Development of an electrical generation scheme using wind energy

[Truncated Abstract] This thesis describes investigations carried out in the development of a wind powered generation system suitable for interconnection with a power grid ... The simplicity and flexibility exhibited by the induction machines in providing electromechanical energy conversion make it the most favoured choice for wind-powered systems operated in parallel with an existing powers system. Although not as common as the ‘squirrel cage’ induction machine, the slip-ring type has several attractive features in providing constant-frequency ac power when driven from a varaible-speed source such as a wind turbine. The fundamental energy conversion properties of the induction machine system are studied in order to determine the suitability of these systems for constant-frequency variable-speed electric power generation. Two distinct control policies are formulated: (i) optimising power from the wind when the generator is connected to an ‘infinite’ bus bar and, (ii), scheduling a constant output power irrespective of fluctuations in wind speed when the generator is operated in parallel with a ‘weak grid’.