Model predictive control for wind turbine power boosting

We consider the operation of a wind turbine with the goal of maximizing the total energy generated while respecting temporary boost commands for the power delivered to the grid and limits on the rotor speed and generator power preceding a boost. Power boosting capability is required of wind turbines in a number of grid codes in order to help stabilize the grid. We transform the problem to one with linear dynamics and convex constraints and implement the optimal control problem in a receding horizon manner. We demonstrate how an intuitive formulation can control the turbine during the boost and the subsequent recovery phase such that the kinetic energy stored in the wind turbine rotor is not to drained to a critical low level. We provide extensive closed-loop tests with an industrial wind turbine simulator.