Evolution of Islanding Detection Methods for Microgrid Systems

A microgrid is a representation of controllable electrical power network, which comprises the distributed generation (DG) such as micro-hydro, wind turbines, photovoltaic arrays, bio-mass generation, battery energy storage systems (BESSs), and a group of interconnected load. A typical microgrid can be operated in either grid connected or island mode. The issue of unintentional islanding in microgrid is a major challenge for power engineers as it may harm the service personnel working during maintenance or restoration of the main grid. In literature, various passive, active, and hybrid islanding detection methods (IDMs) have been developed and implemented by researchers/engineers. In this chapter, the proposed IDMs from the recent literature have been analyzed and briefly discussed. The primary requirement of IDMs is fast and accurate detection of main grid failure and should not deteriorate the power quality of distribution networks.