A Test Device for Optimize PMU-based Islanding Detection Technology

Islanding detection is a necessary function for grid connected distributed generators. Usually, islanding detection methods can be classified as two catalogues: remote detecting methods and local detecting methods. Most of them have limitation and defects when they are applied in photovoltaic power stations. Recently synchronous phasor measuring units (PMU) is proposed to be applied for islanding detecting. Although the islanding detection method is supposed to be applied for traditional bulk power systems, it is also suitable for renewable generation power plants. To do this islanding detection will be implemented on central management unit of photovoltaic power station instead of on grid-tied inverters as traditionally. In implementing, the criteria of this method and the threshold of algorithm are needed to be optimized. This paper develops a test device which can optimize PMU-based islanding detection technology to validate the proposed islanding detection method applying in PV station. Then using simulation to discuss how to set a reasonable threshold for the researched islanding detection method applied in PV stations. Finally the paper provides a platform for the algorithm optimization.