Protection system monitoring in electric networks with embedded generation using petri nets

The connection of distributed generation (DG) essentially changes the distribution network operation and creates a range of well-documented effects varying the voltage levels and short circuit currents. Among others, DG can alter protection system operations in distribution networks, leading to the failure of reclosing, the disconnection of the healthy feeder or the prevention of a protection operation. This paper proposes a procedure, based on Petri nets and supported by a centralized monitoring architecture, for monitoring failures of the protection systems in radial distribution networks. Some case studies applied to a real Italian distribution network proved the effectiveness of the proposed procedure that can therefore represent an effective solution to improve distribution systems reliability in the presence of DG. Copyright ©2008 The Berkeley Electronic Press. All rights reserved.