An Analytical Zero Sequence Method to Locate Fault in Distribution Systems Rich in DG

Locating high impedance faults (HIF) in a distribution system increases the system’s reliability and improves the service’s quality for customers. However, this type of fault produces currents of low magnitude, making it difficult to locate using conventional techniques. Therefore, this paper proposes a method for the location of single-phase high impedance faults in distribution systems with photovoltaic cells in low voltage. The method is based on the use of the sequence component of the current circulating in the medium voltage feeders of the distribution system, which are obtained from synchronized phasorial meters positioned along the feeder. The method considers nonsymmetrical lines, unbalanced loads, capacitors banks, photovoltaic DGs, and load variation. The performance of the proposed method was evaluated and tested on several distribution systems using ATP or PSCAD® and the results show that the method can locate HIFs with high precision. Also, a comparison was made with recently published methods to show the efficiency of the proposed method.