To address the challenge that traditional protection schemes become unsuitable after distributed generators (DGs) are integrated into distribution networks

a novel current differential protection method is proposed for active distribution networks based on fault-phase interline current. First

considering the control strategies of various DGs during low-voltage ride-through

the fault characteristics of both T-connected and bus-connected DGs are analyzed. The variation patterns of phase currents and fault-phase interline currents measured by protection devices on both ends of the line are revealed with respect to fault location. Second

a new current differential protection criterion is constructed using the interline current information from both line terminals

leveraging the distinction between internal and external faults. On this basis

the calculation methods of the operating and restraining quantities are improved to reduce dependency on communication synchronization. Finally

a 10  kV active distribution network model built in PSCAD validates the reliability and effectiveness of the proposed method. Simulation results demonstrate that the method is simple and practical

and compared with traditional positive-sequence current-based differential protection methods

it is less affected by DG outputs under different DG capacities

fault locations

and fault types.