Impact of protection coordination on transient stability of a grid-connected offshore wind farm

This paper presents an integrated assessment of load flow, short-circuit behavior, protection coordination and transient stability of a grid-connected offshore wind farm under Indian grid conditions. The system consists of Type-IV wind turbine generators connected through a medium-voltage collector network and a high-voltage export system. The study addresses key challenges associated with offshore wind integration, including limited fault current contribution that influences protection coordination and system stability. Simulation results demonstrate satisfactory steady-state performance, with bus voltages maintained within ±4% of nominal values and coordinated relay operation achieved within acceptable level. Transient stability analysis under both symmetrical and asymmetrical fault conditions confirms that all disturbances are cleared within critical stability limits, which vary between 280 ms and 360 ms depending on fault location. The results highlight that appropriately coordinated protection schemes play a crucial role in enhancing transient performance and improving the overall reliability of offshore wind farm grid integration.