An Adaptive Load Shedding Method for Blackout Prevention in Active Distribution Network

Abstract

This work proposes and presents an in-depth analysis of a new adaptive load shedding method for intentional islanding for
distribution networks. The proposed method is tuned in real time to the estimated magnitude of the disturbance and it enables
the enhancement of both the frequency and the voltage stability. The magnitude of the disturbance is determined using the
swing equation which offers a more efficient system operation during contingency conditions with minimal customer
interruptions. Furthermore, for a fast and optimal reaction, the proposed method utilises the system topology and distributed
generation, as well as the load demand and the actual operating conditions. Finally, this paper examines and assesses the
behaviour of a 33 kV distribution network which is modelled using the electromagnetic transient simulation software PSCAD.
The model consists of various types and sizes of loads and distributed generators (DG). The responses of the proposed load
shedding technique are reviewed and discussed for single and multi-stage scenarios for different time-delays and frequency.