Multi‐agent based protection scheme using current‐only directional overcurrent relays for looped/meshed distribution systems

Abstract

The complexity of the design of the protection system using directional over current relays, for modern power distribution systems has been increased due to the looped/meshed operation and the penetration of distributed generations. Finding a reliable and efficient protection scheme that can be easily implemented in these distribution systems is a major challenge. An efficient solution could be the use of artificial intelligent-based multi-agent systems. This paper proposes a novel distributed intelligent based multi-agent protection scheme, which makes use of current-only directional over current relays as agents for detecting and locating faults and isolating faulty areas (lines/busbars) in the distribution systems. All agents can make on-board decisions by exchanging binary data, and do not need a control centre, so the safety of the protection system against one-point failures and cyber-attacks is increased. The proposed scheme does not need to exchange analogue data, and, therefore, it prevents the high bandwidth communication links. Moreover, it is free from the traditional coordination between relays. This scheme is implemented on the IEEE-14 bus and IEEE-30 bus test systems with the distributed generations and several scenarios have been simulated to evaluate its performance.

Optimal adaptive protection of smart grids using high‐set relays and smart selection of relay tripping characteristics considering different network configurations and operation modes

“…As discussed, it is crucial to properly protect the SGs and ADNs using the DOCRs [59,60]. The satisfaction of protection coordination constraints and the speed of the protection systems are two essential issues that should be simultaneously concerned [61,62]. The direction and magnitude of short circuit current passing through the distribution lines and corresponding relays are influenced by integrating the DGs into the conventional passive distribution networks [63,64].…”

Investigating the performance of non‐standard characteristics‐based overcurrent relays and their optimum coordination in distributed generators connected networks

“…To confirm the reliability, the backup relay must trip only after the operational time of the primary relay and its associated circuit breaker, plus overshoot time. Mathematically, the coordination constraint is described by Equation (2).…”

“…In ring‐main, parallel feeders and multi‐looped distribution systems, the directional overcurrent relays (DOCRs) are typically employed [1, 2]. The proper coordination of the DOCRs is an essential requirement that ensures that the primary relays activate first [3].…”

A robust decision framework for strategic behaviour of integrated energy service provider with embedded natural gas and power systems in day‐ahead wholesale market

“…Needless to say, the IESP is obliged to optimally manage all the DERs, DRP and WM offers/bids as well as NGN variables, such as the amount of stored natural gas and node pressure, to securely satisfy its electrical and natural gas demand with the least possible operational cost, using optimal power flow methods [10]. The problem, however, is that wholesale market operator (WMO) clears the day‐ahead WM intending to maximize social welfare, which contradicts the operational cost objective of IESP [11]. For this reason, a bi‐level hierarchical optimization framework should be deployed by IESP that strategically models the optimal response of WMO to the submitted offers/bids in day‐ahead WM [12].…”