A Comparative Study of Fixed Speed and Variable Speed Wind Energy Conversion Systems Feeding the Grid

In the early development of the wind energy, the majority of the wind turbines have been operated at constant speed. Subsequently, the number of variable-speed wind turbines installed in wind farms has increased. In this paper, a comparative study of fixed and variable speed wind turbines incorporating squirrel cage induction generator take into consideration all realistic constraints has been presented. These two systems are modeled and simulated using Matlab. The variable speed induction generator system has been modeled using power electronic converters and vector control technology combined with peak power extraction technique (PPET) enabling the system to run at the most optimal speed. The results are presented for 55kW induction generator, and variable speed operation is highlighted as preferred mode of operation.