Integrating Machine Learning and Feature Extraction for Islanding Detection in Grid-connected Photovoltaic Systems: A Hybrid Intelligent Approach

Introduction: In recent years, the integration of renewable energy sources, particularly Photovoltaic (PV) systems, into the grid has garnered considerable attention. However, the distributed nature of these grid-integrated PV systems has introduced challenges concerning grid faults and maintenance. Methods: This paper aims to present a pioneering approach to augment the monitoring of gridintegrated PV systems by integrating intelligent methods, specifically machine learning and feature extraction techniques. The primary focus of this approach is on islanding detection, which involves promptly identifying grid faults or maintenance challenges and initiating the grid's transition to an isolated mode of operation. To accomplish this, an intelligent signaling method is employed, capitalizing on the capabilities of Distributed Generation (DG) networks. By recording critical signals such as voltage, current, and frequency at common coupling points, fault conditions can be accurately detected. Signals obtained from the grid are subjected to wavelet transformation to extract pertinent information that characterizes fault conditions. These extracted features are then utilized as inputs to machine learning methods, facilitating the proposal of intelligent islanding scenarios. To assess the efficacy of the proposed approach, simulations are conducted on a grid-connected PV system. The recorded signals are meticulously analyzed, and the extracted features are employed to train machine learning models. The performance of these models is evaluated based on their ability to detect fault conditions and initiate appropriate islanding scenarios accurately. Results: The results obtained demonstrate the immense potential of the proposed approach in bolstering the monitoring of grid-integrated PV systems. Conclusion: By synergizing machine learning techniques with feature extraction and intelligent signaling methods with the KNN-Confusion Matrix, all predicted labels match the true labels, resulting in a 100% accuracy. The detection of grid faults and maintenance challenges can be substantially improved, thereby fostering more efficient and dependable operation of these systems.