In the dynamic world of renewable energy, wind power has emerged as a formidable player, but it’s not without its challenges. As wind turbines proliferate, so do the complexities they introduce to power grids. One of the most pressing issues is low-frequency oscillations, which can destabilize the system and lead to blackouts. Enter Lei Yang, a researcher at the Electric Power Research Institute, Yunnan Power Grid Co., Ltd., in Kunming, China, who has been delving into innovative solutions to this problem.
Yang’s recent study, published in ‘Zhongguo dianli’ (China Electric Power), focuses on the integration of Doubly Fed Induction Generators (DFIGs) with Static Var Generators (SVGs). The goal? To create a robust control strategy that can suppress these low-frequency oscillations and enhance the stability of power systems.
DFIGs are a type of wind turbine that can decouple the control of active and reactive power, making them a valuable tool for grid stability. Yang’s research takes this a step further by proposing a method that combines DFIGs with SVGs. “By adopting an additional damping control strategy, we can change the active and reactive reference current of the device,” Yang explains. This dynamic output power can then offset power increases, effectively suppressing oscillations.
The research involved building a control system model of DFIG and SVG connected to a 4-machine 2-area system. Additional damping control signals were added to manage the active power of DFIG and the reactive power of SVG. The results were analyzed using the Prony method, which revealed that the method could provide positive damping and accelerate the stabilization of oscillation waveforms.
The implications of this research are significant for the energy sector. As wind power continues to grow, so does the need for advanced control strategies that can mitigate the risks of low-frequency oscillations. Yang’s findings suggest that by leveraging the capabilities of DFIGs and SVGs, power systems can become more stable and resilient. This could lead to more reliable and efficient integration of wind power, reducing the risk of blackouts and improving the overall performance of the grid.
The commercial impacts are also noteworthy. Power grid operators and wind farm developers could benefit from this research by adopting more sophisticated control strategies. This could lead to cost savings, improved grid stability, and enhanced reliability of wind power integration. As the energy sector continues to evolve, innovations like Yang’s will play a crucial role in shaping the future of renewable energy.
Yang’s work highlights the importance of ongoing research in this field. As wind power becomes an increasingly vital component of the global energy mix, the need for advanced control strategies will only grow. By pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with DFIGs and SVGs, researchers like Yang are paving the way for a more stable and efficient energy future.
