MAKERERE UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, DESIGN, ART & TECHNOLOGY

SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING

DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL & COMPUTER ENGINEERING

FAULT ANALYSIS WHEN A MINI GRID IS

CONNECTED TO THE MAIN GRID

CASE STUDY; WENRECo

Submitted by:

Isaac Baamu

15/U/19973/PS

Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
Approval

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ii
Declaration

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iv
Dedication
First and foremost, I dedicate this report to my parents who sought it wise to put before
me all the financial support needed and taught me that the best kind of knowledge to
have in life is that which is learned for its own sake and that even the largest task can be
accomplished if it is done one step at a time.
Secondly, I dedicate it to my brothers and sisters and all individuals who have played
an important role in my academics for the words of encouragement which have kept me
going up to this point in time and the only word i have to say is “thank you”.

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Acknowledgment
In accomplishment of this report, I am indebted to a lot of people. Since these people
are many I feel sorry that I cannot mention all of them by names in a single page. I wish
therefore, to thank Makerere University for permission to attend my B.Sc. studies. Sin-
cere gratitude should go to my supervisors Dr. Jonathan Serugunda, Mr Enock Mwebesa
and Mr. Patrick Mugwanya for their invaluable criticisms, comments and contributions
without which this thesis would not have been a success.

I am indebted to all members of staff of department of electrical and computer engi-

neering of CEDAT. Just to mention a few, sincere gratitude should go to Mr Kenneth
Kahuma, Dr Geofrey Bakkabulindi, Mrs Josephine Lutalo, Mr Maximus Byamukama for
their academic knowledge and guidance towards my final year project.

My sincere thanks and appreciation also go to my parents for the tuition, assistance,
counselling, etc., my fellow colleagues, friends for their prayers, support, help and encour-
agement during the entire course of this project.

Lastly, I thank my project partner Gloria Kisakye for her cooperation, time and ev-
erything towards this project.

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Abstract
Increased exploitation of renewable energies for electricity generation has resulted into
increase in the number of the mini grids operated either in island mode or grid connected
mode. Increased generation capacity along with entrance of mini grids to the main grid
causes increase in short circuit current magnitude in distribution and transmission grid
substations. This project involved modelling West Nile Rural Electrification Company
(WENRECO) and section of the main grid that will supply the power to that network
and then connected them together.
A three phase short circuit simulation and then fault analysis was made considering fault
currents and fault MVA which showed an inrease in fault magnitudes. A study was also
made on the operation and coordination of the network circuit breakers and relays. Dig
Silent power factory was used in the simulation and analysis of the networks mentioned
above. We propose use of SCADA for WENRECo and installation of series reactors on
the line joining WENRECo to the main grid to reduce of the fault current magnitudes
during fault conditions.

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Acronyms
AFB Arua Feeder Breaker.

AL Average Load.

ARCB Arua Circuit Breaker.

Dig Silent Digital Simulation of electrical networks.

ERA Electricity Regulatory Agency

GIS Geographical Information System.

HPP Hydro Power Plant

KV Kilo Volt.

KVA Kilo Volt Ampere.

MEMD Ministry of Energy and Mineral development.

REA Rural Electrification Agency

SCADA Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition.

UEDCL Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited.

UETCL Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited.

VFB Vurra Feeder Breaker.

WENRECo West Nile Rural Electrification company.

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Contents

Approval i

Declaration iii

Dedication v

Acknowledgment vi

Abstract vii

Acronyms viii

List of figures x

List of tables xi

1 Introduction 1
1.1 Project background . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.2 Problem statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.3 Justification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.4 Project Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1.4.1 Main Objective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1.4.2 Specific Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1.4.3 Research scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

2 Literature Review 4
2.1 Mini Grid and Main grid Concept . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
2.2 Overview of Uganda’s Energy Sector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.3 Fault Analysis of Power Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2.3.1 Significance of fault analysis[9] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2.3.2 Fault Analysis Solution Techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2.3.3 Measures to reduce on the fault current levels . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.3.4 Consequences of increased fault current . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.4 Related work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
2.5 Case Study; Wenreco Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

ix
3 Methodology 13
3.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3.2 Data collection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
3.3 Modelling and simulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
3.4 Protection equipment upgrade and coordination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
3.5 Project presentation and report documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

4 Models and Simulations 16

4.1 Data Collected . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
4.1.1 Lay out structure of the WENRECo network . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
4.1.2 Data concerning the relays on the network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
4.1.3 Feeders’ data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
4.1.4 Data concerning auto reclosure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
4.1.5 Causes of faults on the network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
4.1.6 Consequences of faults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
4.1.7 Efforts to reduce on the faults and their consequences . . . . . . . 19
4.2 Developed models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
4.2.1 WENRECo model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
4.2.2 Main grid section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
4.2.3 Observation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
4.2.4 Main grid extension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
4.2.5 Combined network. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
4.2.6 Observation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
4.2.7 Measures for fault current reduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

5 Network Protection 28
5.1 Island operation mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
5.2 Protection reconfigured in island mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

6 Challenges, Recommendation and Conclusion 31

6.1 Challenges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
6.2 Conclusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
6.3 Recommendation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
6.4 Future Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

References 32
6.5 Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

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List of Figures

2.1 Network fault example. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

2.2 A faulted network. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.3 Illustration of a faulted condition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.4 A figure showing an exact equivalent to the faulted condition. . . . . . . . 9
2.5 Variation of fault current with location of series reactor . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.6 Variation of fault current with location of series reactor . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.7 The reach of the relay for a sample distribution network. . . . . . . . . . . 11

4.1 WENRECo single line diagram. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

4.2 WENRECo distribution model. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
4.3 Main grid section. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
4.4 Combined network. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
4.5 Reduction in fault current at different buses with use of a series reactor. . . 25
4.6 Reduction in fault MVA at different buses with use of a series reactor. . . . 26

5.1 Nuisance tripping in island mode operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

5.2 Protection reconfigured in island mode operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
5.3 Protection in grid connected mode operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

6.1 The very low water levels of River Nyagak showing reduction in waterlevel
from the brown line. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
6.2 The channel that leads to the generation station. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

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List of Tables

4.1 Table showing the estimated load on the feeders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

4.2 Table showing data concerning the auto re closure settings . . . . . . . . . 19
4.3 Simulation results for WENRECO distribution model. . . . . . . . . . . . 21
4.4 Simulation results for Main grid. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
4.5 Simulation results for Combined model. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

5.1 New relay settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

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Chapter 1: Introduction
This chapter provides a brief project background, background of electricity supply, project
objectives and also explains the problem being faced in the West Nile region.

1.1 Project background

In the early years of development, Power supply was basically in a form intended to supply
local individual units that were controlled by government or individual entities. In other
words the power supply system consisted of multiple but distributed generation plants.
However, recent past studies and findings show that an integrated system is more effective
and economic, hence reliability and economic benefits with large scale grid interconnec-
tion.

West Nile Rural Electrification Company is the sole generator and distributor of elec-
tricity in the West Nile region operating a 33 KV distribution island grid[1]. The primary
objective for its construction was to supply power to its small population in West Nile
which had no connection to main grid due to the long distances and insignificant power
demand before. Its generation capacity is 3.5 MW with a load/demand of 4.6 MW and
confronted with many challenges such as; inadequate generating capacity with a supply
deficiency of 1 MW, poor performance of the networks, failure to introduce renewable
energy resources to the grid, increased demand on the network, ageing infrastructure,
etc. Nyagak dam in Zombo has a reduced spinning reserve margin requirement. West
Nile has since 2007 experienced load shedding which can be avoided if there is distributed
generation which isn’t the case due to limited renewable sources.

The fact that Nyagak river is seasonal and its water is used for irrigation in the Congo
region greatly reduces on the volume of water required to turn the turbines hence gener-
ation shut down during dry seasons, load shedding and also increased demand compared
to the generated capacity, Propositions are being made to connect this network to the
main grid which stops in Moyo through Yumbe for purposes of power reliability [2]. REA
master plan for West Nile shows an 8% economic growth rate and load forecast of 9.3
MW by 2023 which means that expanding the distribution system will enable achieve
full electrification coverage in the West Nile by; Intensifying the existing grid network,
Expansion of off-grid service to areas that cannot be economically served by the grid,
Expansion of grid resources for example connection to main grid which currently stops
in lira for 133 KV transmission network or 33 KV distribution network which stops in
Moyo which is the primary aim of this project. It’s therefore evident that modern power

1
systems have developed over a long period of time due to increase in the efficiency and
economies of scale based on current society depending much more on provision of not
only cheap but reliable electricity. This has facilitated the connection of small generating
plants on the large national electricity grid.
However, connection to the main grid results in an increase in the fault current magni-
tudes since it becomes a multi-source power system when small grids are connected to it
hence need for a fault analysis [3]

1.2 Problem statement

Connection of WENRECo grid to the main grid results in an increase in fault current
levels which can negatively affect network equipment as well as people’s lives under fault
conditions.

Fault current, like normal load current, flows from electricity generation source, through
the network to the fault point and is only limited by network impedance. It’s typically
high in areas of high demand where the network is strong, such as large urban areas in
close proximity to generation.

1.3 Justification
Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL) has a plan to connect the
main grid to the WENRECO network to cater for the supply deficiency in the region.
Connection of the main grid to this network will result in increase in fault currents requir-
ing technical compatibility and operational coordination of the network power equipment
more especially the over current protection equipment i.e. relays, circuit breakers, auto
reclosers, etc.

WENRECo network will be connected to the main grid through Lira- Gulu-Moyo-Yumbe
33 kV distribution line as the region waits for extension of the main grid through the
Lira-Gulu-Nebbi-Arua 132 kV transmission line that will most likely be commissioned
before 2022.

Proper selection and coordination of over current protection equipment requires knowl-
edge about fault currents flowing through the network and this is done through network
simulations of both WENRECo and section of the main grid to determine the maximum
and minimum fault current magnitudes that may flow after interconnection and thus a
need for fault analysis.

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1.4 Project Objectives

1.4.1 Main Objective

The primary objective of this research project is to do a fault current analysis when a
mini grid is connected to the main grid.

Generally, this work aims at evaluating the potential effects of mini grids on the operation
of electric power system with particular reference to both transmission and distribution
system.

1.4.2 Specific Objectives

1. To model and analyze the WENRECo network and the main grid section.

2. To analyze the effects of faults on the combined network.

3. To evaluate measures on how to reduce the fault impact on the WENRECo network.

1.4.3 Research scope

This research work focuses on WENRECo connection to main grid and is limited to the
steady state concerns of short circuit studies, fault FMA and protection coordination.
Below is my thesis Organization;

1. Chapter 1 Introduction.

2. Chapter 2 Literature Review.

3. Chapter 3 Methodology.

4. Chapter 4 Modelling and Simulation.

5. Chapter 5 Protection

6. Chapter 6 Conclusion and Recommendations.

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Chapter 2: Literature Review
This chapter gives an understanding of the main grid and mini grids, some related work
and brief information concerning the case study, protection and all associated literature
of the project.

2.1 Mini Grid and Main grid Concept

A mini grid is an electricity distribution network which can be operated either in isolation
or grid connected mode. Its power is derived from renewable energies such as hydro, solar,
wind, geothermal, etc. some of the examples include[4]; Mobuku 1(5.4 MW), Mobuku II
(14 MW), Mobuku III (10.5 MW) all located in Kasese district currently being operated
in grid connected mode, mini plants e.g Jacobsen in Namanve, solar plants in Soroti and
Tororo can be made mini grids, WENRECo in west nile, etc.

These small grids are a practical and cost effective solution for areas which don’t have
access to the main grid and are endowed with potential energy sources as mentioned
above [5] and they also help to improve power reliability to areas with poor voltage pro-
files especially when the mini plant generated capacity is significant. The joint energy
and environment project installed a micro grid for over 102 households in Kasese with
solar, potential hydro sites as documented by MEMD are over 33 hydro sites including
Kakira, kinyara sugar works power plants which generate power for factory use and then
the excess is supplied to the main grid.

Mini grids can appear in two different forms i.e. renewable and non-renewable. Renewable
technologies include solar PV, geothermal plants, hydro plants and others. Non-renewable
technologies include cogenerations, combustion turbines and micro turbine. Exploitation
of renewable technologies is important in combination with the mini grids which are in-
dependent entities with regards to the main grid.

A main grid is defined as a network comprising power producers and consumers con-
nected together by transmission and distribution lines [6]. It consists of generators that
produce electricity, HV transmission lines that transfer electricity over long distances,
distribution lines that deliver the electricity to consumers, substations that connect the
pieces to each other and the energy control centers to coordinate the operation of the
components.

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2.2 Overview of Uganda’s Energy Sector
The installed capacity of Uganda’s electricity generation increased to 1177 MW in March
2019 following the commissioning of the Isimba HPP that added 183 MW to the National
Grid[7] with 1031.5 MW supplied from Hydro power and the remaining generated from
other sources like solar, peat, geothermal and biomass. Also the Government of Uganda
through the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development is constructing more power
stations like Karuma (600 MW) which is yet to be commissioned in December, Sindhiya
in bundibuggyo, Ayago, etc. However the government plans to upgrade the existing trans-
mission lines to a voltage of 220 KV ring around Lake Victoria in conjunction with Kenya
and Tanzania and 400 KV for Karuma Kawanda line for bulk energy transmission.

In 1999, Uganda Electricity Board was dis-bundled leading to separation of generation,

Distribution, Transmission and regulation of the energy in the country[8]. Under the
regulatory bodies, REA and ERA were formed hence opening up the energy sector to
private sector investment and participation in the energy generation, distribution and
transmission however leaving the transmission for voltages above 33 KV under the con-
trol of Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited. With the increased private
sector involvement in the country’s energy sector, Uganda has registered approximately
54% of power generation coming from independent power producers all clearly licensed
and under the regulation of ERA.

In 2001, the Government launched the Rural Electrification Strategy and Plan (RESP)
for the years of 2001 to 2010. However due to delayed implementation, the policy did
not meet the expected results which included failure increase in the use solar PV in rural
areas, low percent increase in rural access to electricity among others.

Following this, the electrification strategy and plan 2013-2022, was published by Ru-
ral Electrification Agency. This strategy was supported by the World Bank to ensure
that the rural electrification program, is implemented through introducing a sales based
performance subsidy scheme that also provides business development support to private
PV dealers, which is expected to increase PV sales. Uganda is blessed with abundant
sunshine hence has a solar irradiation of 1.5 kWh/m2/day which makes it possible to
produce electricity from sunlight. In the past years, solar energy has been used on a small
scale and off grid majorly in rural areas which have a large portion of Uganda’s population
yet they have the least access to electricity.

5
2.3 Fault Analysis of Power Systems
A fault in a power network is any failure that interferes with the normal flow of current to
the load.Consideration of overcurrent and overvoltage values in electricity grids is one of
the important issues that has been investigated in some papers. Developments of power
systems necessitate annual investigation and observation of fault levels in all power sub-
stations. Also, it is necessary to analyze cut-off capacity and operation type of power
switches to replace them with new switches of higher cut-off power or to add equipment
such as fault current limiters to existing grids.

The most important factors of increased short circuit level could be categorized as follows:

1. Increased generation power of new power plants;

2. Increased number of communicative circuits at high and low power side;

3. Deployment of higher voltage class;

4. Increased substation capacities.

2.3.1 Significance of fault analysis[9]

1. To determine current magnitude present during due to a fault.

2. To determine the highest current value to ensure safety of devices during a fault.

3. To determine the maximum current the circuit breakers need to interrupt in order
to appropriately rate them.

2.3.2 Fault Analysis Solution Techniques

Circuit models used during a fault allow the network to be shown as a linear circuit.
There are two methods for solving for fault currents;

1. Direct/ simple method: This uses pre fault conditions and constants to solve internal
machine voltages, apply the fault and solve directly. Here, loads are not considered
and i’ts represented as (IEC60909/VDE0102)

2. Complete/Superposition: Here the fault is shown as two opposing voltage sources

and they are solved by superposition by;

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 • First voltage just represents the pre-fault operating point

• Second system only has a single voltage source

An example of fault analysis using direct method[10]

For the following network assume a fault on the terminal of the generator; all data is
per unit except for the transmission line reactance, a line with impedance 0.5, another
transformer with impedance 0.1 and a motor with impedance 0.1.

Solution

Figure 2.1: Network fault example.

The faulted network as a per unit diagram is as below;

Figure 2.2: A faulted network.

To determine fault current;

We need to first estimate the internal voltages for the generator and motor.

7
For the generator;
100 < −18.2
S= = 1 < −18.2 (2.1)
100
Then
Ea = 1.0932 < −118.21 (2.2)

For the motor

T erminal voltage = 1.02 < 0 − (0.9804 < −18.2) × j0.3 = 0.9692 < −16.75 (2.3)

Internal voltage = 0.9692 < −16.75 − (0.9804 < −18.2) × j0.2 = 0.9839 < −28.21 (2.4)

Then fault current

1.0932 < −118.21 0.9839 < −28.21

If = ( + = j6.233 (2.5)
j0.20 j0.5

Using superposition method

Faulted condition

4.PNG
Figure 2.3: Illustration of a faulted condition.

Exact equivalent to faulted condition

Here the fault is shown as two equal but opposing voltage sources, each with a magnitude
equal to the pre-fault voltage.

The total voltages and currents are equal to the sum of the pre-fault condition (represented
by 1) and the conditions with the single voltage source at the fault location represented

8
 Figure 2.4: A figure showing an exact equivalent to the faulted condition.

Figure 2.5: Variation of fault current with location of series reactor

by 2) Pre-fault condition. Pre fault implies the fault was not there before thus If 1 is equal
to zero

At the fault location;

Ig = Ig1 + Ig2 (2.6)

Im = Im1 + Im2 (2.7)

If = If 1 + If 2 = If 2 + 0 (2.8)

9
 Figure 2.6: Variation of fault current with location of series reactor

2.3.3 Measures to reduce on the fault current levels

1. Series reactors; these are current limiters installed at various points on the network
to resist against increasing of short circuit current while encountering a fault by
increasing the impedance of the system.They can also compensate for network re-
active power thus improving on the transmission capacity of the lines. It is cheap
and easy to use than any other method.

2. Network splitting; This is referred to as controlled separation of the system into

islands of load with matched generation at a proper splitting point by use of an
open point. Proper splitting implies that incase of load shedding or generator drop-
ping, each island of load and generation will still remain in balance without causing
network instability[11].

3. High impedance transformer; the impedance can be used as a current limiting char-
acteristic of a transformer. It is used for determining the current limiting capacity
of the transformer so as to protect the primary of the transformer. The impedance
is used for determining the maximum short circuit current and this helps in the
sizing of fuses, circuit breakers that will act if that rated short circuit current is
exceeded.

4. Use of superconductive switches; Superconductor coil has superconductivity char-

acteristic and causes very low resistance and voltage drop at the mentioned tem-
perature. But after occurrence of a short circuit and excessiveness of current from
given range that is called critical current, related coil heats and after transit state
it shows high resistance, so fault current decreases[12].

2.3.4 Consequences of increased fault current

The impact of increase in fault currents is explained as below [10];

10
1. Nuisance tripping

Increase in fault current on the grid can change fault response by the protection
system for example if a DG is installed near a substation and a fault takes place on
the feeders other than that were located on this DG, the breaker of this DG may
also trip due a current emanating from the DG to the fault point.

2. Failure of sectionalizers to operate when they should because the mini grid keeps a
line energized and desensitization of breakers and re-closers due to unplanned mini
grid currents.

3. Change in coordination of relays. The protection system may lose coordination

when a DG is installed and this is illustrated below; prior to installation of the
distributed generation DG1, if a fault takes place at point 1, fuse Fa should act
before fuse Fb . This can be because of the upstream default on the sub feeder.
When DG1 is placed on the sub feeder, the fault current emanates from DG1 to the
fault point 1 and Fuse Fb may open before fuse Fa if the difference between fault
current 1, IF 1 and fault current 2 IF 2 is less than the margin shown in the figure
below. The difference between IF 1 and IF 2 correlates to characteristics of DG1.
Thus the fuses lose coordination for the case of installed DG.

Figure 2.7: The reach of the relay for a sample distribution network.

11
2.4 Related work
Researchers at U.S Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory also studied
the impact of micro grids on the main grid and suggested the following measures on how
to minimize grid interconnection problems; defining the micro grid generation within the
power market, updating distribution protection systems, improving monitoring for power
quality and others [13].

Mini grids have also been implemented in other areas of Zambia, India, Canada and
thus increased electrification. A study was also done by Patrick Mugisha who holds a
MSc in Renewable Energies from the University of Oldenburg (West Germany) and is
currently a lecturer at Makerere University and also works under TECO (Technology
Consults) as a consultant on electrical and energy matters on the integration of mini
grids to the distribution and transmission network and he used the UEB network and
mobuku integration [14].

2.5 Case Study; Wenreco Network

WNST is home to approximately 2.3 million people living in about 405,000 households.
It’s made up of six districts i.e. Nebbi, Arua, Zombo, Yumbe, Koboko and Machara, of
which Arua, Koboko and Nebbi are the primary population centers. WENRECo network
currently operates as an isolated generation-distribution network with respect to the main
grid. It was initially supplied by diesel generator located in Ewuata (Arua district) which
had a capacity of 1.5 MW but due to a mechanical problem, it was shut down and
its premises are currently used as a switching station. Current generation-distribution
network is supplied by a 3.5 MW Nyagak I mini hydro power station located in Paidha
(Zombo district) having two generators each with a capacity of 1.75 MW. WENRECo
operates 560 km of 33 kV medium voltage line and 26,875 kVA of distribution transformer
capacity that serves 13, 9071 consumers. In addition, REA has approved grid expansion
projects with a total of 626 km of 33 kV line[15].

12
Chapter 3: Methodology
3.1 Introduction
This section precisely answers two main questions i.e. How was data collected or generated
and how it was analyzed to achieve success of the project? However, the chapter com-
mences with data collection and analysis, modelling of WENRECo network and section
of the main grid, three phase fault simulation and analysis, upgrading and coordinating
protection relays on the WENRECo network, presentation to a panel of examiners and
lastly report writing and documentation.

3.2 Data collection

It’s defined as a systematic approach to gather and measure information from a variety of
sources to get a complete and accurate picture in the area of interest which in our case is
WENRECO. Data collection methods to be used include; surveys of the network premises,
interviews with the technical or concerned people, using questionnaires, browsing on the
internet [16]. Based on the literature, first the following data shall be needed to model
the simulation model in Dig SILENT power factory software that can be used to analyze
faults on the WENRECo network:

1. Lay out structure of the WENRECo network (Single line diagram for the WENRECo
network).

2. Feeders’ data (Feeder length and the amount of MW energy supplied to these feeder)

3. Metering points

4. Loads on each of the distribution transformer.

5. Number of transformers, their ratings and connected loads

6. Conductor data (line lengths and types of conductors used)

7. Amount of energy supplied to the distribution network from Nyagak generation

plant

Secondly, data concerning HV and MV transmission networks in the areas of interest shall
be obtained from UEDCL (UMEME) and UETCL offices located in Kampala and also
some of the data concerning our case study shall be gotten from the UEDCL offices, this
data shall be analyzed for the next step.

13
3.3 Modelling and simulation
Software such as PSS/E, MATLAB, DIgSILENT, ETAP, and PSCAD are used build, anal-
yse and to calculate load flows, contingency analysis, fault analysis and reliability[17].Dig
SILENT Power Factory software is deployed in this project to develop models and sim-
ulate both the WENRECo. grid and a section of the main grid because it has been
confirmed by Lund et al. (2005), Kaberere et al. (2005) and other authors for being a
versatile, educative and commercial power system program. Besides, Dig SILENT has
set standards and trends in power system modelling, analysis and simulation for more
than 25 years (Dig SILENT, 2013). Its advantages include; overall functional integration,
applicable in modelling of generation, transmission, distribution and industrial grids, and
the analysis of these grids’ interactions. This software provides a library of standard
electrical components or models such as transformers, machines, and transmission lines.
Therefore network models and three phase short circuit simulations are to be executed
using Dig SILENT Power Factory Version 15.1.7 and thereafter fault analysis done and
lastly protection assessed and coordination if there is need.

3.4 Protection equipment upgrade and coordination

Assessment of the relay settings through various fault simulations on the different parts
of the network to check whether they work appropriately. Discrimination by both time
and current is considered because, this method involves use of the relay with an inverse
time overcurrent characteristic. The evolution of this method came as a result of the
limitations imposed by independent use of either time or current coordination. The relay
has two settings which are basically the time setting and the plug setting. The time
setting decides the operating time of the relay while the plug setting decides the current
required for the relay to pick up. The plug setting multiplier is defined as;

P rimary Current during f ault, i.e .F ault Current

P SM = (3.1)
Relay Current setting × CT Ratio

The time multiplier setting is defined as;

T
T.M.S = (3.2)
Tm

Where, T - is the required time for operation. Tm - is the time obtained from the relay
characteristics curve at TMS 1.0 and using the Plug Setting Multiplier (PSM) equivalent
to the maximum fault current. Objectives of Coordination are; to determine the charac-
teristics, ratings, and settings of overcurrent protective devices, Minimize the equipment
damage, process outage costs and network shutdowns, protect personnel from the effects
of these failures. Many times, it is required to discriminate between faults in front of
the breaker and faults behind the breaker. This is possible only if we take into account,

14
not only the magnitude of the current but also its phase with respect to the voltage at
the relay location. In such cases, the protection is known as the directional over-current
protection.

3.5 Project presentation and report documentation

This is considered to be the final stage of a research project where the tangible products
of the research effort are presented to a panel of examiners through an oral and visual
display and where need be publish it in the engineer’s journal.

15
Chapter 4: Models and Simulations
4.1 Data Collected

4.1.1 Lay out structure of the WENRECo network

The single line diagram of the network is a 33 KV network diagram and it shows the in-
formation below; Transformer ratings, Conductor types, the conductor lengths, Switching
points and Auto reclosure, Drop out fuses, Surge arrestors.

16
17
Figure 4.1: WENRECo single line diagram.
4.1.2 Data concerning the relays on the network

The relays are all overcurrent and follow the normal inverse curve. The normal inverse
curve is one where by as the current increases the time of operation of the relay decreases.
This is the most effective type of relay because it helps to avoid the disadvantages of the
independent time and current relays.
Relays are meant to operate in the sequence that the relay next to the fault operates first
before any other relays operate. Thus this means that they are supposed to be coordinated
well. This data will help in the setting of the relays in on the network.

4.1.3 Feeders’ data

Feeder length and the amount of MW energy supplied to these feeder, metering points.
The WENRECO network has two feeders from the Nyagak power station i.e. Vurra feeder
and Nebbi feeder.

Table 4.1: Table showing the estimated load on the feeders

Feeder Area AL(KW) Peak load(KW) Data source

F1 Paidha-Nebbi 400 450 NFB Nyagak
F2 Zombo 200 300 VFB at both ends
F3 Arua 1200 1400 AFB Arua swutching station
F4 Koboko 100 400 ARCB Manibe
F4 Yumbe 300 200 ARCB namulondo-Nebbi
F5 Pakwach 1200 500 ARCB Koboko
F6 MTC 200 100 NFB Arua switching station

4.1.4 Data concerning auto reclosure

These operate like circuit breakers though their difference is that they try in the line
for a certain number of times according to the settings before an actual circuit breaker
operates. They can be placed anywhere on the network un like circuit breakers. On the
WENRECo model, they will be represented as circuit breakers because there is no auto
reclosure symbol.

18
 Table 4.2: Table showing data concerning the auto re closure settings

Description Koboko,Pakwach and Omyer Yumbe and Panyamur

Ip > 30A 20A
tp > 0.07s 0.05s
In >> *2 *2
tp >> 0.08s 0.07s
It > 12A 10A
tF > 0.07s 0.05s
IE >> *2 *1.5
tF >> 0.07s 0.05
ISEF > 5A 4A
tSEF > 8s 6s
SEF trips to lock out 3 2
Trips to lock out 3 2
Reclose 1 2s 0.5s
Reclose 1 3.5s –

Loads on each of the distribution transformer, Number of transformers, their ratings and
connected loads, Conductor data (line lengths and types of conductors used), Amount of
energy supplied to the distribution network from Nyagak generation plant.

4.1.5 Causes of faults on the network

1. Electricity poles falling and this can be as a result of line over loading or lack of
enough stand in the ground.

2. Birds resting on the lines thus leading to single line to ground faults.

3. Lightning striking the lines thus leading to over voltages on the lines.

4.1.6 Consequences of faults

1. Insulation failures for example Windings to earth insulation failure.

2. Failure of the wired fuse link to blow after a line short circuit.

3. Failure of the breakers to trip after cable faults.

4.1.7 Efforts to reduce on the faults and their consequences

1. Replacement of the poles that fallen.

19
 2. Improving on the earthing.

3. System improvement this includes improving on the protection grading.

4. Diversion of some customers so as to reduce on the lines that being overloaded

(phase balancing).

5. For the cases of transformer failures, they are replaced and for some cases earthing
is re done with surge arrestors.

4.2 Developed models

After thorough literature review and with the help of data collected, both WENRECo and
main grid networks were modelled as shown below. Different trnsmission and distribution
line distances were obtained with the help of Arc GIS.

Single line diagram of the WENRECo mini grid the networks was modelled in DigSILENT
power factory simulation software version 15.1 The effective step-down transformer KVA
values were then scaled down using a scaling factor and then represented as loads. The
line parameters such as type, resistance per kilometer and distance of the line from one
transformer to the next were used as inputs. The transformer types and ratings were also
input.

20
4.2.1 WENRECo model

Figure 4.2: WENRECo distribution model.

Table 4.3: Simulation results for WENRECO distribution model.

Bus bar Fault current(KA) Fault MVA

Nyagak 0.35 19.79
Arua 0.24 13.73

This model consists of Nyagak generating station in paidha Zombo district having two
generators rated 6.2 KV, 1.75 MW connected to a 33 KV step up transformer which is
the distribution voltage. This voltage is fed to six feeders as shown above by the different
colour codes with feeder 1 and 2 being the main feeders. It has a switching station at
Arua where the thermal generators were previously installed and it lastly shows point of
connection of the main grid. The feeders of this terminate with auto-reclosures or circuit
breakers that are located on the substation.

21
4.2.2 Main grid section

Data concerning the main grid was obtained from UETCL through interaction with the
people under the planning department. The information included the line parameters in-
cluding the line types, lengths, resistance per kilometer and distance of the line from one
transformer to the next the generator data. These were used as inputs in the simulation
model.

An external grid was connected at Lira substation since in practice it’s not possible to
determine the generating source since there are three of them supplying to Lira Substation.

An external grid is connected to Lira substation which steps down the voltage from

Figure 4.3: Main grid section.

132 KV to 33 KV, its then transmitted to Gulu and then lastly Moyo where the main
grid stops.

22
 Table 4.4: Simulation results for Main grid.

Bus bar Fault current(KA) Fault MVA

Lira 41.7 1000.4
Gulu 21.9 680.9
Moyo 5.4 54.7

4.2.3 Observation

Simulations for WENRECo and the main grid indicate that; the fault currents and fault
MVA are high near the generating sources i.e. Nyagak and external grid and low at points
far away from the source.

4.2.4 Main grid extension

This project doesnt consider feasibility study since it was already carried out by UETCL.
It involves constructing a 132 kV transmission line of about 314 km to connect Lira Sub-
station to Arua through Gulu and Nebbi. Extension of the Main grid to the west nile
region will increase electricity supply to the region, evacuate excess power from Nyagak 2
Hydro power plant as agreed between UETCL and UEGCL in the Power Purchase Agree-
ment and also increase grid reliability due to the n-1 resilience but into the transmission
line (double circuit line will be used for the project) with an investment cost estimated
at US$82.8 million. However, the project is expected to be completed by 2022 yet there
is urgent need for generation expansion in West Nile [7].

4.2.5 Combined network.

Table 4.5: Simulation results for Combined model.

Substation Fault current(KA) Fault MVA

Lira 42.8 1007.4
Gulu 22.1 682.9
Moyo 10.2 66.7
Yumbe 7.8 54.8
Arua 3.4 29.5
Nyagak 4.0 30.8

23
 Figure 4.4: Combined network.

4.2.6 Observation

After connection of WENRECo to the main grid, results indicate that;

1. The fault currents increased after the mini grid was connected.

2. The fault MVA increased.

3. The voltages at the buses reduced.

4.2.7 Measures for fault current reduction

After connection of WENRECo to the main grid, results indicate that;

1. Case 1- series reactor at F1.

2. Case 2- series reactor at F2.

3. Case 3- series reactor on both F1 and F2.

4. Case 4- series reactor at the line connecting the main grid to WENERECo network.

Explanation Case 1: Low fault reduction due to less feeder loading thus connecting
a series reactor on it causes insignificant change.
Case 2: Relatively good reduction on faults currents because this feeder is over loaded as

24
 Figure 4.5: Reduction in fault current at different buses with use of a series reactor.
Percentage change; Case1=0.2, Case2=0.31, Case3=0.38, Case4=0.41.

compared to feeder one. It also supplies power to Arua switching station supplying feeder
3 and feeder 4. Thus in other words, feeder 2 carries the load of feeder 3 and feeder 4.
Case 3: Significant fault magnitude reduction for series reactors connected on both feeders
from nyagak.
Case 4: More significant fault reduction because the main grid contributes high fault
currents under fault conditions.

25
26
Percentage change; Case1=0.17, Case2=0.21, Case3=0.253, Case4=0.318.

Figure 4.6: Reduction in fault MVA at different buses with use of a series reactor.
 Using;
√
F aultM V A = F aultcurrent × 3 × V oltage (4.1)

Areduction in fault current reduces fault MVA and still case 4 presents improved results
compared to other cases.

27
Chapter 5: Network Protection
5.1 Island operation mode

Figure 5.1: Nuisance tripping in island mode operation.

Simulation of a fault at the fault point shown in model above shows nuisance tripping
due to the relay tripping settings lagging network fault magnitudes and this is due to the
big load connected. Secondly, some relays have the same settings meaning that they all
sense a fault thus simultaneous cascade tripping of the circuit breakers.
This is shown above with blue for network de energized and black for network energized.

5.2 Protection reconfigured in island mode

Demand(M W )
Relay pickup current = √ (5.1)
3 × 33k × 0.9

and t = 0.14 × T DSI 0.02 − 1 (5.2)

pickup current
The relay pick up currents have to be converted to per unit values (p.u) from Sb ase
,

28
 Figure 5.2: Protection reconfigured in island mode operation.
Basing on load forecast by Rural Electrification Agency (REA) master plan for the West
Nile region every after two years per feeder, New settings in terms of pick up current and
tripping time for which the relay should operate were re-calculated. Faut simulation at
the same point only de-energized only the affected portion.

Where; Power factor is 0.9, TDS is time dial setting, I is the relay pick up current,
Sb ase=73.48. The CT ratio is 100:1.

29
 Table 5.1: New relay settings.

Feeder Area Ip(A) tp(p.u) IE(A) tE(p.u) Data Source

F5 Pakwach 30 0.07 12 0.056 ARCB Koboko
F1 Paidha - Nebbi 25 0.2 10 0.104 NFB- nyagak
F4 Yumbe 15 0.07 10 0.05 ARCB namulondo - Nebbi
F4 Koboko 20 0.14 12 0.12 ARCB manibe
F3 Arua 60 0.24 35 0.24 AFB Arua switching station
F2 Zombo 15 0.29 8 0.13 VFB at both ends
F6 MTC 0.08 10 0.07 NFB Arua switching station

Figure 5.3: Protection in grid connected mode operation.

30
Chapter 6: Challenges, Recommen-
dation and Conclusion
In this chapter,conclusions are drawn, challenges and recommendations are aslo provided.

6.1 Challenges
Long distance to our case study was tiresome and also expensive tansport fares hindering
make frequent visits.

Difficulty in case study survey due to high transport costs.

Inadequate data due to confidentiality of the people we interacted with.This caused delays
in project progress but however due to persistence we were able to get them.

Determination of individual loading of the distribution transformers on the grid posed

a great challenge since monitoring is done at the generating station in nyagak.Therefore
an assumption that all the transformers were equally loaded at any given time was made.

6.2 Conclusion
This project commenced with data collection done through site visits,literature and in-
teraction with technical personells. Thereafter developed the WENRECo model and a
section of the main grid in Dig silent version 15.1, three phase short circuit simulations
done independently for both models,results were later tabulated and fault analysis shows
high fault magnitudes on the main grid model as compared to the WENRECo. Model.

Secondly, both models were combined and still a three phase short circuit simulations
and fault analysis indicates that connection of WENRECO to the main grid increases
fault level magnitudes ie. Fault current and fault MVA. This is due to the introduction of
an additional generating source to the grid which increses current flow to the fault point
during fault conditions. Connection of a series reactor between WENRECo and the main
grid helps to reduce the fault magnitude.

Lastly, relay tripping settings had to be modified to respond to the increased fault current
magnitudes and network discrimination was achieved for both island and grid operation
for WENRECo.

31
6.3 Recommendation
Implement SCADA. A supervisory and Control system should also be used to improve
monitoring for power quality and automatically record network data which may be helpful
in future during system analysis.

Connect a series current limiting reactor to the line connecting the WENRECo network
to the main grid to help to reduce on fault magnitude.

In grid connected mode, the operators at Nyagak should increase excitation to increase
voltage so as to take on the entire load and therefore meet the requirements of the main
grid at the point of common coupling. This is referred to as synchronization.

6.4 Future Work

There are many faults that occur on power networks but Fault analysis in this project
focussed on the worst case scenario which is a three phase fault due to its high fault
magnitude and these are considered symmetrical faults.

However, Unsymmetrical faults for example Single Line to ground with a 60%-75% of
occurrence, Double line to ground and other transient faults can also be analysed to
achieve a more effective protection system.

32
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[3] . A. Odipio, ”Report On Public Education And Awareness For Protection Of River
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[4] .-G. R. E. D. Benon Bena Manager, ”Project Opportunities in Off-Grid Renewable

Energy,” Rural Electrification Agency-Uganda, Kampala, 2016

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33
[15] arasanth Karoda and Aryadevi Remanidevi Devidas,”Studying the impact of AC
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34
6.5 Appendix

Figure 6.1: The very low water levels of River Nyagak showing reduction in waterlevel
from the brown line.

35
Figure 6.2: The channel that leads to the generation station.

36