Efficiency comparison of two possible grid connected small wind turbine systems

Abstract

This paper presents expected efficiency studies on two possible grid connected small wind turbine systems. One of the systems is based on Permanent Magnet Generator (PMG) and the other system is based on Wound Rotor Induction Generator (WRIG). Experimental test benches for both systems are implemented using Wind Turbine Emulator (WTE) and Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) control strategy. The procedure for calculate the Power Conditioning System (PCS) losses, energy capture and energy loss is presented. The expected efficiency of the systems is investigated for wind distributions at eight sites in Newfoundland and Labrador. It is shown that a WRIG-based system could provide 5% higher efficiency in contrast to a PMG-based system.