Impact of distributed generation on the protection of distribution networks

This article is based on power system simulation studies carried out by VTT Processes of Finland and the University of Vaasa. The PSCAD (Power System Computer-Aided-Design) power system simulation software developed by the Manitoba HVDC Research Centre has been applied to these studies. One of the key issues has been to verify that traditional network protection schemes and settings are simply not adequate when there are Distributed Generation (DG) systems connected to the network. The protection coordination between network protection and the protection of the DG units has also been studied. The results of these studies will be used to focus further research and development in protection systems and concepts