Minimizing Energy Loss by Coupling Optimization of Connection Topology and Cable Cross-Section in Offshore Wind Farm

Abstract

The cable cross section of an offshore wind farm power system is conventionally determined on the basis of the maximum current carrying capacity. However, this criterion cannot be matched and optimized with connection topology, which may lead to a large overall resistance level in the topology, thereby causing severe energy loss. In this pursuit, the present work envisages the establishment of a coupling optimization method of connection topology and cable cross-section planning for the first time. Based on this method, the power system of a small discrete wind farm is optimized and its results are compared with the results of the traditional design methods. The results indicate that an optimal matching of connection topology and cable cross section can be achieved using the proposed method. Besides, the optimal topology obtained uses more branches, and the large cross-section cables are reasonably used on the large-current cable segments, thus dramatically reducing the energy loss and minimizing the total cost of the power system. The proposed method is very versatile and suitable for the optimization of power systems containing any number of wind turbines and substations. Moreover, it can be combined with any evolutionary algorithm.

Keywords

• offshore wind farm
• coupling optimization method
• connection topology
• cable cross-section