A novel framework for restoration technique of an industrial microgrid using black start units

Summary Microgrids are considered a reliable option for its ability to work autonomously during the event of faults. With widespread blackout, microgrid itself may experience blackout and hence, fails to support the customers. For system operators, the selection of an appropriate black start unit and procedure is of utmost importance. A fast and reliable black start unit will reduce vulnerability in grid operation. This paper proposes a novel black start methodology for a microgrid where the appropriate Distributed Energy Resource (DER) is utilized as black start unit for the recovery at the planning phase. In order to validate the findings, the proposed methodology is implemented on an industrial microgrid. Results show that bottom‐up restoration with solar photovoltaic systems having Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) can offer fast and faithful restoration in comparison to other DER units. Selection of a reliable and appropriate Black Start Unit (BSU) for an industrial Microgrid is a challenging task. This paper proposes a unique methodology that will assist the system planners in selection process of a BSU through restoration time check of different BSU and post fault scenario of Top Down and Bottom Up approach.