A critical assessment of islanding detection methods of solar photovoltaic systems

Abstract

This study identifies inadvertent islanding in electrical networks incorporating Distributed Generators (DGs). With the global rise of DG deployment, it becomes imperative to scrutinize their influence on the network and guarantee that anti-islanding protective systems can accurately discern such conditions. However, it is equally important to prevent false alarms that might result in unwarranted DG disconnections during unrelated incidents. Fulfilling these stringent technical prerequisites is a fundamental aspect of ensuring the safe and dependable functioning of the electrical grid. Consequently, this investigation aims to comprehensively explore the scholarly discourse surrounding islanding detection methodologies for distributed generators. The manuscript assesses various methods for detecting islanding phenomena, spanning passive, active, and remote techniques. These include under/over voltage, Sandia frequency/voltage shift, Sandia frequency shift, and under/over frequency protection mechanisms. It offers an exhaustive review of diverse techniques to identify islanding in distributed generation networks, studying their respective merits, demerits, and overall efficacy in pinpointing this condition. Thus, this research holds paramount importance in bolstering the dependability of electrical networks incorporating DGs. It aids in advancing anti-islanding protection systems that satisfy crucial technical specifications.