcurrent
relay and adaptive overcurrent relay) is shown in Table 4 below. This comparison is done based on the
results of Figures 7 and 8.

Table 4. Comparison between overcurrent relay and adaptive overcurrent relay.

Key Points Overcurrent Relay Adaptive Overcurrent Relay

Selectivity Not very high Very high
Reliability Not very reliable Very reliable
Sensitivity Less sensitive Most sensitive
Quickly isolate the fault. However, it will interrupt Quickly isolate fault without
Speed
the unaffected zones if DGs are connected. interrupting the unaffected zones.

Based on the above table, it shows that adaptive overcurrent protection is a better option compared to
overcurrent protection. The main reason is the adaptive overcurrent protection quickly isolates the fault
without disturbing the unaffected area, even when DGs are connected. That is because this relay can
achieve real-time values. It is not fixed at one value. However, overcurrent protection is not effective when
DGs are connected. The current value changes and is fixed to operate at one value. This can be seen in
Figures 6 and 7. In addition, the algorithm of adaptive overcurrent relay protection can be used for any
type of grid and is not fixed to one. However, it is more effective to use in any smart-grid system.
Before the digital relays, conventional relays were famous. The idea of the digital relay was spread
around in 1985 [17]. One example of the digital relay is the adaptive overcurrent relay. By comparing
to the conventional relay, the digital relay has more functions on the monitoring side. In terms of the
usage, the functions are flexible [18]. The digital relay can create complicated functions. The efficiency
is high, and it can interconnect with other digital equipment. The digital relay has more advantages
over conventional relay. The following are the most noticeable advantages. It is easy to control and set
up. The action of the operation is fast. There is a communication line between the various relays and
the protection coordination. This helps isolate the fault fully.

7.1. Disturbances in the Electrical Grid

Due to the power quality disturbance in the industrial electrical grid, the algorithm might not work
accurately as compared to the ETAP software. The main reason for this is power quality disturbance.
The ETAP software assumes all the power quality disturbances are taken care of by the software itself.
However, in the industrial electrical grid, the power quality disturbances have to be taken into consideration.
Supraharmonic emission is something new and can affect the infrastructure of any kind of smart
grid. PLC communication is one example of it. Due to today’s new electronics, this emission has
increased. Energy efficiency devices for domestic uses and power electronics are included as a key
source of supraharmonic emission in the smart grid. The following are some of the sources with the
emission frequency [19].

• PV inverters: 4–20 kHz

• EV chargers: 15–100 kHz
• Domestic devices: 2–150 kHz
• Streetlamps: Up to 20 kHz
• Converter (Industrial-size): 9–150 kHz

It is harder to identify supraharmonic emission when comparing to harmonic emission for a

traditional grid. There is a standard harmonic emission set for PV installation and equipment with low
voltage. Therefore, they are not categorized as supraharmonic emissions.
Electronics 2020, 9, 1959 13 of 14

7.2. Solutions for DERs Challengers

There are challenges for having many DERs in the network, which will be mentioned in the
following [20]. The first one is that during island mode, the current control strategy is not able to work.
The reason for that is no main energy source. The second one is that the microgrid needs fast regulation
in the islanded mode because there are many capacities in multiple strategies. The last one is that when
the DERs values are high, there is a problem in the distribution network. The problems are the voltage
and network frequency being unstable and voltage level rise. The microgrid can solve such problems.
The following are some of the solutions to the challenges. Using the DER’s options, system reliability
and flexibility can be improved. Then, the generation efficiency can be improved by the DER’s waste
heat. Another one is without disrupting the public grid operation, the integration of DER can be done
by permitting the power network to inspect and control the fault more effectively. At the same time,
the damage caused by the disruption of the DER should be reduced by constantly feeding critical loads.

8. Conclusions
This paper presents the challenges for microgrid protection as well as possible solutions for
the challenges when the distributed energy resources are involved. Using a microgrid network,
both overcurrent and adaptive overcurrent protection are compared using the characteristic of choosing
a relay. The most efficient protection relay is adaptive overcurrent protection based on the four key points.
It is automatically adapted to real-time changes. The conventional relay is fixed at one parameter. It can
be concluded that conventional relays are more efficient in the traditional power system, while adaptive
overcurrent relay is suitable for any type of grid. An algorithm is proposed to overcome the challenges
with the modern power network, such as a microgrid with distributed energy resources. The test
results for various types of faults such as line faults, transformer faults, and faults when the wind
turbine generators are connected in the system of the IEEE 9 bus network with a microgrid demonstrate
the effectiveness of the proposed adaptive overcurrent protection algorithm. In addition, details are
provided to protect the internal and external fault of the transformer. The performance of the proposed
algorithm is compared with the conventional protection. Therefore, this paper proves that traditional
types of relay protection are not efficient for these types of modern power networks such as the smart
grid, and hence, this paper contributes to implementing the adaptive overcurrent protection for an
advanced power network with distributed energy resources. Adaptive overcurrent protection will be
one of the useful and effective protection in the upcoming networks as there will be technologies such
as AI and IoT, which uses real-time values.

Author Contributions: Conceptualization, C.C., T.N.R. and T.L.; methodology, C.C.; software, C.C.; validation;
C.C.; formal analysis, C.C.; investigation, C.C.; resources, C.C., T.N.R. and T.L.; data curation, C.C.;
writing—original draft preparation, C.C.; writing—review and editing, C.C., T.N.R. and G.P.; visualization,
C.C. and T.N.R.; supervision, T.N.R. and T.L.; project administration, C.C. and T.N.R.; funding acquisition, T.N.R.
All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.
Funding: This research received no external funding.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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