Computer aided optimization via simulation tools of energy generation systems with universal small wind turbines

Abstract

This paper considers the general issues in the project and the optimization of energy generation systems using small universal wind turbines, suitable in Distributed Generation (DG) and computer aided optimization for a better exploitation of wind source. Optimization in this field reveal to be more and more important because the local generation and consumption of electrical power, even for grid connected generators can suffers for unevenness of wind source exploitation, also in terms of wrong directions and in not regular wind flows. Computer aided design and optimization of small plants may give significant improvements in the development of the wind source also in accordance with the projections of future energy policies that foresee a significant increase of the wind generated energy for the future market. The effectiveness of computer aided optimization tools is illustrated in the present paper with the exposition of two case studies. In the first of them a Wind Electrical Energy Generating System is moved by a Modular Multiple Blade Fixed Pitch Wind Turbine coupled with an asynchronous wound rotor generator. In the second case study the optimization regards a Savonius wind turbine and a PM synchronous generator with particular reference to the development of wind source for the wind turbine and the reduction of saturation and of harmonic content in the emf for the electrical machines.