Critical considerations for utility/cogeneration inter-tie protection scheme configuration

For interties between cogeneration plants and existing host utility power systems, special considerations must be given to protection systems. The considerations are reviewed in light of contemporary experience with midsize cogenerating plants. Typical intertie configurations are deliberated. Implications on the design of protection systems are emphasized. Relevant protection schemes are presented, and their advantages and disadvantages are evaluated. The importance of examining the protection scheme requirements during the conceptual design stage of a cogenerating plant is demonstrated