Assessment of Transmission-level Fault Impacts on 3-phase and 1-phase Distribution IBR Operation

Abstract: The widespread deployment of inverter-based resources (IBRs) renders distribution systems susceptible to transmission-level faults. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the impact of transmission-level faults on 3-phase and 1-phase distribution IBR operation. To evaluate distributed IBR tripping across various phases and locations on a distribution feeder, we conduct simulations of both symmetrical and unsymmetrical transmission faults at progressively greater electrical distances on a real-time transmission and distribution (T&D) co-simulation platform. The IBR power-to-load ratios (PLRs) at 50%, 100%, and 300% are considered to emulate low, medium, and high IBR conditions. Our results indicate that, while 1-phase and 2-phase faults typically trigger fewer IBR trips when compared to 3-phase faults, a significant power imbalance arises from the tripping of 1-phase IBRs on the affected phases. The imbalance can result in significant power quality problems and unintended equipment tripping. It may be necessary to design fault-ride-through mechanisms specifically tailored to 1-phase IBRs to help mitigate the power imbalances caused by unbalanced faults.