Fault location in distribution feeders with distributed generation

This paper presents an algorithm for fault location in medium-voltage power distribution networks with distributed energy resources along their feeders. The proposed algorithm is able to locate the points of fault correctly, using voltage and current measurements acquired at the substation bus and where the distributed generation units are connected. Thus, it uses detailed information about the electrical parameters of the feeders and an estimation of the electrical loads, then proceeds with the calculations in order to pinpoint all the possible points of fault. This article presents a study case with a typical overhead distribution line simulated in the Alternative Transient Program and the results of the proposed algorithm.