Distance Protection Near Unconventional Sources: Analytical Evaluation Complemented with EMT Simulation

Traditional power system network predominantly consists of synchronous generators. The conventional protection system is based on the assumption that the sources have adequate inertia. However, with the advent of inverter based sources the fault current contribution by these sources are not strong enough compared to that of synchronous generators. Hence, traditional protection strategies may not work as expected. This paper focuses on analysing the impact of such sources on the distance relay operation using electro magnetic transient (EMT) simulation. The distance relay performance on an IEEE 9 bus system integrated with inverter based resource (IBR) is investigated. The research outcome will assist both grid operators and relay manufacturers while setting distance relays for transmission line protection.