With the growing use of Distributed Renewable Resources Generators (DRRG) such as solar photovoltaic (PV) systems worldwide there is increased need for interface protection units utilizing robust methods to ensure accurate islanding detection with no nuisance tripping for systems connected to the distribution network. The Seeker for this Challenge, Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA), is looking for innovative solutions for Loss of Mains (LoM) detection that overcome the known limitations of current technologies in order to provide increased protection for personnel and equipment.
Loss of Mains (LoM) protections help to maintain reliable and safe operation of electricity distribution networks and electricity generators attached to these networks by rapidly detecting the loss of electricity supply on the main network to allow for appropriate operating measures to be taken to prevent power islanding and other detrimental effects. Power islanding can occur when a distribution area with a Distributed Renewable Resources Generator (DRRG) attached operates in isolation after the main utility electricity supply is lost. This condition may persist for some time if the power generation is closely matched to the power load for the isolated distribution area and this creates hazards for both personnel and equipment in the affected area. Current methods to detect islanding and provide interface protection are primarily passive in nature such as Rate of Change of Frequency (RoCoF) and Vector Shift (VS) and are prone to nuisance tripping and may not reliably trip under all LoM circumstances. This may not be a problem on grids with lower installed distributed energy generation capacity but can cause problems as such capacity increases. DEWA, the Seeker for this Challenge, is looking for innovative solutions for interface protection for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems connected to the electricity grid. Solutions may employ passive or active sensing and must include communications to enable remote control tripping.
The submission to the Challenge should include the following:
- The detailed description of the proposed Solution addressing specific Technical Requirements presented in the Detailed Description of the Challenge. This description should be accompanied by a well-articulated rationale supported by literature/patent precedents.
- Experimental proof-of-concept data obtained as outlined in the Detailed Description of the Challenge (and/or delivery of a prototype if requested by the Seeker).
Awards:- $35,000
Deadline:- 26-02-2022
