Fault current injection from Inverter Based Generation in the distribution grid : A case study of distribution grid on the Swedish island of Gotland

Abstract: This work proposes recommendations for new guidelines for fault current injection on a distribution grid. These guidelines will help improve the transition towards renewable electrical energy generation. The grid-integration of inverter-based distributed generations (IBDGs) into the distribution grid changes the topology of a conventional grid with one-way power flow to a grid with multi-way power flow. This thesis investigates the impact of fault current injection on a distribution grid, if the limitations in the fault current injection of IBDGs affect the reliable function of the protection system and if there is a preferable type of current control to be prioritised. This investigation was carried out through a literature review and transient state simulations on a model grid in PSCAD. The grid is based on a real radial distribution grid on the Swedish island of Gotland, where a Type III wind turbine generator (WTG) is connected. The limitation on fault current injection by the wind turbine, the location and type of fault in the grid, can affect the reliable function of the protection system. The control system inside a type III WTG affects its fault current injection that impacts fault detection by the protection system. This thesis emphasizes the need for a guideline and requirement on the WTG control system for fault current injection. Prioritising reactive current control (q-axis) seems to be preferable and should become the standard for fault current injection in type III wind turbine generators in this distribution grid, according to this study. Furthermore, the need for more investigation for different types of IBDGs with different control strategies is highlighted in this work.