Review of Networked Microgrid Protection: Architectures, Challenges, Solutions, and Future Trends

Design and selection of advanced protection schemes have become essential for reliable and secure operation of networked microgrids. Various protection schemes that allow correct operation of microgrids have been proposed for individual systems in different topologies and connections. Nevertheless, protection schemes for networked microgrids are still in development, and further research is required to design and operate advanced protection in interconnected systems. Interconnection of these microgrids in different nodes with various interconnection technologies increases fault occurrence and complicates protection operation. This paper aims to point out challenges in developing protection for networked microgrids, potential solutions, and research areas that need to be addressed for their development. First, this article presents a systematic analysis of different microgrid clusters proposed since 2016, including several architectures of networked microgrids, operation modes, components, and utilization of renewable sources, which have not been widely explored in previous review papers. Second, the paper presents a discussion on protection systems currently available for microgrid clusters, current challenges, and solutions that have been proposed for these systems. Finally, it discusses the trend of protection schemes in networked microgrids and presents some conclusions related to implementation.