Comprehensive Evaluation of Protection Strategies in Power Systems with High Inverter-Based Resources Integration

D.M. Larruskain(1), José M. Guerrero(1), U. Villena(1), Asier A. De Miguel(2,3), Igor Gabiola(2), Alain Sanchez-Ruiz(3) 1. Department of Electrical Engineering, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Bilbao, Spain 2. Tecnalia, Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Derio, Spain 3. Department of Electronic Technology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain 2026-06-27

Abstract

Inverter-based resources pose significant challenges to power systems, including the lack of electromechanical inertia, the inherently limited fault current contribution of power electronic interfaces, the harmonic injection due to their inherent switched behaviour and the strong dependence on active control loops that define their steady-state and dynamic operation. This paper presents a structured and implementation-oriented contribution to protection strategies of converter‑dominated power systems. It subsequently synthesises recent advances in converter‑aware protection concepts, emphasising strategies that enhance fault detectability, selectivity and robustness. Key implementation constraints, interoperability issues and interactions with grid-code requirements are highlighted, pointing to the need for validated, scalable and standards‑compliant solutions capable of supporting reliable protection in future power systems.

Key words: Control, Converter, Electrical Faults, Inverter-Based Resources, Protection.

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