article · IEEE Systems Journal
Connecting distributed generation units to power distribution networks alleviates extreme loading on the central grid. However, these generators can produce high fault currents that exceed existing circuit breaker ratings. A single-stage planning method coordinates the placement and sizing of diverse distributed generation units alongside fault current limiters. The approach relies on a fuzzy-based multi-objective formulation solved with the coyote optimisation algorithm to simultaneously minimise power losses, suppress fault currents, and economise the sizing of limiters. Evaluated across standard IEEE test systems and the Egyptian East Delta distribution network under normal and faulty conditions, the single-stage framework achieves acceptable reductions in power losses and fault levels. The results demonstrate that coordinating generators and limiters in a unified stage performs effectively compared to conventional two-stage approaches.
Expanding renewable and decentralised energy sources is vital for modern energy transitions, but sudden power surges during network faults risk damaging infrastructure and triggering widespread outages. By optimising where generation units and protective limiters are installed together, distribution utilities can safely integrate local power sources, maintain equipment safety, and avoid costly circuit breaker replacements while cutting transmission losses.
This methodology offers practical utility for electrical distribution network operators and grid planning engineers seeking to connect distributed generation without exceeding protective hardware limits. The work sits at an applied simulation stage, having been tested on standard benchmarks and the regional Egyptian East Delta system. Translating it into commercial grid planning software requires further operational trials within utility control centres.
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Integration of distributed generating (DGs) units helps in reducing the extreme loading on the main power grid. DGs are convoyed with high fault currents. High fault currents exceed the ratings of circuit breakers. This article proposes optimal allocation of different types of DGs units correlated with fault current limiters (FCLs) in single stage. The proposed method is assessed with two-stage approach that is carried out based on coyote optimization algorithm (COA) and electrical transient analyzer program (ETAP) at normal and faulty operating conditions, respectively. For this target, a fuzzy-based multiobjective (FBMO) formulation is proposed for enhancing the distribution system performance in both operating conditions. It aims at minimizing the power losses, reducing the fault currents in the network with economizing the installed FCLs sizes. To handle FBMO formulation, the COA has been employed to search for the optimal combination between DGs and FCLs. The proposed methodology is studied on IEEE 33-bus, 69-bus, and the Egyptian East Delta distribution systems. Acceptable power losses and fault level reduction are achieved for normal and faulty operating conditions. Therefore, the effectiveness and capability of the employed single stage for DG units correlated with FCLs allocation are proved compared with bistage approach.
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DOI: 10.1109/jsyst.2020.3009028
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