Protection of Distributed Generation: Challenges and Solutions

Distributed generation (DG) is the future of energy. This technology allows the bidirectional flow of power within an electrical network. Researchers are faced with many challenges to the accurate implementation of protection schemes for DG-connected distribution network. The schemes designed must satisfy the performance requirements of selectivity, reliability, and sensitivity. Most researchers opine that conventional protection schemes based on over current detection are insufficient to completely and accurately protect a DG-connected distributed power system. There are many challenges that need to be tackled before embarking upon the journey to successfully implement these schemes. This paper summarizes the major challenges which one can encounter while designing protection schemes for DG-connected distribution networks. Some possible solutions from the literature are also mentioned. Moreover, a suggested solution for protecting future active distribution networks is provided. It is expected that this paper will act as a benchmark for future researchers in this field to tackle the challenges related to the protection of active distribution networks.