In the rapidly evolving landscape of offshore wind power, a groundbreaking advancement in modular multilevel converter (MMC) technology is poised to enhance efficiency and reliability, potentially reshaping the future of renewable energy integration. Researchers, led by Rui Li from the School of Electrical Engineering and Automation at Harbin Institute of Technology in China, have developed an innovative control scheme that promises to optimize MMC performance in offshore wind power systems.
The study, published in the English-language journal “IEEE Access,” introduces a dynamic control strategy that adjusts the number of inserted submodules (SMs) per phase in real-time, based on capacitor voltage fluctuations. This precise tracking of modulation voltage reference not only improves system performance but also intrinsically suppresses circulating currents, reducing the need for arm inductance by a staggering 95.6%.
“By dynamically adjusting the number of inserted submodules, we can achieve a more precise and efficient control of the MMC system,” explains Li. “This not only enhances the overall performance but also reduces the physical components required, leading to cost savings and improved reliability.”
The research further optimizes submodule sequencing by leveraging historical switching states, achieving a remarkable 42.6% reduction in switching frequency. This reduction is crucial for minimizing wear and tear on the components, extending their lifespan, and reducing maintenance costs. Additionally, the proposed scheme includes an arm energy balancing control to ensure precise energy equilibrium across the MMC arms, further enhancing system stability and efficiency.
The effectiveness of this strategy was validated through detailed simulations using PSCAD/EMTDC software, modeling an offshore wind farm integrated via a point-to-point high voltage DC (HVDC) link. The results demonstrate significant improvements in system performance, paving the way for more efficient and reliable offshore wind power integration.
The implications of this research are far-reaching for the energy sector. As offshore wind farms continue to expand globally, the need for efficient and reliable power conversion technologies becomes increasingly critical. The enhanced control scheme proposed by Li and his team could play a pivotal role in optimizing the performance of MMC systems, making offshore wind power more competitive and sustainable.
“This research represents a significant step forward in the development of MMC technology,” says Li. “It addresses key challenges in offshore wind power integration and offers practical solutions that can be implemented in real-world applications.”
As the energy sector continues to evolve, innovations like this are essential for meeting the growing demand for clean, renewable energy. The work of Li and his colleagues not only advances the field of MMC technology but also contributes to the broader goal of a sustainable energy future. With the findings published in “IEEE Access,” the research is now accessible to a global audience, inviting further collaboration and development in this critical area.