Modelling arrays of wave energy converters connected to weak rural electricity networks

This paper describes a modelling framework developed in Matlab/Simulink that has been used to study, analyse and improve the network integration of Wave Energy Converters (WECs). It presents and discusses a generic, time domain, resource-to-wire model that can be used to explore the effects of: increased device numbers, array size and physical positioning; and the adjustment of control parameters. The three-dimensional wave field is modelled as non-stationary, with statistical characteristics that are extracted from measured wave elevation time series to simulate increasingly realistic sea conditions. Each heaving buoy has high-pressure oil power take off with on-board energy storage, driving Doubly Fed Induction Generators (DFIGs). The results obtained from simulations using this model are used to demonstrate the overall effects of storage on real power production, and the effects of imaginary power control on network voltage profile. The opportunities for improved network integration are identified and discussed.