Simplified Current Sensorless Maximum Power Extraction for Wind Energy Conversion Systems

Abstract

The penetration of wind energy conversion systems (WECSs) have been substantially expanded over the last few years. Maximum Power Extraction (MPE) is of the most efficient and reliable techniques for controlling the power converter of the generator. This research aims to present a simplified MPE that retains the benefits of the conventional MPE while significantly reducing the control loop complexity. By taking into account the wind velocity and disturbances, the proposed approach reformulates machine equations and controls the voltages and currents on $dq$ -plane to drive the wind turbine at optimum performance. Furthermore, it does not require current and voltage measurements and waives the need for intricate tuning operations. The proposed simplified MPE controller’s speed and power tracking performances are assessed through many simulations and experimental tests in various scenarios, and the results are compared to the vendor’s datasheets as well as the field-oriented control method to prove its excellence.

Keywords

• Maximum power extraction
• voltage source converter
• variable speed wind turbine