Simple wind energy controller for an expanded operating range

Small-scale, stand-alone wind energy systems are an important alternative source of electrical energy, finding applications in locations where conventional generation is not practical. Unfortunately, most of these systems do not capture power at every wind speed-especially low wind speeds which are low in power but can be very common. To address this problem, the authors have proposed a power electronic converter, designed for efficiency, simplicity and ruggedness. A simple feedforward technique is presented using discrete components and minimal sensors. Test data are presented, indicating that the technique eliminates the standard 'cut-in' wind speed and expands the operating range of a wind turbine.