Technical Evaluation of a Superconducting Fault Current Limiter for a Microgrid with Wind-PV Hybrid Generation

The integration of fault current limiters (FCLs) with microgrids has received significant because of their capacity to improve the reliability and stability of microgrid systems. The main focus of the research is to improve the protection of the microgrid by reducing the fault current and minimizing the impact of fault events. This study presents an investigation into the performance enhancement of superconducting fault current limiter (SFCL) within a microgrid context. The research delves into the effects of various fault types, making angles, and fault locations on the SFCL's functionality. The study will reveal SFCL's consistent and effective current limiting capabilities across these diverse fault scenarios. Understanding this effect crucial for optimizing SFCL performance. Regarding the effect of fault locations, the study investigated fault occurrences near loads, the grid, and renewable energy sources within a Microgrid system. The results consistently showcased SFCL's ability to limit fault currents irrespective of fault locations, ensuring system stability and reliability. The collective insights gained from this study contribute significantly to the understanding of SFCL's role in enhancing power system performance and resilience. The significance of utilizing hybrid sources of wind, solar, and conventional energy, and their impact on specific fault current performance, or whether a fault current limiter has been successfully able to handle them, along with provided values or percentages demonstrating its proven effectiveness, holds utmost importance. The findings provide valuable guidance for power system engineers, aiding in the strategic allocation and deployment of SFCLs for improved power network management. This paper advances the knowledge surrounding SFCLs' applicability and effectiveness within Microgrid environments, paving the way for more secure and efficient energy systems.