Optimizing Selective Overcurrent Protection in the IEEE 13-Node Feeder with Solar PV Using Micro Genetic Algorithm
Abstract
This study presents source-aware adaptive coordination of overcurrent protection for active distribution networks with distributed generation. The novelty of this study lies in the integration of source-relative time grading with IEC 60255-151 curve evaluation and the optimization of settings via a small-population micro-genetic algorithm that is evaluation-efficient, yet resistant to stagnation. The test system was an IEEE 13-node feeder hosting several photovoltaic units and a main grid, resulting in bidirectional fault currents. The objective is to ensure selectivity across on-grid (grid-connected) modes by enforcing a coordination time interval (CTI) of ≥ 0.40 s while minimizing the total operating time of the primary relays. These methods include MATLAB/Simulink modelling for low- and high-fault scenarios, and the operating times are computed using the IEC 60255-151 Inverse Curve. The Time Multiplier Settings (TMS) were tuned with a micro-GA (population = 20, iterations = 20, crossover probability = 0.8, mutation probability = 0.08), with elitism and a restart mechanism upon loss of diversity. The results show that across eight scenarios (A-H), all primary-backup pairs satisfy selectivity with a CTI not less than 0.40 s; near-threshold cases gain a 5 ms buffer without violating device limits. The tightest sensitivity margin occurred in Scenario F and the narrowest TMS headroom occurred in Scenario G, both of which were recommended as priority monitoring points. In conclusion, a coordination principle defined relative to the source in-feed, combined with auditable IEC curve formulations and low-cost optimization, yields selective, sensitive, and efficient designs. The principle generalizes to multisource active networks, given an M-ratio > 1, compliance with the TMS bounds, and current estimates aligned with the operating topology. Future work will include Monte Carlo robustness tests and co-optimization of TMS and pickup with relay-specific IEC curve selection, followed by HIL validation.
Keywords: Adaptive overcurrent protection; active distribution networks; distributed generation; micro-genetic algorithm (µGA); IEC 60255-151; coordination time interval (CTI).
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