Integrating discrete wavelet transform with neural networks and machine learning for fault detection in microgrids

Microgrids are essential for integrating renewable energy sources into the power grid. However, fault detection is challenging due to bidirectional energy flow. Traditional relay-based systems struggle in microgrids, primarily because of limited fault currents from grid-connected renewable energy inverters. To address these challenges, this paper proposes a new methodology for fault detection and classification in a renewable microgrid. The main contributions encompass two key aspects. Firstly, it enhances fault detection performance in microgrids characterized by nonlinear relationships, including photovoltaic, hydrokinetic, and variable electric load systems. Secondly, the combination of the discrete wavelet transform with various types of neural networks and supervised learning techniques provides a robust methodology for fault detection and classification. The proposed approach is evaluated using an IEEE-5 feeder test bed representing a realistic ring network configuration. The results show that the radial basis function neural network model exhibited promising outcomes, yielding a low prediction error of 1.31 e-31, highlighting its practical potential for enhancing system reliability and performance. Furthermore, various test cases were conducted by altering the ground resistance to train the neural networks, demonstrating the effectiveness of this neural network in accurately identifying fault conditions. Additionally, this research achieved promising outcomes with other models, including support vector machine and nonlinear autoregressive with external input, emphasizing the adaptability of these models in fault detection.