Microgrid frequency regulation using wind turbine controls

Abstract

This paper proposes a control system that uses wind energy to regulate the frequency of an islanded microgrid. The model used in both computer and hardware simulation includes a scaled representation of a microgrid that uses a permanent magnet AC (PMAC) machine and a variable resistance load. The wind turbine is represented by a DC machine as the prime mover connected with a PMAC generator. As the microgrid load changes the frequency of the system changes and the proposed control system regulates power from the wind turbine as necessary to correct the frequency and maintain a nominal value. Results of both computer simulation and hardware implementation show that wind energy can be used to maintain microgrid frequency in islanded operation.