Electrical protection in geothermal power plants

Abstract

In order to ensure that a geothermal power plant is reliable and efficient, an electrical protection system design is of the utmost importance. The electrical protection system integrates a variety of equipment into the different systems found in such a power plant. A successful project includes an engineering team and a project manager, with each party possessing a deep understanding of the general process of each area necessary for the construction of a geothermal power generation plant. The purpose of this report is to provide a representative overview of the electrical protection system in a geothermal power plant project, as well as to serve as a basis for performance, organization and results for future projects in El Salvador. The report clearly identifies the location of the electrical protection system in a power plant, focusing on the protection relays, and describing the main processes to achieve an adequate system of protection. Furthermore, schematics and general concepts applied in geothermal power plant studies have been incorporated as well. The information and dates obtained are based on documents from the Ahuachapán and Berlin power plants in El Salvador and the Hellisheidi power plant in Iceland.