Hybrid Prims-Viterbi's Algorithm for Protecting Multiple Utility Grids Interfaced Microgrid

Abstract

With globalisation occupying the space, there has been a subsequent growth in the demand for power supply, which can be met by bringing microgrid into the scenario. Microgrid paves the way to integrate various other energy sources (along with the conventional source of energy) like Renewable Energy Systems (RES) and Distribution Grids (DG). The microgrid can be reconfigured by RES, load or utility grid connection or disconnection. The RES enables the bi-directional flow of power. Hence, it will be challenging for the protection engineers to clear the fault, if any, through conventional energy protection techniques. This paper proposes hybrid PrimsViterbi’s algorithm, which helps in identifying the shortest path from a faulted point to the point of common coupling point. This algorithm may attain a minimum portion of network disconnection during the clearance of fault. The proposed algorithm is tested and validated on a real-time 16-bus microgrid network with multiple utility grids.