Downtime measurements of generator-powered microgrid during planned and unplanned transfer to island mode

Growing popularity of distributed generation isdrawing special attention to communication technologies in smartpower grids. This paper provides a detailed overview of thecommunication protocols utilized in the modern distributed gridlaboratory. It describes both wired and wireless technologies usedin Smart Grid and presents the remote operation of switchingthe subsystem from grid mode to island mode operating undernominal conditions. It shows the duration of power outagesduring a transfer to island mode with diesel generator runningon idle - which simulates planned islanding and diesel generatorstationary, which simulates unplanned islanding. Latency betweenregistration of disturbance and executing control commandis measured. The results obtained are compared with currentlegislation. The consequences to the power system that arepossible in both scenarios are highlighted. Obtained results anddescription of the communication technologies can be useful forthe design of distributed power grids, island-mode power grids,and Smart Grids, as well as for further research in the area ofusing combustion fuel generators as a primary power supply inthe microgrid