Hybrid Harmony Search Algorithm Applied to the Optimal Coordination of Overcurrent Relays in Distribution Networks with Distributed Generation

In recent years, distributed generation (DG) has become more common in modern distribution networks (DNs). The presence of these small-scale units within a DN brings new challenges to protection engineers, since short-circuit currents tend increase; additionally, as with microgrids, DNs may feature several operational modes depending on their topology and the availability DG. This paper presents methodology for optimal coordination overcurrent relays (OCRs) high Given fact that is non-linear non-convex optimization problem, hybrid harmony search simulated annealing (HS-SA) approach was implemented its solution compared against other techniques, such conventional HS, genetic algorithm (GA), particle swarm (PSO) PSO-HS. Several tests were performed DN, considering different operative scenarios function DG available network. A comparison works reported specialized literature carried out, evidencing applicability effectiveness HS-SA technique solving OCR problem DNs.