Application of permanent magnet synchronous generators within small-scale hydropower systems

Abstract

In the new millennium, the demand for electric power is expected to increase more rapidly. Hydroelectric power plants using hydro potential of small rivers are becoming one of the key issues in the energy sector. Hydro energy is one of the most important renewable energy sources and the only source of energy that is currently cost-competitive to fossil fuels. Small hydro power plants can provide clean electric energy and bring electricity to remote agricultural areas, which are not near transmission lines. This paper presents a small-scale hydropower system based on a permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) and AC/AC power converter. The system can be used in agriculture for irrigation pumps, greenhouse heating and ventilation, and plant lighting.

Keywords

• small hydropower
• pmsg
• ac/ac converter
• pwm control