Control of a Wind Energy Conversion System based on an induction generator fed by a matrix-converter

In this paper the control of a grid-connected wind energy conversion system (WECS) based on a sensorless vector controlled cage induction machine fed by a matrix converter is presented. The machine is vector controlled using a model reference adaptive system (MRAS) observer to estimate the rotational speed and rotor position. The electrical torque of the induction generator is regulated to drive the WECS to the operating point where the wind turbine aerodynamic efficiency is maximised. Stability issues related to the operation of a WECS connected to the grid using a matrix converter are also discussed in this work. Experimental results, obtained with a 2.5 kW prototype are presented and fully discussed in this paper.