Impact Analysis of High PV Penetration on Protection of Distribution Systems Using Real-Time Simulation and Testing – A Utility Case Study

As the adoption of PV systems grows, the conventional protection and automation practices in distribution grids are challenged. This study aims at identifying and resolving these issues for typical San Diego Gas & Electric® (SDG&E) distribution systems, using a Hardware In-the-Loop testing platform. Several SDG&E distribution circuits were modeled in a Real-Time Digital Simulator, and the model was interfaced with power and control equipment. A comprehensive set of tests was executed, and the results were analyzed in an automated manner to identify protection challenges and to provide potential solutions in a highly PV-penetrated environment.