Optimizing travelling wave protection scheme for inverter- based resources; cases study of Nkonge solar plant.

Abstract

The integration of Inverter-Based Resources (IBRs), such as photovoltaic systems, into modern power grids presents unique challenges for traditional protection schemes due to the limited and controlled fault current contributions of IBRs. This project focused on optimizing a traveling wave protection scheme for the Nkonge Solar Plant, aiming to address the inadequacies of conventional phasor-based protection methods in IBR-dominated environments. The study involved a comprehensive analysis of existing protection schemes, identification of site-specific protection challenges, and the design and simulation-based validation of a tailored traveling wave protection solution. Results demonstrated that traveling wave protection significantly enhances fault detection speed and reliability, remaining effective regardless of variations in system fault levels and converter control strategies. The successful validation of this scheme underscores its potential to improve system reliability and resilience, supporting Uganda’s transition to a renewable energy future and contributing to the realization of national energy goals.