A New Coupling Solution for G3-PLC Employment in MV Smart Grids

This paper proposes a new coupling solution for transmitting narrowband multicarrier power line communication (PLC) signals over medium voltage (MV) power lines. The proposed system is based on an innovative PLC coupling principle, patented by the authors, which exploits the capacitive divider embedded in voltage detecting systems (VDS) already installed inside the MV switchboard. Thus, no dedicated couplers have to be installed and no switchboard modifications or energy interruptions are needed. This allows a significant cost reduction of MV PLC implementation. A first prototype of the proposed coupling system was presented in previous papers: it had a 15 kHz bandwidth useful to couple sin…

Series arc faults in AC and DC electrical circuits. Characterization and detection methods

This paper analyzes the problem of the arc faults in both AC and DC low voltage electrical circuits. The state-of-the-art of the arc fault detection methods is analyzed together with the UL 1699 and UL 1699B Standard requirements for protection devices against arc faults (AFCIs). An experimental characterization is carried out of the arc fault phenomenon, for both AC and DC systems, focusing the attention on series arcs. The experimental measurements are carried out on a proper test bench, which has been developed in order to reproduce significant arcing conditions, in accordance with the UL 1699 Standard requirements.

Real-Time Power Flow Monitoring and Control System for Microgrids Integration in Islanded Scenarios

This article presents an enhanced system for real-time power flow monitoring and control (PFMC) for microgrids integration in medium-voltage (MV) distribution networks. The developed solution includes both system architecture and the monitoring and control algorithms, and it has low implementation and installation costs. It is based on the use of hardware and software solutions previously proposed by the authors, i.e., a distributed measurement, a control and communication architecture, and a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) software, which have been enhanced and integrated for the considered application. The SCADA implements a load flow (LF) algorithm for real-time power fl…

Medium Voltage Smart Grid: Experimental Analysis of Secondary Substation Narrow Band Power Line Communication

This paper is focused on the possibility of employing narrow band power line communication (PLC) in medium voltage (MV) distribution networks. The topic is investigated by means of both simulations and experimental tests, which were carried out in the distribution network of Ustica Island. In detail, a two-way MV communication was tested between two secondary substations connected by an MV cable power line. Each substation has a by-pass connection at MV bus-bars and an MV/LV oil filled power transformer. In this paper, the MV and the PLC systems under test are described and the experimental tests are presented, which were carried out to evaluate the parameters of the simulation model. The a…

A Line Impedance Calculator Based on a G3 PLC Modem Platform

Power line communication (PLC) is one of the most today used technologies for both automatic meter reading and many other smart grid applications. In this framework, a characterization of the electrical network in the PLC frequency range is needed in terms of impedance measurement and received signal level. This can allow choosing the most suitable and less noisy frequency ranges for PLC transmission. Usually, these characterization measurements are performed with dedicated instrumentation and in the absence of mains voltage. This article wants to propose an alternative solution, which allows these kinds of measurements to be performed using electronic boards currently used as on-field appl…

Smart interface devices for distributed generation in smart grids: The case of islanding

With the increasing presence of distributed generators (DGs), the implementation of a smart sensors and actuators network in distribution grids has become crucial for different monitoring, management and protection functionalities. For DGs monitoring and control, sensors and actuators are usually embedded in so-called interface devices (IDs) or interface protection systems (IPSs). Existing IDs lack in communication interfaces both to the electrical energy Distribution System Operators (DSOs) and to the DGs inverter. In this framework, the authors have developed a new ID solution and a proper communication architecture, which allow implementing new smart functionalities based on the interact…

Arc Fault Detection Method Based on CZT Low-Frequency Harmonic Current Analysis

This paper presents a method for the detection of series arc faults in electrical circuits, which has been developed starting from an experimental characterization of the arc fault phenomenon and an arcing current study in several test conditions. Starting from this, the authors have found that is it possible to suitably detect arc faults by means of a high-resolution low-frequency harmonic analysis of current signal, based on chirp zeta transform, and a proper set of indicators. The proposed method effectiveness is shown by means of experimental tests, which were carried in both arcing and nonarcing conditions and in the presence of different loads, chosen according to the UL 1699 standard…

An Innovative Coupling Solution for Power Line Communication in MV Electrical Networks

One of the main problems in the diffusion of power line communication (PLC) in medium voltage (MV) networks is the need of a dedicated PLC coupler to be installed all over the network. To avoid this problem, the authors have studied, prototyped and patented an innovative PLC coupling solution which uses electrical elements embedded in most of the switchgears already installed in MV networks, i.e. the capacitive dividers of the voltage detecting systems (VDS). The new solution prototype is described in this paper, highlighting the advantages in terms of a significant reduction of both direct costs of equipment and infrastructures and indirect costs of installation and service interruption. T…

Comparison of two different approaches for harmonic distortion sources assessment

The paper focuses the attention on the comparison of two approaches for power quality assessment in the electric grid. Both approaches are suitable for investigating the harmonic pollution source and discovering if the harmonic source comes from the customer or the utility grid. The two approaches have the same purpose but they are deeply different. The first approach is based on the knowledge of the customer and utility equivalent impedance while the second is based on single point measurement at point of common coupling PCC. In this paper, the advantages and drawbacks of the two approaches are investigated also supported by a case study.

A resilient distributed measurement system for smart grid application

Since the production of energy from renewable energy sources is strongly increasing, the migration from the classical electric grid toward the smart grid is becoming a reality. Distribution System Operators, along with the control of the entire network and its stability, need to address the security and the reliability of the communication channels and the data itself. In this paper a solution is proposed to address these issues. It is based on a distributed measurement system that relies on a wireless network as well as a redundant Power Line communication system in order to transfer the electrical measures to a centralized SCADA server. The collected data are used to run a power flow algo…

Characterization of DC series arc faults in PV systems based on current low frequency spectral analysis

Abstract This work presents an experimental study focused on the characterization of series arc faults in direct current (DC) photovoltaic (PV) systems. The aim of the study is to identify some relevant characteristics of arcing current, which can be obtained by means of low frequency spectral analysis of current signal. On field tests have been carried out on a real PV system, in accordance with some tests requirements of UL 1699B Standard for protection devices against PV DC arc faults. Arcing and non-arcing current signals are acquired and compared and the behavior of a set of indicators proposed by authors is analyzed. Different measurement equipment have been used, in order to study th…

Comunicazione power line in reti di media e bassa tensione: modellizazione e verifiche sperimentali

CZT-Based Harmonic Analysis in Smart Grid Using Low-Cost Electronic Measurement Boards

This paper validates the use of a harmonic analysis algorithm on a microcontroller to perform measurements of non-stationary signals in the context of smart grids. The increasing presence of electronic devices such as inverters of distributed generators (DG), power converters of charging stations for electric vehicles, etc. can drain non-stationary currents during their operation. A classical fast Fourier transform (FFT) algorithm may not have sufficient spectral resolution for the evaluation of harmonics and inter-harmonics. Thus, in this paper, the implementation of a chirp-Z transform (CZT) algorithm is suggested, which has a spectral resolution independent from the observation window. T…

PQ and Harmonic Assessment Issues on Low-Cost Smart Metering Platforms: A Case Study

This paper presents a feasibility study on how to implement power quality (PQ) metrics in a low-cost smart metering platform. The study is aimed at verifying the possibility of implementing PQ monitoring in distribution networks without replacing existing smart metering devices or adding new modules for PQ measurements, thus zeroing the installation costs. To this aim, an electronic board, currently used for remote energy metering, was chosen as a case study, specifically the STCOMET platform. Starting from the specifications of this device, the possibility of implementing power quality metrics is investigated in order to verify if compliance with standard requirements for PQ instruments ca…

Sistemi di comunicazione e dispositivi di interfaccia per l'integrazione della generazione distribuita nelle smart grids

L'integrazione della generazione distribuita (GD) nelle reti elettriche di distribuzione a media e bassa tensione  uno degli elementi chiave per il pieno sfruttamento delle fonti energetiche rinnovabili (FER). Ci˜ implica un ripensamento della gestione e del controllo delle reti elettriche , che devono passare da sistemi " passivi ", con flussi di potenza unidirezionali e un numero limitato di funzioni di monitoraggio e automazione, a reti attive e intelligenti (Òsmart gridsÒ). In tali sistemi, i flussi di potenza possono essere bi-direzionali e, se non correttamente gestiti, possono causare situazioni critiche, quali ad es. problemi di stabilitˆ e di controllo della rete o funzionamento i…

Un metodo ibrido per il riconoscimento dell'islanding in reti di media e bassa tensione in presenza di generazione distribuita

An Experimental Characterization of Time of Arrival Accuracy for Time Synchronization of Medium Voltage Smart Grid Solutions

The time synchronization of smart grid devices is a critical feature for the successful application of advanced grid monitoring and control techniques. Synchronization mechanisms based on the accurate estimation of the Time of Arrival (ToA) of network messages - sent over power line cables - are a promising solution to achieve synchronization tasks over distribution lines. In this paper, a chirp-based synchronization technique over the Medium Voltage (MV) grid has been proposed and characterized. Such approach has the benefit of not requiring the installation of a dedicated infrastructure, thanks to the exploitation of power distribution lines for the transmission of time synchronization da…

A New Low Cost Coupling System for Power Line Communication on Medium Voltage Smart Grids

This paper proposes and verifies the performance of an innovative and low cost coupling system for power line communication (PLC) on medium voltage (MV) smart grids. The coupling system makes use of the capacitive divider of the voltage detecting systems (VDSs) to inject and receive the PLC signal. VDS are usually already installed in the MV switchboards of the major electrical manufacturer all over the world according to IEC 61243-5. VDS are used to detect the presence of the mains voltage to guarantee personnel safety. An interface circuit has been developed to be connected between the PLC transceiver and the VDS socket. In this way, the PLC signal can be coupled to the MV network without…

Design and Characterization of a New MV PLC Coupler for Smart Electric Energy Systems

This paper deals with the design, modeling and characterization of a new coupling system for medium voltage (MV) narrow band power line communications (NB-PLC). It exploits the capacitive divider of voltage detecting systems (VDSs) normally used to reveal the mains voltage presence, thus avoiding the use of dedicated MV couplers. The proposed coupling system was patented by the authors. In this paper, the modeling of the VDS capacitive divider is presented, using a proper characterization method. Moreover, the interface card design is described, based on simulation of the whole PLC transmission channel. Laboratory tests are also presented and discussed. More in detail, a frequency response …

Implementation of a Management System for Prosumer Energy Storage Scheduling in Smart Grids

Scheduling of energy storage systems of distributed generation is a key element for optimal renewable energy sources (RES) exploitation in smart grids, demand side response strategies implementation and prosumers interaction with Distribution System Operators (DSOs). In this context, this paper presents the implementation of a management system for energy storage scheduling, which allows taking appropriate account of the storage system behavior in real cases. To properly consider the real system operation, the employed battery model is modified, in order to include also the hysteresis phenomena in state of charge estimation in both charging and discharging operation. The validation of the p…

Caratterizzazione e metodi di riconoscimento degli arc faults per applicazioni in sistemi di bassa tensione

Innovative Solutions for the Integration of Renewable Energies on Tunisian and Sicilian Electrical Grids

The rapid spread of distributed generation from renewable energy sources, combined with their unpredictable behavior, requires the continuous monitoring and control by the Distribution System Operator, in order to guarantee the stability and efficiency of the distribution network. Thus, in this paper a new measurement and communication architecture is proposed, which foresees the use of innovative devices and different technology-oriented solutions, even redundant ones, which allows the transition from passive to active electricity distribution network, with minimal structural changes. The architecture has been developed in the framework of the SInERT project (Italy-Tunisia cross-border coo…

Enhanced islanding detection in smart interface protection systems of distributed generation

The widespread presence of distributed generators (DGs) and storage systems (DSSs) in electricity grids has increased the risk of islanding occurrence. This phenomenon must be suitably managed by Distribution System Operators (DSO), in order to avoid adverse situations, in terms of grid-protection problems, equipment damage, safety hazards, power quality problems and so on. Currently anti-islanding protection functions are handled by interface protection systems (IPSs), which are built in accordance with relevant standards for DGs and DSSs connection to power systems. However, some problems may occur in case of operation within the so-called non detection zone (NDZ). This paper presents an …

Implementation and Experimental Tests of a Management System for MV/LV Distribution Grids

The continuous monitoring of network power flows and the remote control of Distributed Generators and Energy Storage Systems are the essential elements to allow a full exploitation of Renewable Energy Sources and their real integration in distribution networks. Thus in the paper a management system is presented for load flow monitoring in MV/LV distribution network. Moreover, on the basis of calculated power flows, the management system is able to send control commands to DGs and ESSs, to vary their power production or power factor or eventually to disconnect them in order to maintain the network stability. The proposed solution was really implemented in the MV network of Ustica Island, dev…

An interface protection system based on an embedded metrology system platform

Abstract The aim of this work is to present an interface protection system (IPS) for Distributed Generators (DG) and Energy Storage Systems (ESS). The new prototype of IPS guarantees standard protection requirements, in terms of both voltage and frequency measurement accuracies and trip times. Moreover, it has the additional functionalities of implementing a communication link between the Distribution System Operator (DSO) and the DG and ESS Inverter. The new IPS is based on a smart meter platform with an integrated power line communication modem. Moreover, it has also an integrated metrology section. Experimental tests will show how this last feature allows a significant reduction of the m…

A new low cost power line communication solution for smart grid monitoring and management

Modern smart grids require the improvement of measurement and communication infrastructures of distribution networks, at both medium voltage (MV) and low voltage (LV) levels. Distributed sensing and measurement systems are needed to provide all necessary data for grid monitoring, control and management, as well as for the implementation of a number of smart functionalities, such as remote control of distributed generators (DGs), real time analysis of power flows, automatic meter reading (AMR), demand side management (DSM), grid automation and so on [1]-[6]. Acquired network data include typical electrical network quantities and status variables (such as powers, voltages, currents, switches …

ARC FAULT DETECTION EQUIPMENT AND METHOD USING LOW FREQUENCY HARMONIC CURRENT ANALYSIS

An arc fault detection circuit includes a current sensing circuit coupled to a line conductor carrying a current. The current sensing circuit operates to sense current and output data indicative of the sensed current. A processing circuit implements a frequency transform algorithm to transform the output data to frequency data in a low frequency range and with a high spectral resolution where a minimum short time observation window is concerned. The processing circuit identifies an arc fault condition on the line conductor by identifying differences in said frequency data between at least two subsequent observation windows and identifying characteristics which exceed thresholds.

A Smart Sensing Method for Real- Time Monitoring of Low Voltage Series-Arc-Fault

This paper proposes a smart sensing method for real-time monitoring of low voltage series arc fault. It is based on the wavelet coefficient mean-difference algorithm and the four spikes appearing within two fundamental periods criterion with adaptive threshold. The method also uses the hard thresholding wavelet denoising with the universal threshold. An arc fault factor and a load adaptation factor are introduced and combined with a correction factor, so allowing the selection of the adaptive threshold in real-time and the series arc fault detection.

Investigation of PCB-based Inductive Sensors Orientation for Corona Partial Discharge Detection

This paper presents an experimental investigation of two different printed circuit board (PCB) inductive sensors, with meander and non-spiral shapes, to assess their capabilities and best orientation for corona partial discharge (PD) detection. First, simulations with the Ansys HFSS software are performed in order to evaluate the equivalent electrical circuit of the two sensors and their 2d radiation patterns. The meander sensors presented a resonant frequency of 600 MHz, while it was around 1.1 GHz for the non-spiral. The 2d radiation pattern showed that better sensitivity is achieved when the inductive sensor is oriented 90 degrees with respect to the PD source. Experimental tests showed …

Sistema di misura per l’analisi spettrale di segnali non stazionari: implementazione in VHDL per lo sviluppo di un prototipo su FPGA

A Monitoring and Management System for Energy Storage Integration in Smart Grids

The integration of distributed storage systems (DSSs) at users and prosumers level can significantly contribute to energy efficiency and increase profits from renewable energy exploitation, thanks to suitable scheduling of charging and discharging periods. On the other hand, to preserve network stability and secure operation, Distribution Systems Operators (DSOs) are interested in DSSs control and cooperation with the grid. In this framework this work proposes a simple monitoring and management system for DSSs scheduling and its integration in a distributed measurement and control system architecture for smart grids. In the paper the proposed algorithm is tested on a simple case study at ho…

PQ Metrics Implementation on Low Cost Smart Metering Platforms. A Case Study Analysis

The increasing interest on the quality of the energy supplied and generated in distribution networks is raising the need of distributed power quality (PQ) measurements. To allow such capabilities with cost effective metering solutions, this paper wants to investigate the feasibility of using smart meters, already installed for energy billing, also for power quality monitoring. To this aim, an electronic board (based on STCOMET metrology device), already used in many energy meters of different countries, has been selected as case study platform. The manufacturer firmware of this board was essentially aimed at implementing energy meter metrics and power line communications functionalities. In…

Narrowband power line communications for medium voltage smart grids

The aim of the paper is to show how narrowband power line communications (NB-PLCs) can be a valid solution for medium voltage grids. Advantages and drawbacks of this solution are analyzed, starting from some experimental communication results, which were carried out on the medium power system networks of the islands of Ustica and Favignana, in the presence of the net voltage. Furthermore, some communication architectures and hardware prototypes based on NB-PLCs are proposed for different smart grids applications.

Comportamento dei trasformatori MT/BT in sistemi di comunicazione power line. Caratterizzazione e modellizzazione

A set of indicators for arc faults detection based on low frequency harmonic analysis

In this paper a novel set of indicators is presented for arc faults detection in electrical circuits. The indicators are defined starting from an experimental characterization of the arc fault phenomenon and the study of the arcing current in several test conditions, which were chosen in accordance with the UL 1699 Standard requirements. The proposed parameters are measured by means of a high resolution low frequency spectral analysis of the arcing current, which allows to achieve a good spectral resolution even with short observation windows.

A PLC based monitoring and remote control architecture for Distributed Generation and Storage systems in LV smart grids

(Abstract) This paper proposes a new power line communication (PLC) architecture for monitoring and remote control of Distributed Generators (DG) and Energy Storage Systems (ESS) connected to low voltage distribution networks. The final aim is to improve the performance of the PLC link in terms of robustness and efficiency in devices addressing. The proposed solution is based on a concentrator, to be installed in secondary substation, and a new PLC bridge, to be linked both to inverters and interface protection systems of DGs or ESSs. In this way, a communication link is obtained between distribution system operator (DSO) and DG or ESS owners. The proposed system is able to provide advanced…

Development of a Coupling System for Medium Voltage Power Line Communication in the CENELEC A Frequency Band

In this paper the performances of a new power line communication (PLC) coupling system for medium voltage (MV) smart grids are investigated in the CENELEC A frequency band (i.e. 3 - 95 kHz). The new coupling solution is based on the use of the capacitive divider of the voltage detecting system (VDS) as PLC coupler to the MV network. According to IEC 61243-5, VDS are worldwide used to reveal the presence of the mains voltage to ensure the safety of the operators. A proper interface circuit has been invented and patented to couple the PLC signal through the VDS. In this way no dedicated MV PLC coupler is required, thus avoiding the related costs of the coupler, of its installation, and those …

Measurement of Simplified Single- And Three-Phase Parameters for Harmonic Emission Assessment Based on IEEE 1459-2010

This article investigates the feasibility of using a simplified approach, based on the measurement of power ratio parameters, for harmonic emissions assessment at the point of common coupling (PCC). The proposed approach comes from the common concept of power factor correction and the definitions of the IEEE Std. 1459-2010, where line utilization and harmonic pollution levels are evaluated by means of ratios between the power quantities of the apparent power decomposition. In addition to the IEEE Std. 1459–2010 indicators, in this article, the behavior is studied of additional parameters that are conceptually similar to those defined by the IEEE Std. 1459-2010. The suitability of such param…

A new PLC-based smart metering architecture for medium/low voltage grids: Feasibility and experimental characterization

Abstract This paper investigates the feasibility of a smart metering architecture for modern power grids in the smart cities framework. A particular focus is made on Automatic Meter Reading, with the aim of facing some costs and safety drawbacks of current solutions (such as dependence from wireless communication providers, reliability problems in bad weather conditions, and exposition to cyber-attacks). The proposed architecture exploits power line communications (PLC) at both low and medium voltage level, thanks to new devices and an innovative medium voltage PLC coupling system. The new coupling solution and the whole smart metering architecture are experimentally verified in a wide freq…

An Innovative Power Line Communication solution For Medium Voltage Smart Grids Applications

This paper summarizes the authors research activity concerning the design, modeling and experimental characterization of a new coupling system for medium voltage (MV) narrow band power line communications (NB-PLC). The proposed solution has been patented by authors and it exploits the capacitive divider of voltage detecting systems (VDSs) normally used to reveal the mains voltage presence, thus avoiding the use of dedicated MV couplers. In the following, the modeling of the VDS capacitive divider is presented and the interface card design is described, based on simulation of the whole PLC transmission channel. Laboratory tests are also presented. Finally, the results are shown of an on-fiel…

A Virtual Tool for Load Flow Analysis in a Micro-Grid

This paper proposes a virtual tool for load flow analysis in energy distribution systems of micro-grids. The solution is based on a low-cost measurement architecture, which entails low-voltage power measurements in each secondary substation and a voltage measurement at the beginning of the medium voltage (MV) feeder. The proposed virtual tool periodically queries these instruments to acquire the measurements. Then, it implements a backward&ndash

Incremental heuristic approach for meter placement in radial distribution systems

The evolution of modern power distribution systems into smart grids requires the development of dedicated state estimation (SE) algorithms for real-time identification of the overall system state variables. This paper proposes a strategy to evaluate the minimum number and best position of power injection meters in radial distribution systems for SE purposes. Measurement points are identified with the aim of reducing uncertainty in branch power flow estimations. An incremental heuristic meter placement (IHMP) approach is proposed to select the locations and total number of power measurements. The meter placement procedure was implemented for a backward/forward load flow algorithm proposed by…

Measurement Uncertainty of Harmonic Emission Indicators based on IEEE Std. 1459-2010

The study presented in this paper is aimed at analyzing the measurement uncertainty impact on the evaluation of some power ratio parameters for harmonic emissions assessment based on IEEE Std. 1459-2010 apparent power decomposition. In addition to power factors for line utilization and harmonic pollution levels evaluation defined in the Standard, the study covers also some new parameters, which have been introduced by the authors as IEEE Std. 1459-2010 power quantities ratios. The measurement of the aforesaid parameters is implemented on a PC-based wattmeter, in order to investigate the measurement uncertainty impact on the evaluation of the power ratios. The obtained results show that, in …

Experimental characterization of series arc faults in AC and DC electrical circuits

This paper presents an experimental characterization of the arc fault phenomenon, for both AC and DC systems, focusing the attention on series arcs. The aim of the study is to find some current characteristics, which can be significant for the purpose of arc detection. The arcing current signal is analyzed in both time and frequency domain. For the AC analysis, the test conditions are chosen in accordance with the “unwanted tripping tests” and the “operation inhibition tests” reported in the Standard UL 1699. The DC study is carried out on the currents waveforms acquired during some on-field tests on a PV plant. Starting from the study herein presented, the authors have found that is it pos…

Design of a Time Dissemination System Using Chirp Modulation for Medium Voltage Smart Grid Applications

The monitoring and the management of smart grid require an advanced communication infrastructure. The time synchronization is among the most important services such an infrastructure should offer. Several solutions are available to disseminate the time information in a distributed system; for instance, most of the times a global positioning system (GPS) receiver is used to recover accurate time information. However, GPS receivers need a clear view of the sky. Other solutions, like the use of a network-based synchronization mechanism, require a dedicated communication infrastructure, which is not always feasible for economical reason. Thus, the use of the power grid itself to disseminate a t…

Sviluppo di dispositivi elettronici di misura innovativi per la gestione delle Smart Grid attraverso un'opportuna infrastruttura di comunicazione

Implementation of a PLC Field Analyzer on a G3 Modem Platform

Nowadays, power line communications (PLC) are a widely used technology in distribution grids, both for automatic meter reading and automation applications. PLC performances (in terms of capacity, coverage, robustness, and data transmission rate) can be significantly affected by electrical network topologies, connected loads and disturbances. Thus, utilities and modem manufacturers are increasing their interest in electrical network characterization. In this framework, a software tool is proposed in this paper to measure received signal and noise levels. As case study, it is implemented on a G3 PLC transceiver, widely used for smart metering purposes. In this way, a PLC channel characterizat…

Secondary substation power line communications for medium voltage smart grids

In this paper a performance analysis is carried out, in order to evaluate the possibility to employ power line communication (PLC) between secondary substations of a medium voltage (MV) distribution networks in a smart grid. The study is focused on the analysis of PLC technologies and the evaluation of the influence quantities on the communication performance in the most common case of by-pass connection at MV bus-bars of secondary substations. Different quantities have been analyzed as modulation techniques, requested bandwidth and bitrate, coupling device and system attenuation versus frequency in order to find the best solution for a reliable communication system. A complete model of a r…

Measurement and communication interfaces for distributed generation in smart grids

The aim of this work is to perform a feasibility study on the measurement and communication strategies for the development of a new generation of interface devices for distributed generators and their integration on smart grids. The communication system can use one or more technologies, at the various levels, creating a low cost network infrastructure, in the framework of a SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) architecture. As regards the measurements, the attention is focused on the anti-islanding protection, based on a hybrid solution, which makes use of local measurements and communications with the grid, at both MV and LV level by employing the PLC technology. Some simulatio…