Added Value of Power Control in Improving the Integration of Wind Turbines in Weak Grid Conditions

Abstract

For economical reasons, wind turbine systems must be located in favourable sites generating a higher pro- ductivity. These are often located in areas with weak electric grid infrastructures. The constraints related to this type of grids limit the penetration levels of wind energy. These constraints are mainly related to power quality in the grid as well as the economical aspects of the project. In this study, we take into account the slow voltage variations and the flicker phenomenon. The models used are based on the development of a set of relations derived from engineering knowledge related to both technical and economical points of view. The maximal penetration level of a fixed speed wind turbine system is determined for a given grid. The power control has been investigated to improve wind turbine system integration. Obtained results show the necessity to adapt technological choices to the requirements of weaker grids. Penetration levels and wind turbine cost may be greatly improved using variable speed systems

The ideal power curve of small wind turbines from field data

“…No turbulence effects were considered by Arbaoui et al (2010), who found less than 3% difference between the AEP (as measured by complying with IEC recommendations) and their model based on technical and economical issues; the difference soars to 10% when considering the least productive velocities (less than 4 m/s).…”

Perspectives for Implementing Distributed Generation in Developing Countries through Modeling Techniques

“…These conditions are remarkable in old facilities and represent a problem for remote and nonpriority users connected to the grid or during peak consumption hours . The main researches have focused on forecasting or controlling the effects of the interconnection of new technologies to the grid , as well as anticipating the benefits of including new contributors to the energy supply. ,,− The second one is the interaction on the microgrid context. It implies synchronization with different small producers which use DE for interchanging energy utilities.…”

“…The technologies are dependent on ambient conditions (solar irradiation, wind speed, and water flow). As a consequence, the main objectives addressed for the works are increasing energy generation to ensure meeting the supply, ,,,, using storage technologies, commonly batteries, for reducing the gaps between generation and consumption, ,, and reducing the flicker effect ,,− or interacting with external carriers . The use of biofuels considers the efficiency of generation technologies for reaching a trade-off between the cost of treatment and production of fuel and the environmental benefits and accessibility of resources. − ,, The primary considerations for using fossil fuels, as was mentioned above, are the costs and availability of the resources.…”