FACTS Devices for Reactive Power Compensation of Wind Energy Conversion System

Abstract

Voltage control and reactive power compensation in a distribution network with embedded wind energy conversion system (WECS) represent main concern of this paper. The WECS is of a fixed speed/constant frequency type that is equipped with an induction generator driven by an unregulated wind turbine. The problem is viewed from time domain responses of the system to different wind speed changes. Being disturbed by a variable wind speed, the WECS injects variable active and reactive power into the distribution network exposing nearby consumers to excessive voltage changes. In the FACTS-based solution approach, the Unified Power Flow Controller (UPFC) is used at the point of the WECS network connection to solve technical issues related to voltage support and series reactive power flow control.