Real-Time Implementation of a STATCOM on a Wind Farm Equipped With Doubly Fed Induction Generators

TLDR

Voltage stability is critical for wind farms with doubly fed induction generators during grid faults. This study evaluates the use of a static synchronous compensator to enable continuous operation of a DFIG‑driven turbine during such faults. Coordinated control of the DFIG rotor‑ and grid‑side converters with the STATCOM was designed and tested on a real‑time digital simulator. The results demonstrate that the STATCOM enhances transient voltage stability, allowing the turbine generator system to stay online during grid disturbances.

Abstract

Voltage stability is a key issue to achieve the uninterrupted operation of wind farms equipped with doubly fed induction generators (DFIGs) during grid faults. This paper investigates the application of a static synchronous compensator (STATCOM) to assist with the uninterrupted operation of a wind turbine driving a DFIG, which is connected to a power network, during grid faults. The control schemes of the DFIG rotor- and grid-side converters and the STATCOM are suitably designed and coordinated. The system is implemented in real-time on a real time digital simulator. Results show that the STATCOM improves the transient voltage stability and therefore helps the wind turbine generator system to remain in service during grid faults.