In the dynamic world of renewable energy, wind power stands as a beacon of sustainability, and recent advancements are pushing its boundaries even further. A groundbreaking study, led by Habib Benbouhenni from the National Polytechnic School of Oran, Algeria, has introduced a novel approach to enhance the power quality of dual rotor wind turbines. This research, published in Scientific Reports, could revolutionize how we harness wind energy, making it more efficient and reliable.
The study focuses on contra-rotating wind turbine (CRWT) systems, which use doubly-fed induction generators (DFIG). These systems are known for their high efficiency but have traditionally relied on indirect vector control (IVC) methods, which can be less effective when system parameters change. Benbouhenni and his team have developed a new IVC approach that employs super-twisting control to eliminate instantaneous errors in the DFIG power, significantly improving transient performance.
“The designed IVC employs a super-twisting control to eliminate the instantaneous errors of the DFIG power using the direct calculation of the control voltage required by the rotor,” Benbouhenni explained. This innovation not only enhances the system’s response time but also ensures a constant switching frequency, facilitating the design of harmonic AC filters.
The implications of this research are vast. By minimizing torque fluctuations, active power, and current, the new approach could lead to more stable and efficient wind turbines. In tests, the designed control reduced torque fluctuations by 93%, active power by 97%, and current by 98% compared to the conventional IVC approach. Additionally, the response time for reactive power, active power, and torque was reduced by up to 99.05%, 98.60%, and 98.60%, respectively.
“This approach minimized the harmonic distortion of the stream by ratios estimated at 18.02% and 16.22% compared to the conventional IVC approach,” Benbouhenni noted. These improvements were validated through both digital simulations using MATLAB and hardware-in-the-loop simulations, demonstrating the approach’s validity, durability, and competence.
The commercial impact of this research could be transformative for the energy sector. More efficient wind turbines mean lower operational costs and higher energy output, making wind power an even more attractive option for energy providers. As the world continues to shift towards renewable energy sources, innovations like this could play a crucial role in meeting global energy demands sustainably.
The study, published in Scientific Reports, highlights the potential of advanced control techniques in enhancing the performance of wind turbines. As the world continues to innovate in the field of renewable energy, this research could pave the way for future developments, making wind power more reliable and efficient. The future of wind energy looks brighter than ever, and this breakthrough is a significant step forward in that journey.
