A new fault location method for distribution system under smart grid environment

Abstract

If the smart grid concept is realized, present protection strategy of distribution systems is not applicable any more because of bi-directional fault currents. In this paper, a fault location method is suggested for a distribution system with multi-power sources. Assuming that loading condition is not changed abruptly, and that voltage and current phasors are available at both ends, faulted section is identified and fault location is calculated iteratively. The suggested method is applied to a simple distribution system with power sources at both ends to show its possibility of application and effectiveness.