An interval type-2 fuzzy logic based strategy for microgrid protection

The concept of microgrids has been introduced to facilitate the integration of the distributed energy resources (DERs) into distribution networks in a more economical, reliable and environment-friendly manner. One of the critical challenges associated with microgrids is devising an appropriate protection strategy. This is because the fault current level continuously varies owing to the existence of DERs and to the fact that the microgrid can operate in grid-tied and islanded modes. This paper proposes a new protection strategy for microgrids using an interval type-2 fuzzy logic system. The proposed strategy considers various uncertainties associated with faults and employs two different fuzzy systems to detect, classify, and locate the faults in microgrids. The phase angle between superimposed modal voltage and modal current is used as an input to the fuzzy system designed to identify the fault direction. The significant feature of the proposed strategy is that it can protect the microgrid after a single-phase tripping event. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed strategy, we have performed extensive simulations using MATLAB/SIMULINK. The simulation results show that the proposed strategy can detect, classify, and isolate various faults in the microgrid. Moreover, the strategy also provides backup protection in case of failure of the primary protection.