A Survey of Islanding Detection Methods for Microgrids and Assessment of Non-Detection Zones in Comparison with Grid Codes

Detection of unintentional islanding is critical in microgrids in order to guarantee personal safety and avoid equipment damage. Most islanding detection techniques are based on monitoring and detecting abnormalities in magnitudes such as frequency, voltage, current and power. However, in normal operation, the utility grid has fluctuations in voltage and frequency, and grid codes establish that local generators must remain connected if deviations from the nominal values do not exceed the defined thresholds and ramps. This means that islanding detection methods could not detect islanding if there are fluctuations that do not exceed the grid code requirements, known as the non-detection zone (NDZ). A survey on the benefits of islanding detection techniques is provided, showing the advantages and disadvantages of each one. NDZs size of the most common passive islanding detection methods are calculated and obtained by simulation and compared with the limits obtained by ENTSO-E and islanding standards in the function of grid codes requirements in order to compare the effectiveness of different techniques and the suitability of each one.

Automated summary

Detecting unintentional islanding is crucial for ensuring personal safety and preventing equipment damage in microgrids. Most islanding detection techniques rely on monitoring deviations in frequency, voltage, current, and power. However, fluctuations within permissible limits defined by grid codes can render these methods ineffective, creating a non-detection zone (NDZ). This study surveys the benefits of different islanding detection techniques, calculating the NDZ sizes for common passive methods and comparing them with industry standards.