Step and Search Control Method to Track the Maximum Power in Wind Energy Conversion Systems A Study

Abstract

A simple step and search control strategy for extracting maximum output power from grid connected Variable Speed Wind Energy Conversion System (VSWECS) is implemented in this work. This system consists of a variable speed wind turbine coupled to a Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator (PMSG) through a gear box, a DC-DC boost converter and a hysteresis current controlled Voltage Source Converter (VSC). The Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) extracts maximum power from the wind turbine from cut-into rated wind velocity by sensing only by DC link power. This system can be connected to a micro-grid. Also it can be used for supplying an isolated local load by means of converting the output of Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator (PMSG) to DC and then convert to AC by means of hysteresis current controlled Voltage Source Converter (VSI).