Optimal Positioning of PMUs for Fault Detection and Localization in Active Distribution Networks

This paper considers the problem of fault detection and localization in active distribution networks using Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs). The proposed algorithm consists in computing a set of weighted least squares state estimates whose results are used to detect, characterize and localize the occurrence of a fault. Moreover, a criteria to minimize the number of PMUs required to correctly perform the proposed algorithm is defined. Such a criteria, based on system observability conditions, allows the design of an optimization problem to set the positions of PMUs along the grid, in order to get the desired fault localization resolution. The performances of the strategy are tested via simulations on a benchmark distribution system.

Automated summary

This paper investigates fault detection and localization in active distribution networks using PMUs. The proposed algorithm computes weighted least squares state estimates to detect, characterize, and localize faults, with a criteria to minimize the number of PMUs required. By defining an optimization problem based on system observability conditions, the positions of PMUs are set to achieve desired fault localization resolution. Performance of the strategy is tested through simulations on a benchmark distribution system.