Innovative Distribution Networks Planning Integrating Superconducting Fault Current Limiters

Nowadays, the trend is to connect more and more distributed generation (called DGs) to the distribution network and in particular renewable ones. In order to increase the maximum amount of DGs connected to the distribution network, meshing of the distribution network is suggested with the aim to better balance power flows. However, this architecture implies high short circuit currents. Consequently, it requires the revision of the protection scheme and of the network elements design (for example, transformers). Therefore, superconducting fault current limiters (SCFCLs) could be a very interesting solution to solve this problem in the distribution networks. This study suggests to loop (i.e., meshing) the existing distribution topology in order to increase the penetration of DGs using SCFCLs. SCFCLs could help to switch from meshed to radial architecture in case of fault. This radial architecture allows the decrease of the fault current. Because this radial architecture would be similar to the current one, there would be no need to change either the protection system or the grid elements. It is what this article checks.