Fixed-pitch type 1 wind turbines with large droop slopes for diesel hybrid mini-grids

Renewable energy sources can help reduce many issues related to fuel consumption and environmental impact of diesel based electricity generation in autonomous power systems (mini-grids). However, the fluctuating nature of wind energy can make the power demanded from the diesel gen-sets and grid frequency vary more, increasing unit cycling and leading to power quality and maintenance problems. Sophisticated wind turbines (WTs) can minimize these issues but they are costly. This paper investigates the potential of inexpensive fixed-pitch type 1 WTs to assist with frequency regulation and power balancing in storage-less wind-diesel hybrid mini-grids.