Challenges in Protecting Micro-Grids with Inverter-Based Resources: A Focus on Line Differential Protection and Wind Turbine Type-4

Inverter-based resources (IBRs), such as wind turbines, are increasingly integrated into power grids, presenting challenges for the power system due to their intermittent nature and rapid power fluctuations. This paper assesses the impact of IBRs on power system protection. Specifically, the performance of line differential protection under various scenarios, including load switching, section cutoff, and external faults, is analyzed. This study uses the IEEE 34 bus test system to conduct simulations and examine different protection principles such as percentage and alpha-plane differential characteristics. The results emphasize the need for advanced and adaptable protection mechanisms to ensure grid reliability and efficiency in the face of the challenges posed by fault resistance, unsynchronized phasor measurement units, and IBRs.