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The deepening penetration of distributed energy resources into distribution networks (DNs) is causing relevant issues to be addressed by distribution system operators (DSOs), such as quality of service, security and safety, both at medium-voltage and low-voltage distribution levels. This paper presents how Unareti SpA, an Italian DSO, has addressed those challenges launching a set of research activities in different areas of distribution automation. Results collected during field experiences have been used to design the reference model of the next generation of DN secondary substations. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Electricity distribution networks are a critical infrastructure of the modern society. The continuity of the electricity distribution service is therefore a key topic. Network automation is aimed at improving service continuity. Among the several possible automation schemes, logic selectivity of protection relays is one of the most effective approach because it allows minimizing the extent of the area affected by the fault with a short clearing time. IEC 61850 provides a standard way to implement automation. This paper describes a laboratory setup where the logic selectivity—based on the IEC 61850 standard—was tested before moving protection relays to a real operating environment for field demonstration. An analysis of system configuration and performance is reported when phase-to-ground and phase-to-phase faults were tested. Failure of the communication infrastructure enabling the coordination among relays and a failure of the breaker were also simulated to determine how the system was fault tolerant. The results show that the logic implemented is fast enough to send the trip command to the breaker in less than 170 ms in the case of phase-to-ground fault and in less than 130 ms in the case of phase-to-phase fault, even considering the time needed for the coordination of relays. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]