Application of lightning detection in Smart Grid dynamic protection

Abstract

For the purpose of improving reliability and robustness of a Smart Grid, a Dynamic Lightning Protection mode was developed. While the conventional mode focuses on the protection for each grid component individually, this dynamic mode focuses on protecting the whole electric grid in its entirety. Based on real time lightning detection, the dynamic protection system carries out flexible protection actions in advance. Furthermore, the mode results in minimizing the impacts of lightning-caused trips, disturbances and interruptions, which reduces the risk of a grid-scale blackout and facilitates the self-healing during the lightning storms. The dynamic protection mode, as discussed in the paper, provides more available applications of lightning detection and interactive Smart Grid lightning protection.