Busbar Protection Based on Multi-Relay Coordination with IEC 61850 GOOSE Message Communication

A multi-relay coordination-based busbar protection system with IEC 61850 GOOSE message communication is proposed to improve the reliability and speed of fault isolation at high-voltage substations. This study addresses a critical gap in the PT PLN (Persero) system, where 32% of substations lack busbar protection. The method utilizes existing relays (distance relay for bay source, directional OCR (DOCR) for transformer/couple) integrated via Ethernet network, with fault direction signal exchange (reverse/forward) via GOOSE message. The coordination logic is designed for selective detection, in which internal faults only trigger the source/couple bays (operating time ≤161 ms), while external faults generate blocking signals. Validation using a real-time digital simulator and commissioning confirmed the system's superior performance. The system achieves 100% selectivity, immunity to CT saturation, and isolation times 60% faster than remote protection (>400 ms). A thorough economic analysis revealed substantial efficiencies, including a notable reduction in outage losses (from IDR 929 million to IDR 30 million per event) and a substantial 89% reduction in investment costs (IDR 2.92 billion) when compared with conventional differential protection methods. The implementation of this system is technically and economically feasible for critical fault mitigation and system reliability improvement.