Fault location identification in smart distribution networks with Distributed Generation

In this paper, based on the measurements available from the smart grid devices such as Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), Reclosers, Distributed Generators (DG) and other IEDs, a fault location identification method is proposed that can accurately identify the fault location. The algorithm is suitable for distribution networks with DG and smart measurement infrastructure that can transmit event-driven data such as pre and post-fault voltages or currents of scarce number of meters. A MATLAB-based state estimation (SE) technique is applied to identify the fault location, and the open source tool OpenDSS is used to perform the offline validation by creating faults in simulation. The IEEE 37 node test feeder was modified to add DGs at different locations and was used for the validation of the proposed algorithm. Multiple faults (both symmetrical and unsymmetrical) were created for the exhaustive validation of the technique. In more than 90% of the cases the location was identified in the first guess and for the remaining 10% it took second guess and the faulted node was indeed near to the first guess.