Reduced order observer for permanent magnet synchronous generator in wind energy conversion system

This paper presents an approach to develop a simple reduced speed observer for Permanent Magnet Synchronous Generator (PMSG) in Wind Energy Conversion System (WECS). The speed and rotor position estimation of the PMSG are obtained by only measuring phase voltage and current. Maximum wind energy extraction is achieved by running the wind turbine generator in variable-speed mode. The rotor speed is allowed to vary in sympathy with the wind speed by maintaining the tip speed ratio to the value that maximizes aerodynamic efficiency. Advantages of this mechanical sensorless control strategy for maximum power estimation are demonstrated by digital simulation of the WECS.